We look forward to it every year , don ’ t we ? Sun-filled days of amber light morphing into cooler , crisp evenings accented by the smell of burning firewood . Driving along curvy , tree-lined back roads for the annual sojourn to the apple orchard , all the while taking in the stunning work of art that is autumn in Vermont .

Stratton Mountain Resort has been recognized by many as one of the best places to take in Vermont ’ s Fall foliage due to its lodging , activities , and annual special events like Harvest- Fest . As the brisk fall air settles over the mountain , the Resort ’ s base area transforms into a hub of Fall activity , where visitors can immerse themselves in the season ’ s gorgeous foliage , sample craft brews and hearty chilis , take in musical performances that range from rock to blues to polka , and enjoy the glorious return of an original Stratton Mountain Resort tradition dating back to its inception : Octoberfest ! This year ’ s two-day event will be a delightful escape into the heart of Fall ’ s splendor .

A Fall Tradition

“ This will be my 10th year here at Stratton , and HarvestFest has been one of our longest running festivals , in different variations , almost since the Resort started . It was started by some Austrians back in the day , and we ’ ve just taken on that tradition . It is very much a must-do at Stratton every single year ,” says Brittni Coe-Petry , Director of Events and Activities . For the seasonal homeowner community , HarvestFest kicks off their time at Stratton , and they are loyal attendees year after year . “ It often is our biggest event of the season , so we really try and make it special ,” adds Brittni .

This year , the Resort anticipates between 4,000 and 5,000 people over the course of the two-day festival that includes the ever-popular BrewFest and Chili Cook-off with main stage musical acts , in addition to a vendor village with more local musicians in the courtyard . And , of course , all the other exciting activities the Resort has to offer are available to HarvestFest revelers , including scenic gondola rides to the top of Southern Vermont ’ s highest peak , a feast for the eyes that is not to be missed .

BrewFest & Chili Cook-off

With 30 different beers available for sampling from craft brewers around the region , the BrewFest part of HarvestFest attracts beer enthusiasts from far and wide . Participating breweries often bring a full sampling of all their beer to appeal to different taste buds - ales , lagers , porters , sours , ciders , and more . “ We hand-select the breweries to participate in the BrewFest and ensure that there is something to eat or drink for everyone ,” shares Kasey Mann , Director of Food and Beverage and proud , native Vermonter . “ Our guests have proven to be craft beer lovers year after year and this event gives our guests and the breweries a chance to connect , sample , and talk all things craft beer in the most beautiful outdoor setting ,” she continues .

“ We do a commemorative glass , a different one every single year ,” says Brittni . “ People enjoy them as keepsakes , and they ’ re often very adorable ,” she adds with a smile . Guests can use their souvenir glass to sip on samples from Von Trapp Brewing , Fiddlehead Brewing , Ten Bends Beer , Frost Beer Works , and Athletic Brewing Non-Alcoholic , to name just a few .

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