Enjoy the Ride
August 4-8
The Addison County Fair & Field Days logo reads “Family Fun Since 1948,” a reminder that some Vermont traditions stand the test of time. Merrymakers flock to New Haven for the 78th year of classic summer fun, complete with all the usual draws — think midway rides, carnival eats, livestock competitions and agricultural exhibits — as well as newer offerings such as chainsaw artist demos and mini golf.
Tuesday, August 4, through Saturday, August 8, at the Addison County Fairgrounds in New Haven. Various prices. Info, 802-545-2557.
Berry Good
June 21
For more than 50 years, Middletown Springs Historical Society has paid homage to the sweet summer staple at its annual Strawberry Festival. Fans of the fruit dig into shortcake made from biscuits topped with whipped cream, ice cream and fresh berries, then take in a craft fair, live music, botanical art activities and an exhibit on late local polymath Dana S. Carpenter.
Sunday, June 21, 2-4 p.m., at Middletown Springs Historical Society. Free. Info, 802-235-2376.
Eye on the Sky
June 19-21
An annual tradition for decades, the Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival lifts spirits with aerial adventures, artisan vendors, a historic photo gallery, food offerings and live music from pop to zydeco — just in time for Father’s Day. Take Dad sky high into the wild blue yonder, or keep your feet on the ground while you gaze at the kaleidoscopic collection floating serenely overhead.
Friday, June 19, through Sunday, June 21, at Quechee Green Park. $5-25;
free for kids 3 and under. Info, 802-295-7900.
Old School
June 19-July 4
Weston Theater’s Young Company delivers a blast from the past with Schoolhouse Rock Live! at venues across southern Vermont. Based on the Saturday-morning TV series of animated shorts that originally ran in the 1970s and ’80s (parents, you remember!), kid performers delight with unforgettable — and educational — tunes, including “Conjunction Junction”and “I’m Just a Bill.”
Friday, June 19, through Saturday, July 4, at various southern Vermont locations. See website for dates, times and locations. Free; preregister. Info, 802-824-5288.
Living History
July 11 & 12
Don your breeches for the Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment, illuminating life in the independent republic of Vermont at the eponymous historic site. The 249th anniversary of the pivotal clash is honored with military demos, colonial activities and Sunday morning’s unmissable reenactment, featuring scores of authentically garbed soldiers in a patriotic display.
Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, July 12, 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.,
at Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site. $1-8; free for Green Mountain Passport holders and kids under 6. Info, 802-273-2242.
All That Glitters
July 18 & 19
Budding geologists explore a treasure trove of prehistoric relics and wonders at the Champlain Valley Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. The long-running showcase of Earth’s hidden riches dazzles with interactive identification tables, lapidary demos, and a vast market of crystalline formations and ancient specimens.
Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. $3-5; free for kids under 16. Info, vtbgmc@gmail.com.
Be Foolish
July 31 & August 1
Whimsical street performers take over downtown Burlington during the 18th annual free Festival of Fools, an assemblage of circus arts, live music and comedy. This year’s dynamic lineup of open-air entertainment includes a twilight concert by seven-piece global-pop outfit the Big Takeover, as well as the Queen City debut of internationally renowned juggler Jacob D’Eustachio.
Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, at various Burlington locations. Free. Info, 802-865-7166.
This article appears in Kids VT Summer Fun • 2026.
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