| VOLUME 29 | * * All Arts News On the Web * * | September 11, 2025 |
ArtBits always features a calendar of the goings on of Franklin County artists. Check out these events around Franklin County. Each issue includes the entire text of our weekly newspaper column. STUFF YOU SHOULDN'T MISS
Franklin County's arts and music gatherings bring new opportunities, gossip, "show-and-tell" and occasional workshops. There are also booked and acoustic Open Mic Nights that feature music, readings, and more from the best new artists in Vermont.
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ST. ALBANS--Osher Lifelong Learning Institute begins the Fall weekly program series as Mary Danko discusses Public Libraries are Being Tested: The First Amendment & Intellectual Freedom in the Greg Brown Lodge at Hard'ack today at 11 a.m. This talk will examine intellectual freedom as the fundamental right of library patrons to access, explore, and express information freely is challenged. Ms. Danko is the Director of Fletcher Free Library and President of NE Library Association. HUMANITIES
This semester will offer eight lectures, mostly on Thursdays through November 6. A St. Albans series membership is $40 individual/$70 couple for all eight events, or $10 per program if purchased individually. Call 802.656.8407 or email for registration questions. Click here for more info.
September 14-20 is National Arts in Education Week. The arts drive student success across every measure: academic achievement, workforce readiness, wellness, and equity. ARTS IN EDUCATION
Worried about academic achievement? How about Performance-Based-Pay? A strong arts program correlates to higher test scores and graduation rates. A mechanic needs more than nuts and bolts and an accountant needs more than "'rithmetic." Business leaders say creativity and collaboration skills are essential. The arts help build those.
ONLINE--On this day of remembrance, visit the Artists Registry of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The online database and digital gallery of artistic work was created in response to the events of September 11. The database serves as a resource for the artistic community, scholars, journalists, and everone impacted by the events of that day. The collected works range from creations by seasoned professionals to novice practitioners. Click here to visit. ART ON THE WALLS
ST. ALBANS--The Artist In Residence collection spotlight is on Fairfield artist Kristina Bolduc. The art and fine craft cooperative features paintings, fiber arts, stained glass, sculpture, lamps, pottery, folk art boxes, scarves, hats and more by 38 Franklin County and surrounding area artists. It is owned and operated by the artists and sponsors. The gallery on South Main Street is open Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click here or find them on Facebook for more info.
JEFFERSONVILLE--Bryan Memorial Gallery congratulates William Gotha for the Alden Bryan first place Best in Show Award for Transitions. It is in Land & Light & Water & Air and on Facebook. The gallery has exhibits of the landscape painters of New England. The main showcase in Jeffersonville is open Wednesday-Sunday 11 - 4 and the Stowe Gallery is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 - 5. Appointments are available. Call ahead (802.644.5100) to schedule or click here for more info.
ENOSBURG--Cold Hollow Sculpture Park has named multidisciplinary artist Garfield Morgan a 2025 Artist in Residence. His work transforms discarded materials and used garments through painting, distortion, and repurposing. Mr. Morgan will be at the Park July 12 - 26. During his residency, visitors can engage with his creative process through interactive workshops and presentations. Click here for more info.
MILTON--The Milton Artists' Guild holds the fifth annual Art & Stroll in Milton Square on Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m! There will be vendors, music, a free raffle, and a scavenger hunt. The MAG art center and gallery showcases the work of over 145+ artist members in Milton Square behind the Milton Post Office. They are open Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., and closed Monday and Tuesday. Click here or find them on Facebook for more info. ART FOR SALE
FAIRFIELD--Hearthside Handcrafts meet at Bent Northrop Memorial Library on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Fiber arts and crafting enthusiasts connect to share skills and create memories on the second Saturday of each month. Click here for more info. ART YOU CREATE
ST. ALBANS--Spotlight Vintage hosts block print artist pop-up to Block Print Your Own Clothes with Sam Burns on Saturday at 11 a.m. Bring your own clothing (solid colors and natural fibers work best) or choose from their selection of vintage garments to create a unique design. There are dozens of stamps to choose from. The cost is $15. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ENOSBURG--Autumn Adventures, the Enosburgh Recreation new fall program for seniors, begins with Paint and Tea with Victoria in the Emergency Services Building on Saturday at 12 noon. Victoria will lead a step-by-step process to create your very own painting. Stay to socialize and enjoy a tea or coffee. The free program is for ages 60 and over. Registration is not required by highly recommended. Click here or email to sign up.
FRANKLIN--Franklin County NRCD and the Franklin Watershed Committee offer Lake Carmi Community Art Making at the Halcyon Hills Farm on Sunday at 1 p.m. Painting, cyanotype printing, collage-making, and the opportunity to tour a local Franklin farm all combine to celebrate natural spaces through community art. Click here for more info.
MORRISVILLE--River Arts hosts the in-person, "Paint & Sip: Sunflowers in Bloom" with Jen Volansky on Friday at 6 p.m. Get step-by-step guidance and plenty of room to explore to create a single bloom, a gathered bouquet, or a wide-open field of flowers. The cost is $65. Click here to enroll and for more info.
NORTH HERO--The joy of community dancing to lively music continues at Island Arts with International Folk Dancing with instructor Lesley Alpert at the North Hero House Pier on Friday at 9:30 a.m. DANCE
All dances are taught. No partner required. No experience required, and new students are always welcome. Bring your water bottle and wear comfortable, flat shoes. Classes will continue most Fridays through September 26. Admission is free, but donations to Island Arts are appreciated. Call 514.476.3418 to register (drop-ins are also encouraged) or Click here for more info.
ST. ALBANS--It is Classic Movie Night (and Matinee!) at the St. Albans Free Library with the recent Knives Out starring Daniel Craig on Thursday at 6 p.m. and reprised at the Friday matinee at 1 p.m. The 2019 mystery's eleven-member ensemble cast comes together over the death of a best-selling writer played by Christopher Plummer in this modernized "cozy." The free presentation includes the show, the popcorn, cocoa, and tea. This showing is an after-hours event. Please arrive before the doors close at 6 p.m. Click here for more info. FILM
MILTON--Social Sundays continue at the Milton Artists' Guild Art Center with free weekly art classes for families at MAG on Sunday at the new hours, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Each week offers a different project. Stay for 30 minutes or the whole two hours. Click here for more info. WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
SOUTH HERO--Worthen Library hosts a monthly SoulCollage Workshop beginning on Monday at 3:30 p.m. The space for the intuitive self to play with imagery and expression dives into cutting, pasting and listening to the inner voice and wisdom. All are welcome for a time of "inner-listening and being in community."
MORRISVILLE--River Arts begins a three-week DIY Cosplay Creations workshop series with Abby O'Sullivan on Tuesday at 5 p.m. A costume designer and creative maker, Ms. O'Sullivan will guide participants through the entire process--concept, construction, and final showcase--using affordable, accessible materials like thrifted clothing, cardboard, felt, glue, and more. The cost is $100 for the series. Click here to register and for more info.
Thursday, September 11 ON STAGE LIVE
GEORGIA--The Flynn and GEMS present Playing Fields featuring the animal operetta Les Giraffes by Compagnie Off at the Georgia School soccer fields today at 6 p.m. The whimsical interactive back to school party with the street theater company has an operatic diva leading a parade of seven towering red giraffes. The bumbling keepers, musicians, and performers transform the field into a fantastical savannah. Admission is free. Click here for more info.
Thursday-Saturday, September 11-13
ESSEX JUNCTION--On Tap starts a weekend of music with Bob Cotton tonight at 6 p.m. two shows on jerborned Friday night, WD-40 at 5 p.m., and then the Jerband returns for late night music starting at 9 p.m., plus the Last Kid Picked live on Saturday night at 9 p.m. Call 802.878.3309 or email for more info. Click here to reserve a table.
Friday, September 12
COLCHESTER--Justice 3 plays their "final show at 'The Puppy' for 2025" as the live and free Friday Night Live Music season in the Outback winds down at the Spanked Puppy on Friday at 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SWANTON--The Swanton Free Public Library hosts Open Mic 2025, an evening of live music and poetry and more on Friday at 6 p.m. Click here for more info.
ST. ALBANS--14th Star presents B-Town for a night of rock & roll and blues live in The Room on Friday at 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SHELDON--The Abbey Friday Night Music Series often has live performances on Friday about 6:30 p.m. The series continues with George Murtie in the Pub this week. Reservations are suggested. Find them on Facebook for more info.
WINOOSKI--Tim Brick is live at the Dumb Luck Pub with a solo acoustic show on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SHELDON--Summer Music at Grace presents Uncle John's Band at Grace Church on Friday at 7 p.m. The Franklin-based band plays all things rock and folk-rock, from "Allmans to Zevon." The eclectic series at Grace Church is wheelchair accessible. All are welcome. "A great evening of rollicking music is guaranteed or your freewill donation back!" Find them on Facebook for more info.
ESSEX JUNCTION--Laura Fedele-Rasco returns to Sparky's with "all your favorite songs, from Noah to Neil," live on Friday at 8 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SOUTH BURLINGTON--It's "Mega Night" at the Old Post as the Phil Abair Band with Keeghan Nolan and Quadra come together on Friday at 7 p.m. on the outdoor stage if the weather agrees. Find them on Facebook for more info
Friday-Sunday, September 12-14
SOUTH HERO--The Blue Paddle Bistro has a double header of music with Waves of Adrenaline on Friday. Then Sergio Torres returns with a variety of songs on Saturday. Music starts at 5 p.m. Click here for more info.
NORTH HERO--Hours at the Pier Bar may be winding down but there is still live music. Singer-songwriter Jim Branca and Tom Buckley play gospel, soul, blues, jazz, funk, swing, and folk on Friday and the Lloyd Tyler Trio takes over on Sunday. Music starts at 5:30 p.m. Find at the North Hero House on Facebook for more info.
NORTH HERO--Bravo Zulu Lakeside Bar has had live music all summer long. The Blue Rock Boys perform on Friday and 90 Proof plays the last dance to celebrate the end of summer on Saturday. Music starts at 6 p.m. The "the newest hidden gem of the Lake Champlain Islands" is at Shore Acres where you can boat in or drive in. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ST. ALBANS--The Taphouse at Mill River has shows on Friday and Saturday nights in September. Roger Giroux plays Friday and Jerborn lights the place on fire live on Saturday. Music starts about 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
JERICHO--The Jericho Cafe and Tavern fills the weekend with Live Music in September. The Duncan McLeod Trio plays Friday. Bob Gagnon performs live on Saturday night. Music starts at 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ST. ALBANS--Twiggs often has shows on Friday and Saturday nights. This week they host Cooper, Bob Recupero, returns on Friday and Ryan Hanson plays live on Saturday night. Music starts about 6:30 p.m. Call 802.524.1405 or find them on Facebook for more info. Click here to book a reservation or to visit the art on the walls.
Saturday, September 13
ST. ALBANS--Northwest Farmers Market fills Taylor Park with live music, handmade crafts, locally grown food, prepared foods, free kids activities on Saturday from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Rusty Bucket plays to the CVOEO playgroup this Saturday. The market and the music continue every Saturday through October. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ESSEX--Black Flannel Brewing presents Uncle John's Band in the Biergarten on Saturday at 2 p.m. The "local rock band with international appeal" plays rock, folk, bluegrass, and pop, primarily from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ST. ALBANS--St. Albans father-daughter duo Molly & Mike McCarthy go live on the Forever Young Stage at Spotlight Vintage on Saturday at 2 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ENOSBURG--Cold Hollow Sculpture Park presents Astral Underground for a special concert on Saturday at 4 p.m. The local jazz trio of Margaux Simmons, flute, vocals; Ben Maddox, keyboard, guitar; and John Notaro, drums, percussion; will perform Soundscapes and Landscapes, an exploration of the intersections between music, art, and nature.
STOWE--The Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall Summer Music Series fills Saturday night with Amerikana Blue at 5:30 p.m. Click here for more info.
FRANKLIN--The Dick Wright Pub will open an hour or so late because UJB is playing at Black Flannel. The Pub is otherwise back on "winter" hours, Wednesday-Saturday, 5 - 10 p.m.
ALBURGH--The Alburgh Oasis Outdoor Music Venue takes a Detour on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. BYOB. Admission is $10 at the door or $15 for limited, reserved, premium table seating. Find them on Facebook for more info.
Virtual music and events continue this week. ALMOST LIVE ON STAGE
Local writer DonnaRae Menard continues the weekly read with Episode 7 from her St. Albans mystery novel, Beneath The Fountain, on NW Access TV and on YouTube.
NW Access TV was there when Bad Horsey played the St. Albans Bay Farmer's Market on August 7, 2025. It's on YouTube.
ENOSBURG--The Enosburgh Public Library Reading & Discussion Group takes up The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester on Tuesday at 6 p.m. The tale of murder, madness and the incredible obsessions of James Murray and Dr. W. C. Minor, in the making of the Oxford English Dictionary. FRANKLIN COUNTY BOOKSHELF
HIGHGATE--The Highgate Library and Community Center continues the Muffin Monday Senior Social Hour on Monday at 10 a.m. The program is a community connect to brainstorm opportunities for senior support. Each week will also include coffee and tea, as well as fresh pastries. The program will run every Monday morning and is free for anyone 55 and older. Registration is mandatory as space is limited. Call the Library (802.868.3970) to register and for more info.
ST. ALBANS--The St. Albans Free Library Banned Books Group ("read them if you dare") meets to discuss Love Thy Neighbor by Peter Maas on Wednesday at 6 p.m. Mr. Maass went to the Balkans at the height of the war there, but A Story of War is not traditional war reportage. The Book Group meets after hours at the library. Please arrive before the doors close at 6 p.m. Click here for more info.
Good News!There are so many events around the region that we miss some of them.Be sure to check these calendars for what's happening near you ... |
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Music!Links to the Summer Music series in Franklin County |
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