Unearthing the Enchanting Spirituality and Romance of Vermont's Holiday Season

In the picturesque, idyllic mountains of Vermont, where time seems to slow down and nature enchants with its breathtaking beauty, there is a unique celebration of the holiday season that encompasses both deep spirituality and light-hearted romance. From charming villages to serene landscapes, this corner of New England offers an array of events and traditions that captivate the soul and warm the heart.

One cannot talk about Vermont's holiday season without mentioning the cherished tradition of Christmas Eve candlelight services. The ethereal glow of candles flickering in historic churches like St. Mary's (38 Church St, Burlington) or Old First Congregational Church (27 North Champlain St, Burlington) creates a sense of reverence and reflection as locals gather to celebrate their faith.

For those seeking a more unconventional spiritual experience during this magical time, there is no better place than Brattleboro's Winter Solstice Lantern Walk. As darkness falls on December 21st each year, participants carry handcrafted lanterns through downtown streets (starting at Pliny Park), symbolizing their connection with natures cycles and renewing hope for brighter days ahead. Inspired by ancient Celtic traditions, this enchanting event harkens back to a time when humans were intimately tied to our natural world.

While these spiritual celebrations offer solace for one's inner peace during the winter months in Vermont, there are also moments meant purely for merriment and enchantment. Take for example Montpelier's Festival for Fools held annually on April 1st though not strictly within winter but still embodies whimsy amidst snow-dusted streets near City Hall where it unfolds from noon until nightfall promising laughter-filled performances by clowns from around world never fails entertain with slapstick antics guaranteed tickle funny bone everyone attendance

Another delightful diversion awaits those who venture out into the snow-covered hills of Stowe. Here, couples can partake in a romantic sleigh ride, with horses adorned in jingling bells whisking them through quaint villages and scenic landscapes (Green Mountain Horse Association - 317 North Main Street, South Woodstock). As the crisp winter air kisses their cheeks and they snuggle under cozy blankets, it's impossible not to feel transported into a world straight out of a Robert Frost poem.

For those seeking a more communal celebration that connects with Vermont's authentic culture, there's nothing quite like the Burlington Winter Festival (Waterfront Park), where locals gather to celebrate all aspects of this season. From ice carving competitions to live music performances by local artists at nearby venues such as Higher Ground (1214 Williston Road, South Burlington), this festival is an ode to both nature's beauty and artistic expression.

As I embark on my own journey through Vermont during this holiday season, I am reminded of Edna St. Vincent Millays words: I will arise and go now, for always night or day / I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore; / While I stand on the roadway or on the pavements gray. The poetry inherent in these moments gives life depth and meaning while providing respite from our hectic modern lives.

So if you find yourself yearning for an escape from your bustling city existence whether it be New York City or Boston - venture forth into Vermont's romantic idylls and discover its spiritual soul. Immerse yourself in candlelit churches, lantern-lit streets,and whimsical festivals that bring joy amidst natures bountiful beauty. Let Vermont work its magic upon you during this enchanting time of year.

Websites:

St Mary's Church: www.stmaryvt.org

Old First Congregational Church: www.oldfirstchurchburlington.org

Brattleboro Winter Solstice Lantern Walk: www.brattleborolitfest.org

Green Mountain Horse Association: www.gmhainc.org

Burlington Winter Festival: www.btowinterfestival.com

Higher Ground: www.highergroundmusic.com

Twitter handles:

St Mary's Church: @stmaryvt

Old First Congregational Church: @oldfirstchurchbtv

Brattleboro Literary Festival: @bratlitfest

Higher Ground: @higherground