With the highest number of cheesemakers per capita in the United States, it’s no surprise that the Green Mountain State is also home to the Vermont Cheese Festival. Each year, visitors flock to the shores of Lake Champlain to try fine cheeses, taste local beer and wine, and meet all of the wonderful artisans who make them. From sharp VT cheddar to award-winning gorgonzola, the Vermont Cheesemakers Festival has something for everyone – and it’s all just a short drive from GetAway Vacations! Here are some of the things you’ll see at this year’s event.
Plan a Trip to the 2016 Vermont Cheese Festival
On July 17, 2016, head to the historic Shelburne Farms Coach Barn where you can enjoy tastings, cooking demos, educational workshops, and much more from 10 AM to 4 PM. You’ll mingle with over 40 award-winning cheese makers and artisan food producers and can try 200 different types of cheeses, beverages, and other delicious local foods like pickles, caramels, chocolates, and sauces. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the spectacular backdrop of the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks!
Festival Events
The Vermont Cheese Festival will also host a variety of free events for guests to enjoy throughout the day. Be sure to check out the Cheddar Tasting, where you’ll learn how different breeds of cows produce milk to form various types of cheddar cheese, then make your way to the Cheesemaking Demo where you’ll watch cheesemakers in action in the production room. Guests who are 21 and up can also visit the Beer and Cheese Pairing, where you’ll join 3 cheesemakers and 3 brewers to discuss this iconic food and beverage duo.
Other Fun Festival Attractions
If you need a break from eating, hop on the wagon for a ride to the historic Farm Barn where you can watch the cheese making and meet the friendly animals responsible for the milk, including cows, goats, and sheep. Shelburne Farms is also open to the public for tours and hosts many different events throughout the year. The Vermont Cheesemakers Festival always sells out, so be sure to visit the festival website to purchase your tickets.
Visit the Vermont Cheese Trail
For those who just can’t get enough of VT’s signature cheese, The Vermont Cheese Trail is a scenic 280-mile loop that starts in Plymouth Notch and ends in Websterville, VT. Along the way, guests can stop at half a dozen factories and take tours, meet the cheese wizards themselves, and purchase the products made on-site.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations!
Before you start planning your trip to the Vermont Cheesemakers Festival, be sure to book your stay at one of our Killington vacation rentals! Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, our gorgeous homes feature outdoor fire pits, grills, private hot tubs, and more that will make your summer getaway unforgettable. Enjoy hours of fun at the festival, then come back to total peace and serenity and get ready for another day of adventure tomorrow. We can’t wait to see you soon!
For more information on the best festivals in Vermont,
request a copy of our free Killington vacation guide.
Photo Credit: Magone | Thinkstock