Monday, May 26th (Memorial Day)

Your Early Week Boost: Sun's Out, Warmth Building Through Midweek – Top Gun Night, Jumpstart Expo & Marathon Memories – Enjoy today's lovely sunshine carrying us into a warm Tuesday and Wednesday, perfect for Switchback's outdoor movie or Generator's innovation showcase. We're also looking back at the marathon's energy, noting a foodie farewell in the ONE, and parsing the latest from Winooski schools before showers make their return.

May 26, 2025

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Table of Contents

Weather & Monday Rundown:

After a weekend that perhaps had us reaching for an extra blanket, it seems the weather gods are finally smiling upon our little corner of Vermont, just in time for the work week to pretend it never really left. We're looking at a lovely stretch, for the most part. The sunshine made a welcome return today and temperatures climbed into the much more agreeable upper 60s and low 70s. Tonight looks to be mostly clear, with lows dipping into the 40s, maybe nudging 50, so keep a window cracked. Tuesday is shaping up beautifully, starting with plenty of sun before a few those fluffy, picturesque clouds pop up in the afternoon; expect highs in the upper 70s, perhaps even touching 80 degrees. Wednesday continues the warmth, also near 80, with partial morning sun before clouds gather in the afternoon, likely bringing some showers after dark. Looking ahead, Thursday will probably see more clouds than sun, with a few showers and maybe a thunderstorm, particularly in the evening, cooling things slightly into the upper 60s and low 70s.

With Tuesday looking so promising, it might just be the perfect evening to head over to Switchback Brewing Company for their Top Gun Maverick Movie Night at the Beer Garden, kicking off at 6:30 PM. Feel the need for speed, and perhaps a good craft brew? Before that cinematic adventure, however, Wednesday offers a different kind of buzz with the Jumpstart Expo & Pitch Night from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Generator Makerspace. It's a fantastic chance to see local innovation bubbling up as startup teams from the JumpStart accelerator program present their brainchildren. Always inspiring to see what our neighbors are cooking up.

And speaking of community and getting out, Thursday evening brings Bike Bloom 2025 to the Intervale Center at 5:30 PM. Even if Thursday’s skies are a bit undecided, the spirit of group bike rides for all paces, a bike show, and a party benefiting the Intervale Center and Old Spokes Home is certainly something to rally behind. For those whose tastes lean more towards powerful chords than pedal power, Wednesday night also features Smile Empty Soul & Tantric at the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge at 7:30 PM – a solid offering for hard rock aficionados. And if a whole week of smooth sounds is more your tempo, Foam Brewers starts their Jazz: 2025 Edition on Wednesday with Geza Carr from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the first of five days showcasing local jazz talent leading up to the big festival.

This week in Burlington, highs range from 68°F to 79°F and lows from 49°F to 57°F. Historically, late May averages around 74°F for a high and 49°F for a low, so we’re running just a touch warmer. Overall, it’s a classic late May week—mild and right on trend.

"We have an increase in growth, which is really great. We have about 1,900, I am going to round, 1,900 marathoners coming. We also have about 1,000 relay teams,” said Beth Anderson of Run Vermont, per WCAX.

The city was certainly buzzing yesterday as thousands of runners and even more spectators filled the streets for this major event. Beyond the impressive athletic feats, the marathon brings a significant energy and economic boost to Burlington, reminding us of the community spirit that thrives here. If you missed the action or just want to relive it, the link above has some great footage. Highly recommend you see the chaos that was Burlington.

Despacito announced that it is offering its kitchen equipment and lease for the asking price of $40,000, per the Burlington Free Press.

It's always a shame to see a local spot close its doors, especially one like Despacito that brought a unique vegan, Puerto Rican influenced menu to the Old North End. This news highlights the challenging environment for restaurants but also signals an opportunity for a new culinary concept to take root in a known location.

“Today I’m telling you very clearly that this vote represents the voices of the overwhelming majority — 29-2 is definitive,” said Annie Schneider, vice president of the Winooski Education Association, according to VTDigger.

This is a significant development out of Winooski, as a vote of no confidence from such a large majority of teaching staff against Co Principal Jean Berthiaume indicates deep seated issues. The union states concerns date back to 2022, while the School Board's response emphasizes the superintendent's role in personnel matters, suggesting a complex situation ahead.

“I deployed in 2005 to Ramadi, Iraq with Task Force Sabor from Vermont. We lost eighteen individuals. Today’s powerful for me and our friends because we know that there are families that aren’t enjoying this day with their service member,” Sgt. Max Rooney of the Vt. National Guard told WCAX.

Despite a bit of rain, Essex Junction held its 38th Annual Memorial Day Parade on Saturday, a poignant reminder of the true meaning of the holiday. The personal reflections from veterans underscore the importance of these community events for remembrance and honoring sacrifice. You can catch scenes from the parade via the link.

“To make someone’s day, put a smile on their face, to make them feel that they’re not alone,” said fourth grader Vasile Cibuc, as reported by WCAX.

This heartwarming initiative saw local students decorating and filling 200 snack bags for Chittenden County residents experiencing homelessness. It’s a wonderful example of community compassion in action, driven by local advocate Jason Fitzgerald and embraced by young Vermonters.

"Vermont manages 55 parks that offer opportunities for residents and visitors to get outside and conserve the state’s natural resources," WCAX reports.

As of today, our state parks are officially open, signaling the true start of the outdoor season for many. These parks are not only gems for recreation but also key contributors to Vermont's tourism economy, offering everything from camping to beach days. Hope to catch you out there enjoying these beautiful Vermont summers.

Events:

Monday, May 26, 2025 (Memorial Day) 

General Events

  • 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM: Laughter Yoga: Promotes physical and emotional health through movement and breath at Pathways Vermont (Burlington) (Free)

  • 6:00 PM: Monday Night Line Dancing – Memorial Day Dance Party! at Burlington Beer Company

  • 6:00 PM: Burlington Elks Bingo at Burlington Elks Lodge (Burlington) (Various prices)

  • 7:00 PM: Open Mic Night at Monkey House (Winooski) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: Trivia with Craig Mitchell at Monkey House (Winooski) (Free)

Live Music/DJ

  • 7:30 PM: Glitterfox (indie) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge (South Burlington) ($22.95)

  • 8:00 PM: Samia, Farraella (indie) at Higher Ground Ballroom (South Burlington) ($32.06)

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 

General Events

  • 12:00 PM: Saving Grace Family Ministries Street Outreach at Saving Grace Family Ministries

  • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Afternoon Tech Help: One-on-one sessions for tech questions at South Burlington Public Library & City Hall (South Burlington) (Free; preregistration required)

  • 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Podcasting: From Ideas to Airwaves (Workshop) at South Burlington Public Library & City Hall (South Burlington) (Free; preregistration required)

  • 5:15 PM - 6:00 PM: Community Meditation: Open to all experience levels at First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington (Burlington) (Free; donations accepted)

  • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Truth & Justice Series (Talk with Rev. Mark Hughes of the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance) at South Burlington Public Library & City Hall (South Burlington) (Free; preregistration required)

  • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM: French Conversation Group: For French-speakers and learners at Burlington Bay Market & Café (Burlington) (Free)

  • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Burlington Literature Group: Analyzing Thomas Pynchon's "Gravity's Rainbow" (Burlington) (Free)

  • 6:00 PM: EZ Breezy Bike Rides: Casual group ride around Burlington. BYO bike at Local Motion (Burlington) (Free)

  • 6:00 PM: Tandem Charleston at Vermont Swings

  • 6:30 PM: Top Gun Maverick Movie Night at the Beer Garden at Switchback Brewing Company

  • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM: Tiny Food Potluck [Odd Hour] : Bring a miniature dish to share at Odd Fellows Lodge (Burlington) (Free; preregistration required)

  • 7:00 PM: Eli Erlick (Book Talk): Author shares her new book, "Before Gender: Lost Stories From Trans History, 1850-1950" at Phoenix Books Burlington (Burlington) ($3; preregistration required)

  • 7:00 PM: Open Mic Comedy with Levi Silverstein at the 126 (Burlington) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: Tuesday Trivia at Vermont Comedy Club (Burlington) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: Open Mic Night at Monkey House (Winooski) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: Beginning Swing at Vermont Swings

  • 7:00 PM: Beginner Salsa at South End Studio

  • 7:00 PM: Lindy 2 – Integrating Solo Jazz into Your Lindy Hop at Vermont Swings

  • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Swing Dance Practice Session: All ages and experience levels at North Star Community Hall (Burlington) ($5)

  • 8:00 PM: Intermediate Salsa at South End Studio

Performances

  • 6:00 PM: Agathe & Adrien: 'N.ORMES' (Circus Show) at Flynn Main Stage (Burlington) ($32)

  • 7:00 PM: Film Screening: "Hairspray" (1988) at Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center (Burlington) (Free)

Live Music/DJ

  • 6:00 PM: Michael Hartigan – Solo Piano (Free Entry) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge (Burlington) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: Yellow Rainbows, Daffodil (folk rock) at Radio Bean (Burlington) ($5/$10)

  • 8:00 PM: Grateful Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute) at Nectar's (Burlington) ($10)

  • 8:30 PM: Grateful Tuesdays: A Family Affair at Nectar’s

  • 9:00 PM: Honky Tonk Tuesday with Pony Hustle (country) at Radio Bean (Burlington) ($10)

Wednesday, May 28, 2025 

General Events

  • 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM: Where IT Meets Insight: Smarter Business Starts Here with Heather Daniels Queen City Business Networking International Group: Weekly chapter meeting at BCA Center Burlington (Burlington) (Free)

  • 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Jumpstart Expo & Pitch Night: Startup teams pitch their products at Generator Makerspace (Burlington) (Free; cash bar; preregistration required)

  • 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Greek Conversation Group: Chat in modern Greek at Fletcher Roam, Fletcher Free Library (Burlington) (Free)

  • 5:30 PM: Burlington Silent Book Club May Meet‑Up at Perkins Pier

  • 5:30 PM: Circling – Every Wednesday at Burlington Friends Meeting

  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Kawaii Culture in Japan and Beyond Vermont Humanities Snapshot Series: Nisha Kommattam discusses "Kawaii Culture in Japan and Beyond" at South Burlington Public Library & City Hall (South Burlington) (Free)

  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Community Cooking: Make a meal for distribution at Pathways Vermont (Burlington) (Free)

  • 6:00 PM: Venetian Trivia Night at Venetian Soda Lounge

  • 6:00 PM: Scrabble at The Boardroom

  • 7:00 PM: $5 Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club (Burlington) ($5)

  • 7:00 PM: Trivia Night at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill (Winooski) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: May Wednesday Lessons & Social at Vermont Swings

  • 8:30 PM: Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club (Burlington) (Free)

Live Music/DJ

  • 6:30 PM: The Professors of Mystery (jazz, experimental) at Light Club Lamp Shop (Burlington) ($5/$10)

  • 6:30 PM: BBQ and Bluegrass (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing (Winooski) (Free)

  • 7:00 PM: Jazz: 2025 Edition Geza Carr (jazz) at Foam Brewers (Burlington) (Free)

  • 7:30 PM: Smile Empty Soul & Tantric, Kamenar, Sygnal to Noise (hard rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge (South Burlington) ($26.42)

  • 8:00 PM: An Evening with Burning Monk (Rage Against the Machine tribute) at Nectar's (Burlington) ($12.47)

  • 8:00 PM: First Radeo, Sunbeam, Silver Tree (alt-country) at Radio Bean (Burlington) ($10)

  • 8:30 PM: Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont (Burlington) (Free)

  • 9:00 PM: Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126 (Burlington) (Free)

Thursday, May 29, 2025 

General Events

Live Music/DJ

202+ Things to Do in Burlington (Summer Activities)

Today’s picks:

Five more to add to your running list of things worth doing before the season slips by. Walk the trails at Niquette Bay State Park in Colchester, where wooded paths lead to hidden beaches and quiet lake views. Take a seat at The Spot on the Dock for a late afternoon drink with the water right at your feet and boats passing by. If you’re feeling curious, check out the Reverence whale tails sculpture just off I-89—it’s easy to miss, but once you’ve seen them, you’ll spot them every time. For a slower pace, head to Lone Rock Point and sit on the cliffs while the lake moves below you. And if it’s Saturday morning, start your day at the BTV Market in City Hall Park, where local makers, music, and food carts set the tone for a proper summer weekend.

Full list is still growing here: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/202-activites

Eating Out On A Budget (Food & Drink Deals)

This Week’s Food & Drink Picks
• Monday: ½-price burgers at Shelburne Tap House and $1 drafts at Three Needs
• Tuesday: $5 tacos at Shelburne Tap House and BOGO 50% off traditional wings at Buffalo Wild Wings
• Wednesday: $5 off burgers at Daily Planet and $2 corn dogs at Mule Bar
• Thursday: $0.75 wings at Shelburne Tap House and $10 for 2 pizza slices + pint at Four Quarters Brewing

View the full list of food & drink deals here: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/food-drink-deals

This Week’s Comic:

Ooof.. it’s that time of year again!

This Week’s Restaurant Review:

A Single Pebble has long been a cornerstone of Burlington's dining scene, offering an upscale yet welcoming experience centered around authentic Chinese cuisine. Housed in an unassuming Bank Street building, the restaurant’s interior, with its white tablecloths and elegant Asian art, sets a refined but comfortable stage for a convivial meal. It’s a place where communal dining is encouraged, evident in the large round tables equipped with lazy Susans, often bustling with groups sharing a variety of dishes. Chef-owner Chiuho Duval's commitment to traditional Sichuan and other regional Chinese flavors ensures a menu that is both genuine and appealing to a broad audience.

The menu at A Single Pebble is a journey of shared plates, designed for exploration and enjoyment. The famed Mock Eel, a remarkable creation of shiitake mushrooms transformed to an eel-like richness, stands out as a must-try and has even garnered national attention. Other highly recommended dishes include the subtly flavored Tea-Smoked Duck and the addictive Dry-Fried Green Beans. While the restaurant is celebrated for its meat and seafood, it also consistently wins accolades for its vegetarian and vegan options, with creative dishes like Buddhist Tofu and Buddha’s Beef satisfying all palates. Many diners opt for the chef’s tasting menu to sample a wide array of the kitchen’s best offerings.

While A Single Pebble delivers a high-quality culinary experience often compared to what one might find in a larger city, it does come with a higher price point, with family-style dishes generally ranging from $18–$30. A full meal, especially with appetizers, can become a significant investment. However, most patrons find the exceptional quality, depth of flavor, and attentive service justify the cost. For those seeking a truly special Chinese meal in Burlington, A Single Pebble offers a unique and memorable journey, showcasing the art of shared food and refined taste.

View the full list of reviews here: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/restaurant-reviews

That’s All, Burlington!

Quite a bit to chew on and look forward to as we head into the week. Hopefully, the sunshine holds for all your outdoor plans, and if not, there’s plenty happening indoors too. It’s always good to see the community coming together, whether it’s for a run, a helping hand, or just to enjoy some local talent.

Keep those tips and Btown happenings coming our way. Catch you Thursday.

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