🍁 VERMONT Day 2024 – Oct 12

🇺🇸 VERMONT Day ORIGIN & HISTORY

VERMONT Day appears to have originated as a grassroots celebration to honor Vermont’s heritage and is celebrated on the 12th Day in October. It’s a day to honor Vermont’s enduring contributions to American culture and history.

The term “Vermont” has an interesting origin. It’s derived from the French phrase vert mont meaning “green mountain”. It was given to the region particularly due to its lush Green Mountain range that runs through the state.

Early SETTLEMENT

Before European settlement, archaeologists have found that Native Americans lived on the land 13,000 years ago including the first people Abenaki, Mohican, Pennacook, and Pocomtuc tribes. Vermont’s history as a region began with the arrival of European settlers in the mid-18th century.

The explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1609 came to Vermont and laid claim to this region for France. Then in 1724 the British established the first permanent European settlement and claimed Vermont for themselves. France and England went to war in 1754 for nine years which Britain ultimately won giving them the Green Mountains.

Initially, this area was part of the land grants issued by the governor of New Hampshire, Benning Wentworth. Conflicting land claims arose when New York also asserted jurisdiction over the same territory, leading to disputes between settlers holding New Hampshire grants and New York authorities.

In response to New York’s attempts to exert control, a group of settlers formed a militia known as the Green Mountain Boys. Led by prominent figures like Ethan Allen and Seth Warner, they defended their land rights and resisted New York’s claims.

Vermont’s Struggle for INDEPENDENCE

England included Vermont in their New York territory after the colonies’ Declaration of Independence. In 1777, Vermont sought its own independence from New York under British rule and declared itself an independent republic, known as the Vermont Republic. This marked the first time a republic was created outside of the original 13 colonies.

The new republic established its own currency, postal service, constitution, and president even though the territory fought alongside the other colonies in the Revolutionary War. Over the next decade, the Vermont Republic sought recognition from the Continental Congress and neighboring states. However, its claim to statehood faced fierce opposition from New York.

Finally after the United States established its own independence, the situation was resolved on Friday March 4, 1791 when Vermont was admitted to the Union as the 14th state. Vermont’s entry to the Union marked the first time a new state joined the United States after the original thirteen colonies.

VERMONT STATE Motto

“Freedom and Unity”

⛰️ HOW to Celebrate & Observe VERMONT Day?

Not sure how to LOVE the day? We’ve got a few interesting ideas to consider that may help get you started.

Here are some activities that you can do on VERMONT Day!

💙 Learn Vermont’s Resilient HERITAGE

Dive into the rich history of Vermont by visiting museums, historical sites, or heritage centers. Take the opportunity to educate yourself about the pioneers, indigenous cultures, and significant events that shaped Vermont’s past.

💙 Explore Vermont MOVIE BACKDROP filming locations

Vermont has been a popular filming location for various movies and TV shows. Its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rustic settings have made it an attractive choice for filmmakers. Here are a few notable films and TV shows with scenes shot in Vermont:

• Baby Boom (1987): This comedy starring Diane Keaton features scenes shot in Vermont, showcasing its scenic landscapes and rural charm.
• Beetlejuice (1988): Some scenes from this classic Tim Burton film were shot in East Corinth, Vermont. The iconic covered bridge in the movie is the historic Sanborn Bridge in East Corinth.
• Dead Poets Society (1989): While the majority of this iconic film was shot in Delaware, a few scenes were filmed in Vermont, contributing to the movie’s New England prep school atmosphere.
• Ethan Frome (1993): The film adaptation of Edith Wharton’s classic novel was shot in various New England locations, including parts of Vermont, to capture the novel’s rural and wintry setting.
• The Spitfire Grill (1996): This drama film used several Vermont settings, including Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, to create the fictional town of Gilead.
• Hope Springs (2003): This romantic comedy starring Colin Firth and Heather Graham was filmed in various Vermont locations, including Woodstock.

💙 LISTEN to the sounds of Vermont’s Musical tapestry

Vermont has a vibrant & diverse musical scene producing renowned musicians and bands. The state encompasses a wide range of genres: from folk and bluegrass to bagpipe rock and jam bands. This iconic American rock band Phish was formed at the University of Vermont in Burlington in 1983. Phish is known for their improvisational live performances and dedicated fan base. Other great Vermont musicians include Grace Potter, JoJo, and the Gordon Stone Band.

💙 Visit unique FACTORY TOURS in the State of Vermont

Vermont offers a variety of local factory tours that provide fascinating insights into the state’s artisanal and manufacturing traditions. These tours can be both educational, entertaining, and an excellent way to learn about local industries and see how things are made.

Here are some factory tours you can visit in Vermont:

• Dakin Farm: Located in Ferrisburgh, Dakin Farm offers informative tours where you can learn about the traditional methods used to create Vermont smoked meats, including bacon, ham, and sausages. There’s also a maple syrup cannery. The tour allows you to witness the process and culminates in a tasting of their delicious smoked products with exhibits suited to children and adults.
• Maple Grove Farms: Explore the world of maple syrup production situated in St Johnsbury. It functions as a factory and a museum. Take a tour to discover the whole maple sugaring experience and how they craft their pure maple syrup and an array of maple-infused products. Visit their large red-roofed gift shop to taste-test delicious samples with the essence of Vermont maple.
• Vermont Teddy Bear Company: Located in Shelburne, Teddy Bear Ambassadors lead you on a half-hour tour of the shop to see how these adorable and sweet personal bears are handcrafted. You can even customize and make your own bear.

💙 Try some Vermont-inspired CUISINE

Celebrate VERMONT Day by eating your way through the Green Mountain State. Vermont-inspired cuisine is a delightful fusion of traditional New England flavors and locally sourced ingredients.

Maple syrup holds a cherished place in Vermont’s culinary tradition, finding its way into a myriad of dishes, from the sweet to the savory and everything in between. For instance, you can savor the delightful combination of gravy-smothered fries in a classic poutine. Elk or Venison is served at many restaurants and homes in Vermont. Don’t forget corn fritters, delicious strawberry rhubarb, even those young ferns at the Fiddlehead Festival.

All things cheddar come to mind (like grilled cheese and mac & cheese) but the unconventional yet surprisingly delicious combination of apple pie with cheddar cheese all make for a delightful culinary adventure. Visit local restaurants that highlight regional flavors and ingredients. Here are just a few examples of Vermont’s unique and diverse culinary offerings.

• Maple Syrup: Vermont is famous for its high-quality maple syrup, and it’s a staple in many Vermont-inspired dishes. You can use maple syrup as a sweetener for pancakes, waffles, and French toast, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables and meats for a unique sweet-savory glaze.
• Vermont Cheddar: Vermont cheddar cheese is renowned for its sharp, creamy, and full-bodied flavor. It’s a versatile ingredient used in everything from macaroni and cheese to grilled cheese sandwiches. A classic pairing is apple slices with sharp cheddar for a tasty snack.
• Apple Cider: Vermont is known for its crisp and flavorful apple cider. It’s commonly enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in various recipes, including cider donuts, cider-braised dishes, and apple cider vinaigrettes for salads.
• Lake Champlain Chocolates: Renowned Vermont chocolatier known for crafting high-quality chocolates and confections. Their artisanal chocolates, truffles, and hot cocoa mixes are beloved treats, making them an essential part of Vermont’s sweet offerings.
• Maple Creemee: A quintessential Vermont treat. It’s soft-serve ice cream infused with pure maple syrup, creating a sweet and creamy delight that captures the essence of Vermont’s maple syrup industry.
• Sugar on Snow: A cherished Vermont tradition, especially during sugaring season. It involves pouring hot, freshly boiled maple syrup over packed snow, creating a taffy-like candy. It’s a sweet and sticky treat that’s enjoyed at sugarhouses throughout the state.
• Cabot Creamery Products: Cabot Creamery, a cooperative of dairy farmers in Vermont, produces a wide range of dairy creations, including butter, sour cream, and Greek yogurt. These products are often featured in Vermont-inspired recipes and contribute to the rich and creamy texture of many dishes.
• Hearty Stews & Soups: Due to Vermont’s cold winters, hearty stews and soups are popular comfort foods. Dishes like beef stew, chowders, and bean soups often incorporate locally sourced ingredients and warm the soul during the colder months.
• Heirloom Apples: Vermont boasts a rich variety of heirloom apple varieties, each with its unique flavor and texture. These apples are used to create traditional apple pies, crisps, and cider, adding a nostalgic touch to Vermont’s culinary heritage.
• Vermont Craft Beers: Vermont has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries producing a variety of unique and flavorful beers. Pair IPAs to stouts with local cheeses or dishes for a taste of Vermont’s craft beer culture.
• Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream: Founded in Vermont and internationally known for its creative and indulgent ice cream flavors. Vermonters and visitors alike enjoy scoops of Chunky Monkey, Phish Food, and other iconic flavors at the company’s scoop shops across the state.

💙 RAISE Social Awareness

Use social media posts with the hashtags #VermontDay, #NationalVermontDay, #StateofVermont, #Vermont, #VT, #StateHolidays, #OctoberHolidays, #Holiday, #FindADayToLOVE, #iHEARTdays to support the importance of celebrating, promoting, and sharing with the world why you ❤️ VERMONT Day.

LEARN all about the State of VERMONT

BARRY THE BALD EAGLE & VALERIE THE HERMIT THRUSH

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN VERMONT

Famous PEOPLE also born on October 12th

• Luciano Pavarotti

  Italian operatic tenor, best known for his powerful and emotive performances. Pavarotti is one of the most celebrated and beloved vocalists in the world. Born 1935.

  LUCIANO PAVAROTTI Quote

  “Learning music by reading about it is like making love by mail.”

• Hugh Jackman

  Australian actor, singer, and producer widely recognized for his role as Wolverine in the Marvel X-Men film series and his contributions to both film and stage. He also plays the guitar, piano, and violin. Born 1968.

  HUGH JACKMAN Quote

  “To get down to the quick of it, respect motivates me – not success.”

• Callum Scott

  British singer-songwriter who rose to fame on the reality TV show “Britain’s Got Talent” and gained international recognition for his soulful and heartfelt performances. He’s best known for his viral cover of Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own” and he continues to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide like BTW’s personal favorite – “You Are the Reason”. Born 1988.

  CALLUM SCOTT Quote

  “Take all the ups and downs together, as you’re only human.”

Future DATES for VERMONT Day

🌨️ State of Vermont FAQ

WHEN is VERMONT Day?

• VERMONT Day is an annual celebration held on October 12th each year.

What are the must-see tourist ATTRACTIONS in Vermont?

• Some of the more popular tourist attractions in Vermont include Montpelier, Ben & Jerry’s, the Shelburne Museum/Farm, Trapp Family Lodge, and the Lincoln family home. Other popular destinations include Quechee Gorge, Lake Champlain, loads of ski resorts including Mad River Glen, and the Green Mountain Byway.

What is Vermont KNOWN for?

• Vermont is known for its natural beauty, including the stunning Green Mountains, and is probably one of the best states for vibrant fall foliage. Vermont is renowned for its artisanal cheese, quaint covered bridges, and a thriving craft beer scene. The state’s charming small towns, cozy inns, and bed-and-breakfasts contribute to its reputation. Additionally, Vermont is recognized for its commitment to environmental conservation and is home to iconic brands like Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and Cabot Cheese.
• .
• It’s a top producer of high-quality maple syrup and a haven for outdoor activities like skiing. Robert Frost lived a good portion of his life in Vermont and got a lot of inspiration for his writings from Vermont’s landscape and covered bridges.

What’s the WEATHER like in Vermont?

• Vermont has cold and snowy winters and warm sunny summers. The jet stream which is located near Vermont makes the weather fluctuate with variable weather patterns. These changes can affect temperatures and cause abundant precipitation throughout each season.

What are Vermont’s STATE SYMBOLS?

• Some of the more commonly seen state symbols of the State of Vermont include:

• The State Bird of Vermont is the Hermit Thrush.
• The State Song of Vermont is “These Green Mountains”
• The State Pie of Vermont is the Apple Pie.
• The State Animal of Vermont is the Morgan Horse.
• The State Reptile of Vermont is the Painted Turtle.
• The State Butterfly of Vermont is the Monarch Butterfly.
• The State Tree of Vermont is the Sugar Maple.

The Imp💜rtance of VERMONT Day

VERMONT Day is important as it serves as a unique and inclusive celebration of the state of Vermont, its culture, and its history. It’s an opportunity for both residents and enthusiasts to come together and showcase the essence of Vermont. It makes us appreciate the state’s diverse contributions, setting apart those who love Vermont and its unique charm.

1. CULINARY Delights

   VERMONT Day offers an occasion to savor Vermont’s culinary treats, from the world-famous maple syrup to artisanal cheeses and craft beers. It recognizes the state’s role in the food industry and its commitment to quality and sustainability.

2. Historic PRESERVATION

   Highlighting Vermont’s dedication to historic preservation. The state’s well-preserved architecture, covered bridges, and cultural heritage showcase its commitment to honoring its legacy, making it a living museum of American history.

3. INCLUSIVITY & APPRECIATION of the Unique

   VERMONT Day promotes an appreciation for what makes Vermont special. Whether it’s the state’s renowned maple syrup, its breathtaking landscapes, or lesser-known local festivals, this day is a chance to honor it all.

   While Vermont is appreciated for the beauty of its land, it’s also for exemplifying human rights with equality for all. Vermont was the first state to grant women the right to vote, help create labor unions, and became the first state to recognize love for all through same-sex marriage for the sake of human freedom over what some may deem not spiritually correct.

VERMONT Welcomes You!