Winter Carnival activities
BRATTLEBORO - Brattleboro has been bustling with Winter Carnival festivities. Ski jumping at Harris Hill kicked off Saturday, followed by a week of all kinds of fun events and activities. Retreat Farm will be at the center of the action with events happening every day in and around the farm.
Learn the syrup process
On Friday, February 25, from 10 am to 3 pm, join Retreat Farm for its first maple open house. See the evaporator in action, learn about how sap turns into syrup, and hopefully sample some sweetness from a small educational sugarbush.
Win ice fishing prizes
On Saturday, February 26, from 6 am to 3 pm, the ice fishing derby will be held. Grab fishing gear, a thermos, and lunch, and head to Wantastegok (Retreat Meadows) for a fun-filled day of ice fishing. Prizes will be awarded by age class. Registration starts at 5:30 am on the ice. No pre-registration is necessary. Help Retreat Farm continue to organize the derby by purchasing a 50/50 raffle ticket. All proceeds and donations from the event will go toward keeping this event free and a continuing local tradition.
Learn how to ice fish
Also on Saturday, from 12:15 to 3 pm, people new to ice fishing can learn the basics from the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s intro to ice fishing clinic. Topics covered will include safety, equipment, regulations, and more, providing attendees with the skills to ice fish on their own. All equipment will be provided. Participants should dress for the weather and bring plenty of hot chocolate, as well as a bucket or chair to sit on. Registration is required. Register now at https://vtfishandwildlife.com/calendar/month/fishingclinics.
Play a traditional game
On Sunday, February 27, from noon to 3 pm. The Atowi Project and the Elnu Abenaki Band invite all community members to participate. Snow snake is a traditional game played during the winter months featuring a slicked track, carved wooden snow snake, and a community of players. Refreshments and snacks will be provided. Extra snow snakes will be available for those that wish to participate. The competition and gathering will take place on the ice. All are welcome to either play or enjoy the company at the gathering. All ages and abilities are welcome.
