Friday, March 7th

Your Weekend Rundown: Science Marches, Flower Show Fun, and Local Happenings – Burlington’s bustling with events this weekend! Support community protests, explore the vibrant Vermont Flower Show, enjoy live music, catch sports highlights, and discover the best local eats and things to do around town.

Table of contents: Weather→Trivia→Local News→Sports→ Events & Music→Discussion→Food+Drink Deals→Things-to-do→Contest Details

The Weather & Weekend Kickoff

Hold onto your hats, Burlington! Today's blustery conditions bring westerly winds gusting up to 40-50 mph, especially along east-facing slopes. Scattered snow showers, particularly in higher elevations, may lead to slick spots as temperatures drop into the 20s overnight. Anticipate icy patches in the early morning before a relatively calmer weekend, with highs in the upper 20s on Saturday and low-to-mid 30s by Sunday. Remember, Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday at 2:00 AM, so set your clocks ahead one hour.

You’ll want to plan around those stiff breezes if you’re venturing out for evening fun or daytime errands over the next few days. Fortunately, there’s a packed lineup of shows, dancing, and tasty local stops to entice you outside. After all, a little wind can’t keep Burlington from savoring the Vermont Flower Show, catching a new band at Radio Bean, or cheering on local Feds hockey game. Coat up, maybe toss an extra layer in the car, and enjoy what the weekend has to offer.

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​Historically, Burlington's average high on March 7 is 37°F, with a record high of 58°F set in 1964. This year, the high reached 43°F.

But first, here’s a trivia question to see how well you’re caught up with recent news: (Answer at the bottom) 

Which Vermont-based company is rolling out electric scoop trucks in collaboration with Rivian?

A) Green Mountain Coffee Roasters
B) Ben & Jerry's
C) Lake Champlain Chocolates
D) Cabot Creamery

“Over 200 people marched from the University of Vermont to downtown to call attention to Trump administration cuts to federal research funding. It comes as the University of Vermont and other schools across the country have announced hiring freezes linked to those cuts.” per WCAX

In typical Burlington fashion, folks are banding together to support science. Organizers say they hope these marches light a fire under local leadership to keep research afloat in Vermont.

“Encounters such as these, or the fear of them, are among the challenges facing Burlington restaurateurs this winter.” per Seven Days

Despite road closures, rising costs, and a good dose of cold weather, restaurants are still hustling. If you can, consider popping in for a meal this weekend — that local lunch might just help keep some of your favorite cafés going.

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“At the show attendees will ‘celebrate and recreate gardening through the ages and discover how we as humans learn from the past as we cultivate our own gardens and plant for the future.’” per ABC22/FOX44

If you’re craving green leaves and fresh blooms, the Champlain Valley Expo is your weekend destination. It’s a reminder that warmer, flower-friendly days truly are on the horizon.

“All proceeds from a silent auction, merchandise, and a 50/50 raffle go directly to the Maland family.” per WCAX

It’s a community-driven showdown on the ice to commemorate a fallen Border Patrol agent. If you’re near Jay Peak on Sunday, swing by to cheer — and know your support lifts up a family in need.

“Vermont Commerce Secretary Lindsay Kurrle says while these changes are fluid, they are still working to understand what impact tariffs on Canadian goods and energy would mean for Vermont residents.” per WCAX

If you’ve noticed any unusual upticks in fuel or certain groceries, you might blame the tariff drama. With so much cross-border trade, local businesses and consumers are prepping for whatever the feds decide next.

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“The plan calls for consolidating the sprawling school bureaucracy down from the current 119 districts to just five, setting minimums on classroom sizes — which will likely trigger the closing of small schools — and throwing out the current funding formula to allocate funding on a per-pupil basis.” per WCAX

The governor wants legislators to move quickly to transform Vermont’s school system. Whether you’re pro or con, keep an eye on how this debate shakes out — it could impact property taxes, district lines, and local communities across the state.

Sports

“Annie McColgan and Finn Sweet each placed second in the 7.5K Classic Individual Start from Oak Hill, earning both skiers First Team All-American honors.” per UVM Athletics

A huge showing for UVM Nordic as McColgan and Sweet both snagged silver. The Catamounts are still in the overall hunt, proving once again that Vermont’s love of skiing isn’t just for weekend warriors.

“Priede led all scorers with 19 and was one of three Vermont players with over 15 points.” per UVM Athletics

A second-half surge sealed the deal for UVM women’s hoops, who are making a serious statement in the postseason. With balanced scoring and strong defense, this squad looks ready for the next round.

“Joey Muldowney had two goals and an assist Thursday night leading No. 8 UConn to a 4-1 win over Vermont in Hockey East action.” per UVM Athletics

Tough result, but the Catamounts gave fans plenty to cheer for in the closing stretch of the regular season. There’s still time for redemption as Hockey East playoffs loom.

“Junior skier Hanna Larsson Nathhorst earned First Team All-American honors as she collected bronze in the giant slalom race.” per UVM Athletics

Nathhorst’s podium finish keeps UVM on the national map for alpine skiing. Watch for more Catamount action as the final NCAA Championship events wrap up this weekend.

Events

Highlights:Tonight’s lineup kicks off with the Flower Expo showcasing a dazzling array of blooms that celebrate local horticulture in a festive atmosphere. Savor a sweet moment at the chocolate tasting event at Lake Champlain Chocolates before the high-octane action of the Burlington vs. Rice Memorial HS Division 1 basketball championship game lights up the court. The game promises to deliver a showcase of local talent and community pride that’s not to be missed. To round out the evening, catch an open mic comedy session at The 126, where local wit and charm bring a refreshing burst of humor to your night.

Friday, March 7

  • 4:00 pmCollin Cope (Indie)
    Venue: Hotel Vermont · Cost: Free

  • 6:00 pmPaul Webb (Piano)
    Venue: Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge · Cost: Free

  • 6:30 pmFriday Night Ballroom (#55)
    Venue: Vermont Swings

  • 7:30 pmAmythyst Kiah
    Venue: Higher Ground

  • 7:30 pmSweeney Todd – A Musical Thriller!
    Venue: Black Box Theater

  • 7:30 pmBarbacoa (Surf Rock)
    Venue: Radio Bean · Cost: $10

  • 9:00 pmValley Meade & Aeolian Sound Present: Onyx & Cappadonna (#8)
    Venue: Nectar’s

  • 9:00 pmRap Night Burlington (Hip Hop)
    Venue: Drink · Cost: $5

  • 9:00 pmCraig Mitchell (DJ Set)
    Venue: Light Club Lamp Shop · Cost: $10–$15

  • 9:30 pmScram!, Astral Underground (Jazz/Funk)
    Venue: Radio Bean · Cost: $10

  • 10:00 pmRon Stoppable (DJ Set)
    Venue: Red Square · Cost: Free

  • 11:00 pmDierkes (DJ Set)
    Venue: Red Square Blue Room · Cost: Free

  • 11:00 pmDJ Taka
    Venue: Light Club Lamp Shop · Cost: $10–$15

Saturday, March 8

Morning & Afternoon

Evening – Live Music

Late Night – DJ/Club

Sunday, March 9

Morning & Afternoon

Evening

Reddit Community Spotlight

  • Pine Street is a Dead End
    Local residents note that Pine Street appears to have become a cul-de-sac, sparking conversation about neighborhood planning and its evolving use.
    Pine Street is a Dead End

  • Vegetarians' Favorite Burlington Spots
    Community members share their top recommendations for vegetarian-friendly eateries and hangouts around Burlington.
    Vegetarians' Favorite Burlington Spots

  • Local Seed Swap & Giveaway
    A post inviting neighbors to participate in a seed swap event, highlighting Burlington’s interest in sustainable gardening and community engagement.
    Local Seed Swap & Giveaway

That’s it for the weekend!
Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy everything happening around town! Feel free to share or forward this to friends who might want to join in.That’s All, Burlington!

Bundle up if you’re heading out tonight or tomorrow. Let’s stay active, keep local spots humming, and welcome every hint of spring that sneaks through. If you’ve got a story tip or a local scoop, drop us a line — we’ll be back on Monday with more news and neighborly finds. Stay warm out there!

Answer: B) Ben & Jerry's

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