Vermont Public Community Calendar

Vermont Film Festival presents filmmaker Jim Merkel at Pentangle Theater for a special screening of his documentary, Saving Walden's World. This heartfelt film will be paired with the narrative short Un Día Normal (A Normal Day) in an afternoon celebrating storytelling that matters.

📍 Where: Pentangle Theater, Woodstock, VT
🕐 When: Sunday, August 3, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m.

🎟️ Tickets: Available at pentanglearts.org/event-details/vermont-film-festival-is-back
Saving Walden's World isn't your typical environmental documentary. It's the story of a father grappling with what kind of planet he's leaving his son. Jim's quest for answers takes him from the streets of Havana to the forests of Slovenia and the backwaters of Kerala, India—places where ordinary people have created extraordinary change in education, healthcare, and sustainability.

About Jim Merkel:

Jim's path from military engineer to sustainability advocate wasn't typical, but it was authentic. After designing weapons systems, he made a radical pivot toward living lightly on the earth. His book Radical Simplicity emerged from years of asking hard questions about consumption and meaning. Today, he lives off-grid in Maine, raising his family and sharing what he's learned about finding contentment with less.

What to Expect:

• Double feature: Un Día Normal (narrative short) + Saving Walden's World (documentary feature)
• Filmmaker discussion with Jim Merkel
• An afternoon of stories that inspire action
• Connection with fellow Vermonters who care about our shared future

This screening is part of the Vermont Film Festival's mission to showcase films that don't just entertain—they illuminate. In a world full of problems that feel too big to solve, Saving Walden's World offers something increasingly rare: genuine hope backed by real examples.

From the heart of Louisiana comes a sound that’s pure joy and rhythm. Join us for a soul-shakin’ night with the legendary Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, two-time GRAMMY® winners who’ve been keeping Creole culture alive and dancin’ for over 40 years!

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Quechee Scottish Games

Saturday, August 23, 2025 | Quechee Polo Field | Quechee, Vermont | 9 AM – 5 PM

Quechee, VT – The hills of Vermont will come alive with the sound of bagpipes, the swirl of kilts, and the thunder of drums as the 50th Annual Quechee Scottish Games returns to the Quechee Polo Field on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025.

Marking five decades of Scottish heritage and celebration, this milestone event promises a day filled with tradition, music, family fun, and athletic excellence. Visitors will enjoy:

• Massed Pipe Bands & Drum Majors
• Scottish Clans and Genealogy Displays
• Highland Dance & Solo Piping Competitions
• Heavy Athletics, including caber toss and hammer throw
• Sheep Dog Demonstrations
• Children’s Games & Family Activities
• Scottish Vendors, Food, and Cultural Exhibits
• Live Entertainment all day on the main stage

With free admission for children under 12, a $25 general admission, ample on-site parking, and shuttle service for disabled guests, the Games are a welcoming and accessible experience for all.

Come early, wear your tartan, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and spirit of Scotland in the Green Mountains. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, the Quechee Games’ 50th anniversary is not to be missed.

Known for her unfiltered, uncensored, razor-sharp humor, Emma Willmann is bringing the laughs to Bethlehem! You’ve seen her on The CW’s Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert—now, catch her LIVE! @ The Colonial for a night of stand-up you won’t want to miss.

You won’t want to miss the Edgar May Health and Recreation Center's Springfield Dam Run on Saturday, September 6 from 4:00 to 7:30pm. This year, the Dam Run will take place entirely within the Army Corps of Engineers’ property at the Springfield Dam on Reservoir Road in Springfield.

The evening will start with our classic Kids’ Half-Mile Fun Run for ages 12 and under. This closed trail event is safe, exciting, and a great way to introduce younger children to running events, and it’s free!

Following the Kids’ Fun Run is the Maniac Mile, a brand new one-mile sprint for individuals ages 10 and older. How fast can you go?

And finally, don’t miss our traditional Springfield Dam Run 5k. Run or walk with your family, friends, co-workers, and community. Featuring trails, slight elevation gain, and fast downhills, and scenic views of Mount Ascutney, you won’t want to miss this race. This event is open to individuals of all ages.

Before, during, and after the races, check out our Family Fun Zone with food trucks, axe throwing, and other activities for the whole family. Everyone is invited and encouraged to join us in this celebration.

Registration is now open for all three races. Learn more and sign up online at www.edgarmay.org/springfield-dam-run. For more information, call 802-885-2568, email info@edgarmay.org, or visit www.edgarmay.org.

Get ready for an exhilarating evening of trans-Atlantic folk music with Skye Consort & Emma Björling! This acclaimed ensemble weaves together traditions from Québec to Sweden with rousing instrumentals, soaring vocals, and infectious rhythms.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY: First Responder Night
September 26, 2025 (Friday preview)

We welcome first responders and all members affiliated with the community across the Upper Valley to an evening of gathering and appreciation. Join us for small refreshments and mingling before the performance!
RSVP recommended but not required.

First responders are eligible for $10 off regular price tickets (blackout dates apply). For all performances, first responders are welcome to pick up a concession voucher at the box office, valid for the Come From Away production. Please contact the box office for more information.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

Get ready for a transcendent night of music that blends Malian blues, rock, and soul. Known worldwide for his electrifying live shows, Vieux Farka Touré brings his virtuosic guitar work and magnetic stage presence to The Colonial Theatre on September 27! Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his sound, this is a rare opportunity to witness a global legend in an intimate setting.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.

Come From Away: Artists Talkback
Saturday, Oct 4th following the 7:30pm performance

Join us after the 7:30 PM show for a conversation with the Come From Away company.
Admission is Free to the Public.

COME FROM AWAY

music, book, and lyrics by IRENE SANKHOFF & DAVID HEIN
directed by CAROL DUNNE

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 26, 2025

When the world stood still, a small town stepped up. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 38 planes unexpectedly grounded in Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. What begins as an overwhelming crisis quickly transforms into an extraordinary moment of human connection as the townspeople and passengers form lasting bonds. With humor, heart, and a soaring score, this critically acclaimed musical is a moving, uplifting reminder of how, even in the darkest times, we can find light in each other.