Vermont Public Community Calendar

Ben Folds is an Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter who has created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, a holiday album, and numerous collaborative records. He currently tours as a pop artist, while also performing for over two decades with some of the world’s greatest symphony orchestras.

Folds, who served for eight years as the first ever Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, stepped down from his post when Donald Trump announced his takeover of the Center. On October 25 and 26, 2024, just days before the US presidential election, Folds recorded two sold out performances with the NSO which he released as a live album in July which debuted at the top of the Billboard classical and classical crossover charts.

A New York Times Best Selling author, Ben also creates new music for film, tv and theatre, with original new music he composed to be featured in an animated Peanuts special airing this summer on Apple TV.

In 2022, he launched a music education charitable initiative in his native state of North Carolina entitled “Keys For Kids,” which provides funds and keyboards to existing nonprofits that offer free or affordable piano lessons to school-age children from economically-disadvantaged households. For the past 15 years he has been an outspoken advocate for arts funding, music education and music therapy in the US as a member of Americans For The Arts and the Arts Action Fund.

The Montpelier Contra Dance happens every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturday at the Capital City Grange Hall. We dance to live music with contra dance bands and callers from around New England and beyond. Beginners, singles, and all ages are welcome; all dances are taught. We use gender neutral role terms. There's a newcomers lesson at 7:45 pm and dancing 8-11pm. Please bring clean soft-soled shoes. More info at www.montpeliercontradance.org $12 adults, $5 kids/low-income, $20 dance supporters. Cash preferred. Venmo or CC accepted. Questions? 802-225-8921 or cdu.tim@gmail.com.

The 2026 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival closes with A Nation Listens, an ambitious evening that confronts history, identity, and the unresolved tensions at the heart of the American story.

The festival closes with A Nation Listens, an ambitious evening that confronts history, identity, and the unresolved tensions at the heart of the American story.

The night opens with Mark Turner, one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary jazz, presenting The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man, inspired by James Weldon Johnson’s 1912 novel. Turner translates the novel into a thoughtful musical essay — rhythmically elusive, harmonically dense, and emotionally intense — where long, searching lines and ensemble interplay unfold like narrative rather than illustration.

Chris Potter and Julian Lage then take the stage to debut a world premiere inspired by the legacy of abolitionist John Brown - the radical abolitionist whose 1859 raid on Harpers Ferry helped propel the nation toward Civil War. The work reflects on Brown himself: the physical body as symbol, catalyst, and moral reckoning. Potter, one of the most significant saxophonists of his generation, joins forces with Lage — guitarist celebrated for his clarity, imagination, and deep engagement with American musical traditions — to explore history through music that wrestles with contradiction, conviction, and consequence.

These performances close the festival with depth, urgency, and a clear-eyed look at the ghosts we continue to live with.

BDJF is produced by the Flynn and presented by Vermont Tire with Nokian Tyres.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

Join us for an 8-class series taught by Technology for Tomorrow! Designed to help adult learners build advanced workplace-ready technology skills, BTC's Tier 2 Digital Literacy course is intended for learners who already have basic computer experience and are ready to strengthen their confidence using Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, cloud-based tools, and cross-platform navigation. Each 1.5-hour session provides hands-on, practical instruction using Google Drive, Docs, Gmail, Calendar, Sheets, and Slides, with clear connections to how these skills transfer to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

VSAC tuition assistance may be available to eligible adult learners and can cover all or part of the program cost. For more information or to inquire about eligibility, contact btcadulted@bsdvt.org.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

Every moment, every sound, each expression of every song evokes the power and the passion of Neil Diamond.

Visually spectacular and warmly familiar, this powerful concert experience is not only a feast for the eyes and ears, but for the heart.

Combining the passion of Broadway with the power of a live concert we rediscover his charismatic presence in this uplifting production, complete with a finale of heart pounding patriotic pride!

This Show is a Neil Diamond Concert Celebration starring the #1 Diamond performer in the world – Jay White.

Conceived in response to Mr. Diamond’s retirement from the concert stage and the huge demand from audiences worldwide to enjoy the music of the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame icon in a live music setting, Jay White and his dynamic band pays homage to Neil Diamond by performing the hits and beloved gems you know and love with the same energy and artistry Neil delivered over his incredible 50 year career.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

Join us for an 8-class series taught by Technology for Tomorrow! Designed to help adult learners build advanced workplace-ready technology skills, BTC's Tier 2 Digital Literacy course is intended for learners who already have basic computer experience and are ready to strengthen their confidence using Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, cloud-based tools, and cross-platform navigation. Each 1.5-hour session provides hands-on, practical instruction using Google Drive, Docs, Gmail, Calendar, Sheets, and Slides, with clear connections to how these skills transfer to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

VSAC tuition assistance may be available to eligible adult learners and can cover all or part of the program cost. For more information or to inquire about eligibility, contact btcadulted@bsdvt.org.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

The Montpelier Contra Dance happens every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturday at the Capital City Grange Hall. We dance to live music with contra dance bands and callers from around New England and beyond. Beginners, singles, and all ages are welcome; all dances are taught. We use gender neutral role terms. There's a newcomers lesson at 7:45 pm and dancing 8-11pm. Some months on 3rd Saturdays there is a Waltzing Session 7-7:45. Check the website or Facebook page. Please bring clean soft-soled shoes. More info at www.montpeliercontradance.org. $12 adults, $5 kids/low-income, $20 dance supporters. Cash preferred. Venmo or CC accepted. Questions? 802-225-8921 or cdu.tim@gmail.com.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

January 8-April 23rd, 2026
Reception: January 17, 5:30-7pm

ZERO CELSIUS unfolds at Mad Arts and Sugarbush Resort, bringing together artwork that explores the textures, tensions, and transformations of winter. From the hush of frozen landscapes to the volatility of a warming climate, the exhibition reflects on how the cold season shapes—and is reshaped by—human and environmental relationships.
Featuring sculpture, installation, sound, photography, and digital media, ZERO CELSIUS examines winter as material, concept, and metaphor: crystalline, fleeting, and ecologically vital. Visitors are invited to consider the fragility of snow in a changing world, reconnect with winter’s wonder and silence, and share their own stories of a season both timeless and increasingly imperiled.

Join us for an 8-class series taught by Technology for Tomorrow! Designed to help adult learners build advanced workplace-ready technology skills, BTC's Tier 2 Digital Literacy course is intended for learners who already have basic computer experience and are ready to strengthen their confidence using Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, cloud-based tools, and cross-platform navigation. Each 1.5-hour session provides hands-on, practical instruction using Google Drive, Docs, Gmail, Calendar, Sheets, and Slides, with clear connections to how these skills transfer to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

VSAC tuition assistance may be available to eligible adult learners and can cover all or part of the program cost. For more information or to inquire about eligibility, contact btcadulted@bsdvt.org.