After months of preparation, the Vermont Music Fest, a great family event by day and huge dance party by night, is ready! Gates open at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, at Lareau Farm, home of American Flatbread. A discounted family price is in effect on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. It's a rain or shine event, but pets (except for service animals) and alcohol are not allowed. Beer, wine and cider are available for purchase onsite. Kids 12 and under get in free.
What does all things community mean? The Mad River Valley Rotary, sponsor of the event, is sharing the day with many nonprofits. For instance, People's Health and Wellness Clinic (PHWC) will provide volunteers and then receive part of the parking fees. PHWC has served uninsured and underinsured adults in Washington County with health care services for more than 20 years, www.phwc.org. "We thank Jeff Mack for starting this great festival and the tradition of donating to the People's Health and Wellness Clinic as well as to the Rotary for continuing that support. Our goal is to increase awareness in The Valley of our free services for people who need them. We now offer dental services too," said Bob Meany, Warren resident and president of PHWC Board.
Local libraries will offer a quiet tent, Voices for Vermont's Children will offer spin art and Open Hearth will provide kids with the opportunity to create instruments out of recycled materials they can shake and pound on during the puppet parade at 4 p.m. Open Hearth Community Center was created in 2002 with the mission to create multi-generational programs ahead of raising the money for a building or utilizing vacant space. They offer afterschool programming, summer camps and other events that foster community connections. For more information go to www.openhearthmrv.org.
Local food vendors will offer sweet and savory options while music continues all day on two stages. At 8 p.m., there is a bonfire followed by the Sky Lantern Launch at 8:30 p.m. and finally at 9 p.m., Ignis Solus, will twirl fire while Gridline plays until 10 p.m.
For tickets go to www.vtmusicfest.com. Tickets are also sold locally at Three Mountain Cafe, Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce, Mad River Distillers, The Warren Store and Rotary booth at the Waitsfield Farmers' Market.
