Welcome to Vermont! Whether you've recently purchased a home, relocated for work, or have always dreamed of calling the Green Mountain State home, summer is one of the best times to explore everything this beautiful area has to offer. From scenic waterfronts and mountain trails to farmers markets and local festivals, there's no shortage of ways to experience Vermont's unique charm.

If you're new to Burlington or the surrounding communities, here's your guide to making the most of your first Vermont summer.

Spend a Day on Lake Champlain

No introduction to Vermont would be complete without visiting Lake Champlain. As one of the state's greatest natural treasures, the lake becomes the center of activity during the summer months.

Take a walk or bike ride along the Burlington Greenway (formerly the Burlington Bike Path), which stretches for miles along the waterfront and offers breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains. Stop at Waterfront Park, relax by the water, or enjoy an ice cream while watching sailboats cruise across the lake.

If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak, paddleboard, or boat and experience Lake Champlain from the water. Several local outfitters make it easy for beginners to get started.

Explore Church Street Marketplace

One of Burlington's most recognizable destinations is Church Street Marketplace. This brick-paved pedestrian street is filled with locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, bookstores, and outdoor dining.

During the summer, the marketplace comes alive with musicians, street performers, farmers markets, and community events. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon shopping, grabbing lunch, or simply people-watching while enjoying Vermont's relaxed atmosphere.

Visit a Farmers Market

Summer is peak season for fresh Vermont produce, and farmers markets are one of the best ways to experience local agriculture.

The Burlington Farmers Market features everything from fresh vegetables and flowers to maple products, baked goods, local cheeses, handmade crafts, and artisan foods. It's a wonderful way to support local businesses while discovering some of Vermont's most popular products.

Many surrounding communities, including Shelburne, Essex, and South Burlington, also host their own seasonal markets throughout the week.

Hike Vermont's Scenic Trails

One of the biggest perks of living in Vermont is having incredible hiking opportunities just minutes from home.

For beginners, Mount Philo State Park offers one of the most rewarding hikes in the area. The trail is relatively short, and the summit provides panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.

If you're looking for a greater challenge, Camel's Hump and Mount Mansfield offer unforgettable hikes with stunning views from Vermont's highest peaks.

No matter your experience level, Vermont has trails for everyone.

Discover Local Beaches

Many newcomers are surprised to learn just how many beautiful beaches are located around Lake Champlain.

Some local favorites include:

• North Beach in Burlington
• Oakledge Park Beach
• Charlotte Beach
• Sand Bar State Park in Milton

These locations are perfect for swimming, picnicking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water on a warm summer day.

Experience Vermont's Local Food Scene

Summer is the perfect time to explore Vermont's incredible restaurants and breweries.

Grab dinner on an outdoor patio in downtown Burlington, visit one of the area's many farm-to-table restaurants, or sample local craft beer at breweries throughout Chittenden County.

Don't forget to try Vermont favorites like maple creemees, artisan cheeses, fresh cider, and locally roasted coffee.

Living here means you'll quickly discover that supporting local businesses is simply part of everyday life.

Take a Scenic Drive

One of the easiest ways to fall in love with Vermont is by taking a drive through the countryside.

Explore the back roads of Shelburne, Charlotte, Hinesburg, or the Champlain Islands, where rolling farmland, historic barns, mountain views, and peaceful country roads create postcard-worthy scenery around every corner.

Make a day of it by stopping at local farm stands, wineries, orchards, or general stores along the way.

Attend Summer Events

Summer is filled with festivals, concerts, and community gatherings across Vermont.

Some local favorites include:

• Discover Jazz Festival in Burlington
• Fourth of July celebrations throughout Chittenden County
• Outdoor concerts at Waterfront Park
• County fairs and community festivals
• Weekly music performances and movie nights in local parks

These events are a great way to meet neighbors and experience the strong sense of community that makes Vermont such a special place to live.

Explore Nearby Small Towns

While Burlington offers plenty to do, don't forget to explore nearby communities.

Spend an afternoon browsing the shops in Shelburne Village, enjoy waterfront dining in Vergennes, visit the vineyards in Charlotte, or take a ferry ride across Lake Champlain to explore New York's Adirondack region.

One of the biggest advantages of living in Chittenden County is that so many unique destinations are just a short drive away.

Slow Down and Enjoy the Outdoors

Perhaps the best advice for anyone new to Vermont is simply to slow down.

Life here often moves at a different pace. Summer evenings are meant for sitting on the porch, walking through your neighborhood, watching sunsets over the lake, or spending time with family and friends outdoors.

Whether you're hiking a mountain, visiting a local market, enjoying live music downtown, or relaxing at a neighborhood park, you'll quickly discover that Vermont isn't just a place to live—it's a lifestyle.

Welcome Home

Moving to a new area can feel overwhelming, but summer is the perfect season to explore your new community and discover everything Vermont has to offer. From Lake Champlain adventures and scenic hikes to local festivals and charming small towns, there are endless opportunities to make lasting memories.

At Geri Reilly Real Estate, we love helping people not only find a home but also fall in love with the community around it. We hope this guide helps you get started, and welcome to Vermont! There's so much to explore, and your next adventure is just around the corner.

For many people, spring is considered the busiest time to buy a home, but July offers its own unique advantages. With longer days, beautiful weather, and a wide selection of available homes, midsummer can be an excellent time to make your move. Whether you're a first-time buyer, relocating to Vermont, or looking for your forever home, July provides opportunities that are often overlooked.

Here's why buying a home in Vermont during July may be one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Inventory Is Still Strong

One of the biggest advantages of buying in July is that many of the homes listed during the busy spring market are still available, while new listings continue to hit the market throughout the summer.

More inventory means more choices. Instead of feeling limited, buyers often have the opportunity to compare different neighborhoods, home styles, and price points before making a decision.

Having additional options can also help reduce the pressure of feeling like you need to make an offer on the very first home you visit.

Homes Look Their Best

Summer is one of the easiest times to truly appreciate a property's features. Landscaping is in full bloom, gardens are thriving, and outdoor living spaces are fully usable.

Decks, patios, porches, pools, and waterfront access are all on full display during July, allowing buyers to experience the home exactly as they'll enjoy it during Vermont's warmest months.

Natural light is another major advantage. Longer days make it easier to schedule showings after work, while bright sunshine allows buyers to better evaluate the condition of both the home's interior and exterior.

You Can Better Evaluate the Property

Viewing a home during the summer gives buyers the opportunity to inspect details that may be hidden during winter.

You'll be able to evaluate:

• Roof condition
• Exterior siding
• Landscaping
• Drainage around the property
• Outdoor entertaining spaces
• Driveways and walkways
• Waterfront features, if applicable

Seeing the property in full summer conditions can help buyers make a more informed decision.

More Time to Move Before Fall

Buying in July often means closing before school begins and before colder weather arrives.

Families with children appreciate having time to settle into a new home before the school year starts. Others simply enjoy moving during warm weather instead of dealing with snow, ice, or freezing temperatures later in the year.

Getting established before autumn also gives homeowners time to complete projects, meet neighbors, and enjoy their outdoor spaces before winter arrives.

Summer Showcases Vermont Living

Buying a home isn't only about the house itself. It's also about the lifestyle.

July is one of the best months to experience everything Vermont has to offer.

Farmers markets are in full swing.

Lake Champlain is buzzing with boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.

Outdoor concerts, festivals, and community events take place nearly every weekend.

Restaurants open their patios, hiking trails are fully accessible, and local towns feel more vibrant than ever.

Experiencing these activities firsthand can help buyers determine whether a community truly feels like home.

Competition Can Still Exist

Although spring is often considered the busiest season, desirable homes can still attract multiple offers during July.

Well-maintained properties in sought-after locations continue to sell quickly, especially those with waterfront access, mountain views, or updated interiors.

That's why preparation remains important.

Having mortgage pre-approval in hand, understanding your budget, and working closely with an experienced agent can make all the difference when the right home becomes available.

Vacation Homes Are Easier to Experience

July is one of the best times to shop for lake homes, seasonal properties, and vacation homes.

You'll be able to experience everything these homes have to offer, from lake access and beaches to sunsets over Lake Champlain and nearby recreational opportunities.

Rather than imagining what the property might be like in the summer, you'll get to experience it firsthand.

Sellers Are Motivated

Not every home sells immediately during the spring market.

By July, some sellers may be more motivated to negotiate, especially if they've already found their next home or are hoping to close before the end of summer.

Every situation is different, but buyers may occasionally find opportunities that weren't available earlier in the season.

Work With a Local Expert

Every real estate market is different, and Vermont is no exception.

Understanding neighborhood trends, pricing strategies, inspection considerations, and local communities can make the buying process much smoother.

An experienced local real estate team can help you identify opportunities, develop a competitive offer, and guide you through every step of the transaction.

Make This Summer the Start of Something New

July combines beautiful weather, strong inventory, and the opportunity to experience Vermont at its very best. Whether you're searching for your first home, upgrading to your next one, or hoping to find a peaceful retreat near Lake Champlain, summer is an excellent time to begin your search.

If buying a home is one of your goals this year, don't assume you've missed the market. Some of the best opportunities are still waiting, and July could be the perfect time to find the home you've been looking for.

At Geri Reilly Real Estate, we're here to help you navigate every step of the home buying journey. If you're ready to start your search or simply have questions about the current Vermont market, we'd love to help you find your place to call home.

Few holidays bring communities together quite like the Fourth of July. Across Chittenden County, Independence Day is celebrated with fireworks, parades, live music, family activities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful Vermont summer. Whether you're looking for a lively waterfront celebration, a small-town parade, or an evening under the stars watching fireworks, there's something for everyone.

If you're still deciding how to spend the holiday, here are some of the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July around Chittenden County.

Burlington Waterfront

One of the largest and most popular Independence Day celebrations in Vermont takes place along Burlington's Waterfront. Every year, thousands gather at Waterfront Park to enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, family activities, and spectacular views of Lake Champlain.

The highlight of the evening is the fireworks display over the lake. Watching the fireworks reflect off the water with the Adirondack Mountains in the background creates one of Vermont's most memorable Fourth of July experiences.

If you're planning to attend, consider arriving early to find parking and secure a good viewing spot. Bringing lawn chairs or a blanket makes for a comfortable evening while you enjoy the festivities.

Essex Junction

Essex Junction is another favorite destination for families during the holiday. The Champlain Valley Exposition typically hosts an evening filled with entertainment, carnival rides, games, food vendors, and fireworks.

The atmosphere is family-friendly and offers something for all ages. Children can enjoy the rides and activities while adults take advantage of the live music and food before gathering for the fireworks finale.

Colchester

If you're looking for a classic hometown celebration, Colchester offers a full day of Fourth of July fun. The community parade is a longtime tradition that brings together local organizations, businesses, and residents for a festive morning.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy community events before ending the evening with fireworks. The welcoming atmosphere makes Colchester a wonderful place to celebrate with neighbors and friends.

Williston

Williston continues to host one of Chittenden County's favorite community celebrations. The day often includes a parade, family activities, local food vendors, and an evening fireworks display.

It's a great option for anyone looking for a relaxed celebration while still enjoying all the excitement that comes with Independence Day.

Hinesburg

For those who appreciate small-town charm, Hinesburg offers a traditional Vermont Fourth of July celebration. The community gathers for a parade featuring local organizations, classic cars, community groups, and plenty of patriotic spirit.

The celebration continues throughout the day with food, music, family activities, and fireworks after sunset. It's an excellent choice for families looking for a more laid-back holiday experience.

Shelburne

Shelburne provides a unique way to celebrate Independence Day with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra's annual performance at the Shelburne Museum. Guests can bring blankets and picnic dinners while enjoying live music on the museum grounds before fireworks light up the night sky.

The combination of music, beautiful scenery, and fireworks creates an unforgettable summer evening.

Enjoy Vermont's Small-Town Celebrations

One of the things that makes Vermont so special is the number of local communities that come together to celebrate the Fourth of July. Nearly every town puts its own spin on the holiday with parades, barbecues, live music, road races, and community gatherings.

These events provide the perfect opportunity to support local businesses, reconnect with neighbors, and enjoy everything that makes Vermont communities so unique.

Tips for Planning Your Day

The Fourth of July is one of the busiest weekends of the summer, so planning ahead can make your day much more enjoyable.

Arrive early if you're attending fireworks or a parade, as parking fills quickly. Bring sunscreen, water, folding chairs, and blankets if you plan to spend the day outdoors. If you're attending a fireworks show, be prepared for heavier traffic when the event ends.

If you're celebrating near Lake Champlain, remember that evenings by the water can become cooler after sunset, so bringing a light jacket is always a good idea.

Celebrate Safely

As exciting as the holiday is, safety should always come first. Follow local guidelines regarding fireworks, stay hydrated during the day, and designate a driver if you'll be attending celebrations with friends and family.

Respecting local parks and public spaces by cleaning up after yourself helps keep Vermont beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

Happy Fourth of July!

Whether you're watching fireworks over Lake Champlain, enjoying a hometown parade, listening to live music, or simply spending time with family and friends, the Fourth of July is a wonderful reminder of what makes Vermont communities so special.

From Burlington's bustling waterfront to the welcoming celebrations in Essex Junction, Colchester, Williston, Hinesburg, and Shelburne, there are countless ways to celebrate Independence Day throughout Chittenden County.

Wherever you choose to spend the holiday, we hope you have a safe, relaxing, and memorable Fourth of July. Happy Independence Day from all of us at Geri Reilly Real Estate!