July in Woodstock

If you’ve read our June Blog, you already know summer in Woodstock is in full swing! If you haven’t, it’s worth taking a look back at some of the recurring events and activities that last all summer long: picnics on the riverbank, farmers markets, Feast & Field, events at our National Park, and activities for all ages at Vermont Institute of Natural Science. Now, on to July!

Our packed events schedule continues this month with live music, incredible food, and one-of-a-kind small-town experiences. With a near-perfect weather forecast on the horizon, come experience all that America’s most picturesque small town has to offer – at the most beautiful time of year!

Oh, and Happy Independence Day!

Valley News

The quintessential 4th of July Itinerary

Pack your picnic blanket, camp chairs, and favorite snacks for an unforgettable small-town independence day! It wouldn’t be July in Woodstock without the 4th festivities that attract locals and visitors alike! There’s something for the whole family with parades, tractor pulls, delicious food, music, and of course, fireworks!

Our curated itinerary for July 4th:

Enjoy a stroll through downtown Woodstock, grab a local Maple Creeme from Scoops on Central Street, and stop into our incredible local boutiques. The Village Butcher offers made-to-order sandwiches which can be enjoyed picnic-style on the river bank out back. For the adventurous, explore any number of our local swimming holes, or stop by Silver Lake State Park and spend the afternoon basking in the sun (or in a row boat). F.H. Gillingham's General Store in Woodstock or The Barnard General Store have all you need to stock up on provisions ahead of time!
Let the festivities begin! Bring the camp chairs, and join the town on the high school football field for a carnival celebration at 6 pm. At sunset, lean back and enjoy one of the best (and longest) fireworks shows in the state!

One-of-a-kind dining experiences!

While the official Taste of Woodstock street festival is still a month out in August, July in Woodstock, VT is a fantastic time of year to sample local menus, as the first fresh ingredients roll in from local farms.

An exclusive Red Barn Dinner, hosted at Kelly Way Farms, is worth the trip to Vermont alone. Nestled amidst a scenic hillside farm, the dining room is a masterfully renovated barn, with an open kitchen and communal dining layout. On arrival, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens while sipping a craft cocktail or glass of champagne. A sumptuous, multi-course handcrafted dinner begins with an introduction from Executive Chef Matthew McClure, and local purveyors, and is ultimately prepared by the Chef’s team right in front of you. This reservation-only experience is available on select days of the summer and can be booked online or through the front desk concierge at the Woodstock Inn & Resort. Check out our events calendar for upcoming red barn dinners and other culinary events.[Image]
Savor award-winning Angus beef at Cloudland Farm’s mountain top restaurant. This truly one-of-a-kind dining experience places you at the center of what is widely considered Vermont’s most beautiful farm. Park in an old barn, then make your way into the stunning timber-frame restaurant. Overlook sloping pastures while Chef Mike Borraccio crafts a delicate cuisine of fresh ingredients from Cloudland's surrounding farms. The menu changes daily and is posted on their website every Tuesday. Dinner is served on Fridays and Saturdays by reservation only and is BYOB. We recommend booking early to secure a spot!
Delighting guests with superb food, creative cocktails, and impeccable service for more than 47 years, The Prince & The Pauper features inspired dishes from classic to contemporary; handcrafted from the freshest ingredients available.
Nestled into a side alley on Mechanic Street, you’ll find Au Comptoir – a modern craft cocktail bar inspired by the exquisite materials of the old world. The space itself feels far more like a European gem than a New England cocktail lounge and features original cocktails using the freshest seasonal ingredients, an organic wine list, and a charming selection of snacks. Au Comptoir, French for “at the bar,” is the latest project from Zoe Zilian, co-founder of the world-famous Farmhouse Pottery.
Ransom Tavern is an absolutely scrumptious (and stunning) dining experience, on the stately grounds of the Kedron Valley Inn. Savor Neapolitan fare & an award-winning wine selection, surrounded by the picturesque beauty of a soft summer evening! While the fully renovated historic dining room leaves no detail unnoticed, the best seating in the house is on the front veranda!
Sante on Central Street is Woodstock’s latest dining establishment – enjoy small bites & entrées prepared with locally harvested meats, fish, poultry, and produce. The menu changes frequently and features a premium selection of wines & hand-crafted cocktails.
The Worthy Kitchen is Woodstock’s classic counter service farm-to-kitchen spot and sister restaurant to the infamous Worthy Burger. You can’t go wrong with a creative menu of original pub favorites, and the most expansive selection of VT ciders and beer in the area. There’s plenty of fun for the whole family, with an upbeat and energetic vibe!

Head over to our full list of local dining experiences in Woodstock, curated just for you. You'll find nothing short of an extensive list of spots offering farm-fresh flavors.

Pentangle Arts

Outdoor Events and Activities:

July in Woodstock marks the start of the Friday night East End (free) Concert Series! Bring a blanket, chairs, and picnic supplies as the town turns out to line our new amphitheater and East End Park. Connect with the townsfolk and enjoy local, and visiting artists right on the banks of the Ottauquechee River! Oh, and don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes – on some Fridays, things can get a bit wild! Check out the full schedule here.
Woodstock is the perfect destination to get outdoors and enjoy a hike. With clear skies and warm weather, you’ll be sure to break a sweat and get sweeping views of the valley from the top. Not sure where to get started? Check out our recommendations for local hikes for every level on the Hiking Trails page here
Bring the family along to Billings Farm and interact with animals, explore world-class gardens, and learn about Vermont farming culture and history. The model farm has been sustained by the Billings and Rockefeller families since 1871 and is widely regarded as one of the finest interactive history museums in the country. Get comfortable with Jersey cows, sheep, horses, oxen, pigs, and chickens through daily programs, hands-on activities, and events. Join a butter-making workshop, or visit for National Ice Cream Day on July 16th! Also enjoy the annual Quilt Exhibition, a unique and vibrant showcase reflecting the historical significance of quilting in rural American heritage, on display every July.