March 22 was a busy day on Church Street, with the promise of maple and nice weather drawing Vermonters near and far for the Maple Madness Festival. The festival celebrated one of Vermont’s most beloved delicacies- complete with sweet treats, live music, games, and prizes.
The spirit of the community event brought Church Street to life. (Caroline Selby)
The event included sweet activities such as a bingo game of tasting maple samples at participating stores. Sponsors included Church Street Marketplace, Runamok Vermont Maple, Northfield Savings Bank, and Star 92.9.
Vermonters visited businesses, including Lake Champlain Chocolates, to sample maple treats. (Caroline Selby)
Raven Duke handed out tasty samples at Lake Champlain Chocolates. (Caroline Selby)
Second-generation Barre stone carver Sean Hunter Williams took to the new medium of butter. The work gathered a crowd of impressed onlookers. (Caroline Selby)
Jas Van Dyke was wowed by Sean’s butter masterpiece. (Caroline Selby)Treats being offered at the festival included kettle corn made with Vermont maple syrup. (Caroline Selby)Local singer/songwriter Sarah King entertained the crowd. (Caroline Selby)
People gathered around fire pits to enjoy the live music. (Caroline Selby)
With the festival winding down, people came to claim their bingo prizes.
Festival sponsor Runamok gave bingo winners a mini bottle of sparkle syrup. (Caroline Selby)
For lifelong Vermonters and new visitors alike, Maple Madness showcased the lively spirit of the community and Vermont’s beloved seasonal traditions.
