Wednesday, February 26th

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

A Wintry Mix Rolls In

Burlington is once again bracing for an ever-shifting forecast. Later tonight, a fast-moving system is set to drop fresh small dusting of snow just in time for Thursday morning’s commute. Totals will likely run a dusting to a couple of inches across much of the Champlain Valley, but folks in central and southern Vermont—especially those east of the Green Mountains—could see up to four or five inches. Temperatures may briefly nudge around 40 Thursday afternoon, sparking some valley rain or slush before cooler air slips back in on Friday. As we head into the weekend, expect a possible round of light snow late Friday into Saturday, mixing with rain in some lower spots. By Sunday, winter tightens its grip again, with daytime highs crashing into the teens or single digits, so keep an extra-warm layer on hand.

If you’re heading out to enjoy Burlington’s lively scene over the next few days, you might be hopping over a few puddles—or slick patches—on your way between coffee shops, music venues, and theaters. Make sure you’ve got boots you trust, because there’s a line dancing lesson, a UVM hockey game, and a Beatles tribute show all vying for your time this week. It’s a busy stretch around town, and a little slush isn’t going to stop Vermont folks from getting out and about.

Exciting news: We’re launching a monthly $50 giveaway for one lucky subscriber each month—just for reading, staying updated, and, hopefully, referring friends! Yup, you heard that right. We’re giving back simply for your weekly attention. Let’s grow this newsletter together, so tell everyone you know! Drawing is every 20th of the month. Keep scrolling to the bottom to learn how to boost your odds with your given referral link, or just visit our landing page: Click here for full details

Burlington Scavenger Hunt – First to Finish Wins $30!
Ever wanted to put your local knowledge (and photography skills) to the test? We’re kicking off a Burlington Iconic Landmarks Scavenger Hunt—and the first person to complete it wins $30! The challenge is simple: Take 7 photos based on our list. Some are well-known spots, like Church Street Marketplace. Others are open to interpretation—like capturing “a creative reflection of Burlington.” The first person to send in all 7 wins $30. Bonus: Your photos may also be featured in upcoming editions of the newsletter, so this is a chance to show off your perspective of Burlington to the whole community. Let’s see what you come up with! Make sure they aren’t old photos you’ve taken before. We may ask to show the timestamps. Get the full details by scrolling the bottom or check out our landing page here: Click here for full details

Today's high of 40°F and low of 28°F are both above Burlington's typical February 26th averages of 34°F and 17°F, respectively.

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

A Powerball ticket worth $1 million was recently sold in Vermont. Where was it purchased?

A) Burlington Market
B) Glover’s Family Market and Deli
C) Montpelier Convenience
D) Rutland Supermart

Btown On A Budget:

This midweek in Burlington, Wednesday brings tasty deals—from burger night at The Daily Planet and BOGO pizzas at Pizzeria Verità to $1 pizza slices and beers during Duff Hour at Three Needs Taproom. Thursday features jumbo wings for just $0.75 at Shelburne Tap House and small plates happy hour at Gold Restaurant, while Friday wraps up with a $10 fish & chips dinner special plus more Duff Hour delights. Click here to view all the food and drink deals.

Not Sure Where to Spend Your Money? I made a categorized list of Burlington Businesses for you!

Discover the vibrant pulse of our community with the new Burlington Business Directory—a curated guide spotlighting everything from local food and wellness to tech and outdoor gear. Whether you're in search of a trendy café or a unique gift shop, this directory makes it easy to explore and support the businesses that make our town special. For the full scoop: Click here to view Burlington Business Directory.

Local News (All Links Clickable)

Demolition of blighted South Burlington businesses underway

A rundown Pizza Hut and gas station on Shelburne Road are finally coming down. After years of graffiti and boarded-up windows, South Burlington officials say the plan is for commercial space plus 30 new housing units—some of which will be affordable. Here’s hoping that corner of Shelburne Road gets a second life soon.

Warm spell allows Burlington pothole crews to get to work

The city’s public works teams pounced on this week’s mild temperatures to tackle some of those legendary potholes dotting our streets. They’re patch jobs for now, since asphalt plants are still closed for the season. More permanent fixes roll out once the real spring arrives (whenever that might be).

UVM student wearing heels makes a splash on social media

This Valentine’s Day gesture from a Waterbury native studying abroad warmed hearts on both sides of the world. He swapped shoes with his girlfriend because her feet hurt, and a viral video later, his life lesson is to always keep a spare pair. We’ll call that a stride in the right direction.

Burlington airport parking reaches capacity

It’s a full house at the airport garage and the usual backup lots, thanks to a surge in flights and bigger planes. If you’ve got a trip planned, consider hitching a ride instead of rolling the dice on a parking spot. There’s never been a better time to phone a friend (or that one relative with a flexible schedule).

Improving public transit is the focus of Transit Equity Day in Vermont

Advocates say a lack of rural bus routes and limited hours hamper Vermonters—particularly those with disabilities or lower incomes. Calls for more funding and better service aren’t new, but the momentum might be growing as ridership numbers creep back up post-pandemic. Time will tell if lawmakers are listening.

PHOTOS: Hundreds gather at Sharp Park for Milton Winter Festival

Milton’s annual Winter Festival saw spirited sledding, disc golf competitions, sleigh rides, and a chili cook-off. The turnout was huge, which might be proof that locals embrace winter—at least when there’s a warm drink and fireworks in the picture.

3 rescued following Mount Equinox plane crash

A small plane went down near Mount Equinox’s summit, but miraculously all three aboard escaped with non-life-threatening injuries. Getting everyone off the mountain in four feet of snow was no small task. Cheers to our first responders for a job well done in tough conditions.

Advocates for school cellphone ban lobby Vt. lawmakers

Students and teachers from schools with “bell-to-bell” bans say it boosts focus and reduces drama. Some parents worry about emergencies, but supporters argue the front office is still the fastest way to reach a child if something arises. The debate rages on over how unplugged kids should be from 8 to 3.

Burlington mayor makes pitch for pricey bond measures

Burlington residents will decide on nearly $200 million in bonds this Town Meeting Day, mostly to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure. Rate hikes could follow—one proposal may raise water bills nearly 90% by 2030. City Hall hopes voters see it as an investment in a modern system, not just a blow to the wallet.

Colchester opens new recreation center

After two decades of planning, the doors are open on Colchester’s new rec center. Residents can now walk an indoor track, shoot hoops, or join training classes—even spin if that’s your speed. Colchester officials say it’s a game-changer for seniors and for folks who hate braving the cold just to get some exercise.

Sports

Vermont Begins Mid-Atlantic Trip with a Matchup Against NJIT Thursday Night

The men’s basketball team sits in second place in the America East standings and heads to the Garden State on a hot streak. TJ Hurley’s consistent scoring has been a highlight—fingers crossed for more of the same as they look to secure a postseason advantage.

Catamounts Come Up Short Against Fairfield

UVM women’s lacrosse fought hard on the road but couldn’t claw back after Fairfield’s late scoring run. Still, there were a few bright spots, including a breakout performance from freshman Caitlin Haggerty. The team heads to Brown next, hoping to turn those flashes of offense into a complete game.

Events

Highlights: If you're looking for live music, RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles takes over The Flynn this Thursday at 7:30 PM, bringing classic hits to life with a stunning performance. For a fun challenge, join our Burlington Scavenger Hunt—be the first to capture seven local landmarks and win $30! And don’t miss Sweeney Todd: A Musical Thriller on Friday at 7:30 PM at Main Street Landing, a dark and gripping tale brought to the stage.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26

• Women’s Hockey Hosts Holy Cross During Hockey East Playoffs Opening Round
  BURLINGTON, Vt. – The eight-seed Vermont Catamounts face the nine-seed Holy Cross Crusaders at 6:00 PM from Gutterson Fieldhouse. (Live on ESPN+)

• Darcy & Jer: Average at Best
  Time: 8:00 PM
  Location: The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts

• Venetian Trivia Night
  Time: 6:00 PM
  Location: Venetian Soda Lounge

• From Rock ’n’ Roll to Lullabies: Medical Music Therapy at UVM Children’s Hospital
  Time: 8:00 AM
  Location: UVM Medical Center – 1 South Prospect St

• 2025 Spring Job & Internship Fair
  Time: 12:00 PM
  Location: Davis Center 204

• Jazz Night with Ray Vega (Jazz)
  Time: 8:30 PM | Free
  Location: Hotel Vermont, Burlington

• Jazz Sessions (Jazz)
  Time: 9:00 PM | Free
  Location: The 126, Burlington

• Maclan Roberts, Ashna Hille, Jersey Dave, Kaia Ellis, Spencer Bellet (Singer–Songwriters)
  Time: 8:30 PM | $10/$15
  Location: Radio Bean, Burlington

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27

• Women’s Basketball Hosts NJIT on TD Bank Night
  BURLINGTON, Vt. – Vermont (16-12, 11-3 AE) takes on NJIT (11-16, 8-6 AE) at 6:00 PM. Stream the game live on ESPN+.

• RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles
  Time: 7:30 PM
  Location: The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts

• February Dye Batch – “Chocolate Brown”
  Time: 5:00 PM
  Location: 688 Pine St, Suite C

• Blood on the Clocktower w/ Jared
  Time: 6:00 PM
  Location: 3 Mill Street

• Jazz with Alex Stewart and Friends (Jazz)
  Time: 8:30 PM | Free
  Location: The 126, Burlington

• maari (Hip Hop)
  Time: 8:00 PM | $10/$15
  Location: Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington

• Story Tellers with Fattie B. & Craig Mitchell (Hip Hop, Dance)
  Time: 6:30 PM | $30
  Location: Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington

• DJ Chaston (DJ)
  Time: 10:00 PM | Free
  Location: Red Square Blue Room, Burlington

• DJ JP Black (DJ)
  Time: 8:00 PM | Free
  Location: Red Square, Burlington

• DJ Two Sev (DJ)
  Time: 11:00 PM | Free
  Location: Red Square, Burlington

• Trivia Night
  Time: 6:30 PM | Free
  Location: Nectar’s, Burlington

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28

• SWEENEY TODD – A Musical Thriller
  Time: 7:30 PM
  Location: Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center

• Coffee (or Tea) with Tom!
  Time: 8:00 AM
  Location: The Skinny Pancake

• High Fade at Nectar’s
  Time: 8:00 PM
  Location: Nectar’s

• COOP Album Release Show
  Time: 8:00 PM
  Location: Foam Brewers

• Pour Painting
  Time: 7:00 PM
  Location: Burlington Paint and Sip Studio

• Electronic Emulsion Vol. 9 ft/ dj_apez (NYC), Tricky Pat + more
  Time: 8:00 PM
  Location: despacitovt, Burlington

• Gesualdo Six & Owain Park, Director
  Time: 7:30 PM
  Location: 384 S Prospect St

• Friday Night Ballroom
  Time: 6:30 PM
  Location: Vermont Swings

• Coop (Jazz, Funk)
  Time: 8:00 PM | Free
  Location: Foam Brewers, Burlington

• High Fade, One Time Weekend (Funk, Disco)
  Time: 8:00 PM | $15
  Location: Nectar’s, Burlington

• Nice & Smooth, Mister Burns, Devon Dutchmaster (Hip Hop)
  Time: 8:00 PM | $25
  Location: Lounge at Nectar’s, Burlington

• Queer Takeover Two-Year Anniversary Party (Comedy, Drag, Indie, DJ)
  Time: 7:00 PM | $15
  Location: Radio Bean, Burlington

• Rap Night Burlington (Hip Hop)
  Time: 9:00 PM | $5
  Location: Drink, Burlington

• DJ Taka (DJ)
  Time: 11:00 PM | $10/$15
  Location: Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington

• Electronic Emulsion (Electronic)
  Time: 8:00 PM | $10
  Location: Despacito, Burlington

Things to Do (Activities)

Winter in Burlington is here! Let me help reduce that friction keeping you on the couch! Whether you’re up for an outdoor adventure, looking for cozy spots to unwind, or planning a fun night out, there’s plenty to do. From ice skating and winter hikes to trivia nights and hidden speakeasies, we’ve got your guide to making the most of the season. My favorite thing to do is close my eyes and randomly pick one; explore and see where it takes me! Check out our full list of 50+ activities here: Click here to view Things To Do (Activities)

Reddit Community Highlights

Old Pizza Hut: "It's Comin Down"
A local user discusses old Pizza Hut building that’s currently being demolished in Burlington. Click here to read more

Breakfast Debate in Burlington/Williston
Community members share their favorite breakfast spots in the Burlington-Williston area, offering a mix of recommendations and local insights. Click here to read more

Car Theft Caper?
A post speculates that local kids might be behind some recent car thefts, sparking a conversation. Click here to read more

Controversy Over Hinesburg Police Leadership
Residents discuss the outgoing Hinesburg police chief's performance, with many weighing in on the concerns raised in the community. Click here to read more

That’s All, Burlington!

Keep your eyes on that thermometer—it’ll bounce up and down this week. In between snow bursts and potential rain showers, there’s plenty to see and do. If you spot breaking news, have a story tip, or just want to say hi, drop us a note. Stay safe out there, and thanks for reading the Btown Brief. We’ll be back with more on Friday!

Answer: B) Glover’s Family Market and Deli

Burlington Scavenger Hunt – First to Finish Wins $30!

We’re hosting a Burlington Iconic Landmarks Scavenger Hunt, and the first person to capture 7 specific photos around the city wins $30!

The Challenge:
Snap photos of:
✔ Church Street Marketplace
✔ Waterfront Park
✔ City Hall
✔ A local mural or public art
✔ Something orange on Church Street
✔ A creative reflection of Burlington (water, windows, etc.)
✔ A candid moment of local life (farmers market, cool storefront, street musician, etc.)

Be the first to submit all 7 and claim the prize! Plus, your photos may be featured in an upcoming newsletter. You can choose if you want your name tagged with it, or without. Make sure they aren’t old photos you’ve taken before. We may ask to show the timestamps! Send your photos to [email protected] 

⏳ Ready to play? Click here for full details

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