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Event Schedule
LAST UPDATED: 9/21/2023- check back regularly!
Online schedule is best viewed on a laptop or computer browser.
VIEW & DOWNLOAD THE PASSPORT - print double-sided on ONE piece of paper or find printed copies available at these locations starting 9/25.
Saturday, September 30
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | |
| Leaf Peeping in the Library - Search for hidden leaves throughout Essex Free Library. Can you find them all? Search the library and count the leaves, then submit your final count to a librarian. Those who submit the correct number will be entered to win a copy of The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | 9am to 2pm | |
| Essex Community Historical Society will open the Harriet Farnsworth Powell Museum for visitors. There will be a scavenger hunt of interest to both adults and children. Plus - help them name the museum mascot! | 3 Browns River Road | 10am to 4pm | |
| ArtHound Gallery is a participating gallery in the Vermont Craft Council's Fall Open Studio Tour! Visit the gallery to meet the artists, see demonstrations, and sample chocolate truffles from Vermont's own Birnn Chocolate. | 21 Essex Way | 10am to 6pm | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| Essex Community Players presents Murder in the Studio by Agatha Christie. Enjoy a collection of three radio plays (Personal Call, Yellow Iris, and Butter in a Lordly Dish) as a talented cast of eleven directed by Adam Cunningham entertain you with these three whodunnits. All seats reserved. Purchase tickets at www.essexplayers.com. | Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd. | 2pm and 7:30pm | No, this is a ticketed event. |
| Oktoberfest - Black Flannel Brewing Black Flannel is offering free tastings and 5% off bottle purchases at the Distillery all week! Explore Essex will have a booth to hand out passports and you can purchase tickets for the Explore Essex 50/50 Raffle, Smuggs Bash Badge Raffle, and Indian Brook Painting Raffle. | 21 Essex Way #201 | 2pm to 8pm | |
| 1st Republic Brewing is hosting music from Jackson Garrow & BABAS TACOS Food Truck. | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | 6pm to 8pm |
Sunday, October 1
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | No, only during regular library hours |
| Charlotte Case Boutique is celebrating One Year being open! Stop by the Essex Towne Marketplace to visit them and enjoy food & drink, a photo wall, in-store giveaways and coupons, and special products. Grab yourself a scratcher discount with a purchase during Passport Week! | 1 Marketplace #21 | 10am to 2pm | |
| Essex Community Historical Society will open the Harriet Farnsworth Powell Museum for visitors. There will be a scavenger hunt of interest to both adults and children. Plus - help them name the museum mascot! | 3 Browns River Road | 10am to 4pm | |
| ArtHound Gallery is a participating gallery in the Vermont Craft Council's Fall Open Studio Tour! Visit the gallery to meet the artists, see demonstrations, and sample chocolate truffles from Vermont's own Birnn Chocolate. | 21 Essex Way | 10am to 6pm | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| Invasive Species Walk at Indian Brook Park. Learn how to identify invasives from our local experts. Please meet at the parking lot left of the gate. The tour will begin on time, so please arrive early. Bring good walking shoes, layered clothing, bottled water, or other items you may need for a 2-hour walk. | 150 Indian Brook Road | 1pm to 3pm | |
| Essex Community Players presents Murder in the Studio by Agatha Christie. Enjoy a collection of three radio plays (Personal Call, Yellow Iris, and Butter in a Lordly Dish) as a talented cast of eleven directed by Adam Cunningham entertain you with these three whodunnits. All seats reserved. Purchase tickets at www.essexplayers.com. | Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd. | 2pm | No, this is a ticketed event. |
| 1st Republic Brewing is celebrating SUNDAY FUNDAY with $6 pints. | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | ALL DAY |
Monday, October 2
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | If during normal library hours. |
| Leaf Peeping in the Library - Search for hidden leaves throughout Essex Free Library. Can you find them all? Search the library and count the leaves, then submit your final count to a librarian. Those who submit the correct number will be entered to win a copy of The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | 9am to 5pm | |
| Essex Free Library is Musical Monday with Ms. Noreen. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Rd. | 11am to 11:30am | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| Join 1st Republic Brewing for Monday Runday (running group) & a Cribbage Tourney (IV) Week #3. | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | 6pm to 8pm |
Tuesday, October 3
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | If during normal library hours. |
| Leaf Peeping in the Library - Search for hidden leaves throughout Essex Free Library. Can you find them all? Search the library and count the leaves, then submit your final count to a librarian. Those who submit the correct number will be entered to win a copy of The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | 9am to 8pm | |
| Essex Free Library is hosting Tech Time. Want to learn how to... download audio & eBooks? Use a Chromebook, laptop or cell phone? Learn a language online? Use free digital resources? Bring your device & your questions. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Rd. | 10:30am to 11:30am | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| Essex Free Library is hosting Drop-In Knitting Group. Bring your project and enjoy the company of other knitters. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Rd. | 1pm to 3pm | |
| Living Well Center for Integrative Health - "Learn How to Relieve Low Back Pain" - A discussion on ergonomics at work and home. Learn an easy stretching routine suitable for most and bring your questions for a Q&A session with a chiropractor and physical therapists on hand. Enjoy an office tour and some light refreshments while you are there. Space is limited, so registration is encouraged. This is a FREE event. | 1 Market Place, Unit 27 | 6pm Registration is not required, but is encouraged. Register HERE | For event ONLY |
| Essex Community Historical Society Meeting & Program - View the restoration of the water tower roof and windows. A short business meeting will begin at 7pm followed by a virtual tour of Fort Ethan Allen led by Will Parkinson. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Drive | 6:15pm | No |
| It's Open Mic Nite/Teacher Tuesday at 1st Republic Brewing. Get 15% off tabs! | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | 6pm to 8pm | |
| Essex CHIPS presents a documentary film Our American Family, followed by discussion with Linda Geraghty (matriarch of family featured in the film). Addiction is an all-encompassing force not only in the lives of the afflicted, but also those around them. Captured at a pivotal "nothing to lose" moment over the course of a year, Our American Family is a radically honest portrait of five family members grappling with the legacy of generational addiction as they fight to heal resentments and pull each other out of the deepest depths. This film is recommended for ages 16 and up due to language and thematic elements about substance use. The film is directed by Hallee Adelman & Sean King O'Grady. Questions email: office@essexchips.org. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Sponsors: Anonymous, Division of Substance Use Programs, Vermont Department of Health, The Essex Experience, and United Way of Northwest Vermont. | T-Rex Theatre at The Essex Experience, 21 Essex Way #300 | 7pm Tickets are free. Register HERE |
Wednesday, October 4
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | If during normal library hours. |
| Leaf Peeping in the Library - Search for hidden leaves throughout Essex Free Library. Can you find them all? Search the library and count the leaves, then submit your final count to a librarian. Those who submit the correct number will be entered to win a copy of The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | 9am to 5pm | |
| Open House at Aunt Dot's Place. You've probably donated. You've most certainly heard of them...but have you ever wondered how they do all of those great things at Aunt Dot's? Visit their OPEN HOUSE for informational tours and a children's scavenger hunt! | 51 Center Rd. | 10am to 4pm | |
| Storytime with Ms. Emily at the Essex Free Library. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Rd. | 11am to 12pm | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| Invasive Species Walk at Indian Brook Park. Learn how to identify invasives from our local experts. Please meet at the parking lot left of the gate. The tour will begin on time, so please arrive early. Bring good walking shoes, layered clothing, bottled water, or other items you may need for a 2-hour walk. | 150 Indian Brook Road | 3pm to 5pm (Note: earlier printed passports incorrectly list 5pm to 7pm) | |
| Kabaka Pyramid, 2023 Grammy Winner for Reggae Album of the Year will be performing at The Essex Experience Green! To purchase tickets for the show, visit https://sevendaystickets.com/events/kabaka-pyramid-10-4-2023. | 21 Essex Way | 6pm | |
| (Holler) - It's $6 Pint Night at 1st Republic Brewing! | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | ALL DAY |
Thursday, October 5
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | If during normal library hours. |
| Leaf Peeping in the Library - Search for hidden leaves throughout Essex Free Library. Can you find them all? Search the library and count the leaves, then submit your final count to a librarian. Those who submit the correct number will be entered to win a copy of The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | 9am to 8pm | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| Noontime Book Discussion Group at the Essex Free Library. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Rd. | 12pm to 1pm | |
| Essex Police Department will have a display just for you! Visit and see work-related items from Community Affairs, K9, School Resource Officer (SRO), Patrol, Detectives, and Tactical Team. | Essex Police Department Community Room, 145 Maple Street, Essex Junction | 1pm to 4:30pm | |
| Hand and Foot Canasta at the Essex Free Library | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Rd. | 1pm to 3pm | |
| Salt & Bubbles Wine Bar and Market is hosting a FREE TASTING! Reservations are not necessary, but are recommended. | 19 Essex Way, #412 | 5pm to 7pm | |
| Open House at Aunt Dot's Place. You've probably donated. You've most certainly heard of them...but have you ever wondered how they do all of those great things at Aunt Dot's? Visit their OPEN HOUSE for informational tours and a children's scavenger hunt! | 51 Center Rd. | 5pm to 7pm | |
| Stop in for Trivia Night & Sparky's BBQ & Grill at 1st Republic Brewing! A combo of Essex businesses bringing you a fun night of food, drink, and fun! | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | 6pm to 8pm | |
| Smokey Newfield Project in the Biergarten at Black Flannel Brewing | 21 Essex Way #201 | 6pm |
Friday, October 6
| ACTIVITY | LOCATION | TIME | OFFICIAL PASSPORT STOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroll through the Essex Free Library StoryWalk in the back garden. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | Anytime | If during normal library hours. |
| Leaf Peeping in the Library - Search for hidden leaves throughout Essex Free Library. Can you find them all? Search the library and count the leaves, then submit your final count to a librarian. Those who submit the correct number will be entered to win a copy of The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming. | Essex Free Library, 1 Browns River Road | 9am to 5pm | |
| Take 'n' Make Crafts at the Essex Free Library | Essex Free Library, 1 Brown Rivers Rd. | 9am to 5pm | |
| Fort Ethan Allen Museum showcases a collection of photos, artifacts, ephemera, uniforms, equipment and more. From its opening as a Cavalry Post in 1896, to its short time as an Air Force base, to its conversion to the private sector, much of the Post remains as it was when first built. The Fort represents an important piece of Vermont and military history. | Fort Ethan Allen Museum, 11 Marcy Road | 11am to 2pm | |
| 1st Republic Brewing is hosting music from Rick Carnell and yummy Hook & Peel Pizza. TGIF! | 39 River Rd., Ste #6 | 6pm to 8pm | |
| Essex Community Players presents Murder in the Studio by Agatha Christie. Enjoy a collection of three radio plays (Personal Call, Yellow Iris, and Butter in a Lordly Dish) as a talented cast of eleven directed by Adam Cunningham entertain you with these three whodunnits. All seats reserved. Purchase tickets at www.essexplayers.com. | Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd. | 7:30pm | No, this is a ticketed event. |
Saturday, October 7 - All activities take place at Foster Road Park, 60 Foster Rd.
| ACTIVITY | TIME |
|---|---|
| Stop by the Explore Essex Information Booth to pick up your last sticker and drop off your passport. Purchase 50/50 Raffle,tickets, Smuggs Bash Badge Raffle tickets or Painting Raffle tickets. Drop off your Pie Baking and Cookie Baking contest entries. | 10am to 4pm |
| 11am to 1pm | |
| Festival sponsor, Northfield Savings Bank will be hosting Corn Hole and handing out fun festival bags. Stop by their booth and say hello! | 10am to 4pm |
| Visit with your local news folks and festival sponsor The Essex Reporter and see what's new in the news! | 10am to 4pm |
| Touch-a-Truck featuring vehicles and equipment from the Vermont Army National Guard, Essex Fire Department, Essex Public Works, and Essex Police Department. | 10am to 4pm |
| Alyx the Magician will be performing! Sponsored by Autumn Harp
| Look for Alyx throughout the day! |
| Hop on and enjoy a horse-pulled hayride sponsored by Lamell Lumber. | 10am to 4pm |
| Enjoy Mini Golf sponsored by CCR Sales and Service, LLC | 10am to 4pm |
| Kids Carnival featuring bounce houses and other fun.Sponsored in part by Sweet P Boutique Parents - take a break under the tent and enjoy some complimentary apples from Chapin Orchard and popcorn from Essex Cinemas! | 10am to 4pm |
| Musical performances by Ryan Sweezey & Sky Blue Boys Sponsored in part by John Leo & Sons | Sky Blue Boys 10am to 12pm Ryan Sweezey 12 pm to 1pm & 2pm to 3pm |
Lawrence Family Farms will be on hand with a calf pair and display on the history of their farm. Learn about farming in Essex! | 10am to 4pm |
| Are you up for some Lawn Jenga? Stop by to visit our friends and sponsor, NBT Bank and show off your skills! | 10am to 4pm |
| SeaComm will be on hand with some complimentary swag items. Thank you, sponsor! | 10am to 4pm |
| Enjoy a Beginner Salsa Lesson & Dance Demonstration by David Nicasio and Rhiannon Ariel. FUN! | 1pm to 2pm |
| Face Painting by FACE MANIA! | 10am to 4pm |
| Food Truck Alley will have something you'll love. It has to - there are so many to choose from! Snack on a hot dog or pick up a slice of pizza for lunch. There's plenty for everyone. Bring your picnic blanket and have lunch with us! | 10am to 4pm |
| Visit vendor booths from local crafters, artists, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Find beautiful products made here in Vermont, learn or experience something new with demonstrations, pick up some free items, or color your best picture! Nearly 50 booths, including food vendors! | 10am to 4pm |
| Amateur Photo Contest voting ends and Passports must be turned in at the Information Booth. Pie and Cookie judging begins! | 1pm |
Raffle ticket winners, Amateur Photo Contest winners, and Baking Contest winners will be announced. | 3 pm |
| Celebrate the end of Explore Essex by stopping in at 1st Republic Brewing for a performance by KIP DE MOLL and $8 Pizza & Pint specials (featuring Vespa's Pizza). | 6pm to 8pm at 1st Republic Brewing, 39 River Rd., Ste #6 |
| Essex Community Players presents Murder in the Studio by Agatha Christie. Enjoy a collection of three radio plays (Personal Call, Yellow Iris, and Butter in a Lordly Dish) as a talented cast of eleven directed by Adam Cunningham entertain you with these three whodunnits. All seats reserved. Purchase tickets at www.essexplayers.com. | 7:30pm at Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd. - Grab an evening show after your day outside! |
Information
If you are planning on attending Community Day, here are some general rules and information.
WEATHER
Activities and events for Community Day will be held indoors at the Essex Middle School cafeteria and gym in case of bad weather.
PARKING
Enter from Founders Road. Shuttle service is available from the parking lot to the festival center.
SEATING
Limited bleacher and chair seating. Consider bringing your own folding chairs and picnic blankets.
FACILITIES/PORTABLE TOILETS
Portalets (ADA) are on site for public use.
PETS
We love our furry friends, but this isn't the right place for them. Leashed service animals only, please.
OUTSIDE BEVERAGES, ALCOHOL, CANNABIS
No outside beverages are allowed within the park grounds during the festival. Alcohol, cannabis-use, and illegal drugs are not permitted.
SMOKING
Vermont State Law prohibits smoking, electronic cigarettes, and any electronic or battery powered device that delivers nicotine or other substances into the body through inhaled vapor, in indoor places of public access and designated areas.