A couple of years back I was at The Taste of Woodstock in Woodstock, Vermont. This is a post I put together from that warm summer day, but I wanted to fit it in and share for those who of a mind to visit Vermont in the summer.
It seems as though something is always happening in this darling New England village. In fact nary a weekend goes by when there isn't some event, race, or fundraiser (not to mention the weekly activities). Yes, this quintessential village tucked away in the Green Mountain state boasts more events than any other place I've visited.
Not only can locals and visitors get a taste, but there also great deals from many local vendors. When I've gone to 'Taste of ABC Town" in the past, it's usually just food, and where I'm not complaining since food is one of my favorite things ever, it was nice to see booths from local vendors offering amazing deals on many of their wares (a great way to purchase holiday gifts ahead of time). The band even played 'Galway Girl' - I was in almost heaven as I closed my mind and imagined myself in Ireland.
There were certainly more vendors than I had anticipated for such a small town, but the locals and tourists came out in droves and at some points it took quite some time to drive through the village. The parking police were out and kindly waived the meter fees for the event (as they do with any big event or fundraiser). One of my favorite things about the village of Woodstock is how much they care. It may not always seem that way to those looking in - often people see the money and immediately associate it with an uppity class - very wrong. The people of Woodstock (New England) are some of the best I've ever met and it shows through their actions...anyway, back to Taste of Woodstock...
Local farms with offerings of burgers and hot dogs from locally grown livestock, chocolates and candies locally made and delicious, Asian and Mexican cuisine from locals are an unexpected surprise, crepes, baked goods, local brews and so many tantalizing scents filled the air of Woodstock today.
I went first thing in the morning when it opened up because despite how much I like the people here, I'm not fond of crowds. It gave us a chance to walk around the booths and not only sample delicious chocolate (Vermont Chocolatiers and Red Kite Candy), but to also sort through and pick out a few pieces at great prices. Side note: Vermont Chocolateirs makes just about the best fresh chocolate I've ever had. Never a dull moment in Woodstock, VT. Checkout the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce for a calender of events year round.
My spotlight vendor for the day is a new favorite of mine. Based out of nearby Quechee, VT, Vermont Chocolatiers creates some of the finest handmade chocolate available anywhere - so fresh that the chocolate actually tastes fresh! I like to stop off once in awhile to stock up on some of their dark chocolate goodies, squirreling the delights away.
Inside the Route 4 Country Store, 3699 Woodstock Road, Quechee, VT 05059
