22 Things You Have To Do Before You’re An Official Vermonter

While brainstorming things someone would have to do before becoming an official Vermonter, my list kept stopping after #1:  Possess a Vermont Birth Certificate. But one item doesn't exactly make a list. That's right, if you weren't born in Vermont you'll always be considered a Flatlander. There's no two ways about it. However, it's inevitable that people will move in and out of the Green Mountain State, and there are certain things that should be experienced before Vermont truly becomes home. Let's take a look at a few rites of passage, shall we?

1. Survive a winter with wood as your only source of heat.

Easier said than done, but if you do it, you just may make it in Vermont.

2. Believe in Champ.

No matter what anyone says, you will always have hope that you'll spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster of Lake Champlain.

3. Wear plaid.

At some point, at least one article of clothing you own will be plaid.

4. Bid at a country auction.

Bonus points if the item is a mystery junk box.

5. Drive a tractor.

In this case, size does matter.

6. Start a snowblower.

While most Vermonters are still partial to the shovel, we can at least figure out how to start a snowblower (a.k.a. winter lawnmower).

7. That moment when you realize that the Fall daylight savings is the most depressing day of the year.

Sure, everyone likes to get that extra hour of sleep, but when it's dark at 4:30? Ugh.

8. Buy something on the honor system.

From farm stands to camping sites, you wouldn't even consider not paying for something under the honor system.

9. Put your high heels away for the winter.

You have appropriate footware in Vermont. Many put their heels away for life.

10. Go sledding.

No matter if you call it sledding or sliding, you've raced down the hill at record speed at least once.

11. Have a favorite winter sport.

Winter sports don't have to be extreme, but you do have something you enjoy doing outside in the cold weather.

12. Enjoy an outdoor hot tub in the middle of winter.

Don't knock it before you try it - it's delightful!

13. Pick a favorite swimming hole.

Even better - you've swam in a waterfall swimming hole!

14. Participate at Town Meeting Day.

Nothing gives you a sense of community like piling into the school gymnasium and voting on local matters.

15. Attend a big fair.

You go to both the Tunbridge World's Fair and the Champlain Valley Fair every year and you love it!

16. Visit the Shelburne Museum.

No matter how many times you've been, there is always something new to find.

17. Help out on Green Up day.

It takes a village, but we love our litter-free surroundings.

18. Head to the dump.

You've also been to a transfer station.

19. Help someone get their car out of the snow (or mud).

Many hands make light work.

20. Recycle!

If you don't recycle, please leave.

21. And compost, too.

It's better for the earth.

22. Know where the typical speed traps are located.

Both in town and on the highway.

What things do you think makes a person an honorary Vermonter?