| VOLUME 30 | * * All Arts News On the Web * * | March 26, 2026 |
ArtBits always features a calendar of the goings on of Franklin County artists. Check out these events around Franklin County. Each issue includes the entire text of our weekly newspaper column. STUFF YOU SHOULDN'T MISS
Franklin County's arts and music gatherings bring new opportunities, gossip, "show-and-tell" and occasional workshops. There are also booked and acoustic Open Mic Nights that feature music, readings, and more from the best new artists in Vermont.
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ART ON THE WALLS
ST. ALBANS--The Artist In Residence collection spotlight is on potter Martha McGinn. The art and fine craft cooperative features paintings, fiber arts, stained glass, sculpture, lamps, pottery, folk art boxes, scarves, hats and more by 38 Franklin County and surrounding area artists. It is owned and operated by the artists and sponsors. The gallery on South Main Street is open Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click here or find them on Facebook for more info.
JEFFERSONVILLE--Bryan Memorial Gallery features local artists at the Affordable Art Fair. It is in the heart of the Chelsea and on Facebook .
The gallery has exhibits of the landscape painters of New England. The main showcase in Jeffersonville is open Wednesday-Sunday 11 - 4 and the Stowe Gallery is open Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 11 - 4, and Friday and Saturday, 11 - 5. Appointments are available. Call ahead (802.644.5100) to schedule or click here for more info.
ART YOU CREATE
ST. ALBANS--14th Star Brewing Company hosts a Pet Portraits Paint n Sip with Linda Oakes Carvalho this evening at 6:30 p.m. Register for the class, email a clear image of your pet, and show up. All supplies are included. Food and beverages are available from 14th Star and Black Radish. The cost is $50. Click here or find them on Facebook to register and for more info.
FAIRFIELD--Hearthside Handcrafts meet at Bent Northrop Memorial Library on Friday at 10:30 a.m. Fiber arts and crafting enthusiasts bring their own projects and connect to share skills and create memories on the second and fourth Fridays of each month. Click here for more info.
MORRISVILLE--River Arts hosts the in-person, March "Sip n' Slurry: Hanging Planter" with Chiara Keeling as the pottery twist on a Paint n' Sip on Friday at 6 p.m. Craft a functional and sculptural planter while experimenting with clay.
The cost is $65. Click here to enroll and for more info.
HIGHGATE--Coffee and Crafts meets at the Highgate Library and Community Center on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Materials and a hot coffee, tea, or cocoa are provided by HLCC. The program runs every Tuesday morning and is free adult library patrons. Email or call the Library (802.868.3970) to register and for more info.
ENOSBURG--Sip, Stitch, & Share meets at the Enosburgh Public Library every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Have a warm drink, learn a new craft (or work on honing an existing one), and chat. Any craft is welcome. Click here for more info.
MILTON--The Milton Artists' Guild hosts Yarn & Yak with Kelli Shepherd on Wednesday at 5 - 7 p.m. The free, drop-in workshop is for projects to knit, crochet, or craft with fiber. All skill levels are welcome. No registration is required.
DANCE
ALBURG--Between the Lines Line Dancing offers Beginner Line Dancing at the American Legion Landon Post #60 on Fridays at 6 p.m. Bring clean, dry shoes to change into and dance in. Admission is by $5 donation per class, which is donated to the Alburgh Volunteer Fire Department. Find them on Facebook for more info.
HIGHGATE--The Highgate Manor offers Beginner Line Dancing with Michelle Nordberg on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. The class will teach progressive dance rhythms to varied genres of today's music. Line dance is not limited to country music. No experience needed. Bring clean, dry shoes to change into and dance in. Admission is $10 per class. Find them on Facebook for more info.
GATHERINGS
FAIRFAX--Sarah Barnes leads Sketchbook Club at the Fairfax Community Library on Tuesday at 3 p.m. The relaxed space is open to all ages and all skill levels to draw, try new art media, and build an artistic community. Bring your own supplies but materials will be provided.
ST. ALBANS--First Baptist Church hosts a free Christian Artists Afternoon and Open House on Saturday at 1 - 4 p.m. The aftrenoon gathering offers chats with artists of numerous disciplines to learn about their art and inspirations, their faith and artistic journeys. Works will be available for purchase. email for more info.
MORRISVILLE--The River Arts Open Studio Community and Wellness Space for LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Allies continues on Wednesday at 6 p.m. Admission is free. The program creates "an inclusive, affirming, and creative space that promotes connection, belonging, and wellness through art and reflection." Participants can engage in themed art-making, journaling, and discussion together.
Open Studio will continue every other week through May 27. Click here for more info.
HUMANITIES
ST. ALBANS--The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Spring 2026 season continues with scientist and science writer Rebecca Rupp to discuss Paul Revere's Rum, Ethan Allen's Cider, and Bathtub Gin: An Eccentric History of Alcohol in the Greg Brown Lodge this morning at 11 a.m. Dr. Rupp will trace "humankind's long and conflicted relationship with alcohol including drunken monkeys, Sumerian beer, the dark side of rum, and how Madeira wine fueled the American Revolution."
The weekly series will offer eight lectures, mostly on Thursdays. A St. Albans series membership is $40 individual/$70 couple for all eight events, or $10 per program if purchased individually. Call 802.656.8407 or Email for registration questions. Click here for more info.
ST. ALBANS--Vermont Humanities and the Saint Albans Museum present historian J. Kevin Graffagnino to discuss Conseulo Northrop Bailey: A Vermont Pathfinder as part of the SAM Talks series This afternoon at 4 p.m. Ms. Bailey was a national pioneer among women in public service. Born and raised in Fairfield, she was one of the first women to serve as a state's attorney, as speaker of the state house of representatives, and as lieutenant-governor. These talks are free and open to the public. Click here for more info.
FRANKLIN--The Dick Wright Pub celebrates Women's History Month with Franklin's Silent Generation with Mandi Gates on Friday at 5:30 p.m. The "Her"story night will feature memories and pictures from and about the Franklin women born from 1928-1945. The event will also be live streamed. Click here for more info.
MONTPELIER--In this special Farmers' Night program, David Budbill's daughter, Nadine Budbill, and actors Abby Paige and Mark S. Roberts for The Poetry of a Place & Its People, a dramatic reading and discussion of the poetry that became Judevine at the Vermont State House on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Email or click here for more info.
WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
MORRISVILLE--River Arts has four other workshops this week.
Crochet 101: Foundations & First Project with Carmella Cyr concludes today at 4 p.m. The two-part workshop is designed for absolute beginners. This second session will cover how to create rows of single crochet and how to properly turn the work at the end of each row. Participants will make a beginner-friendly Mug Rug. The cost is $60. Click here to register and for more info.
Jen Volansky explores Archetypes in Art in a Mixed Media Workshop this evening at 5:30 p.m. This mindful art class offers space to loosen up and let the imagination wander using simple archetypes like the Hero, the Rebel, and the Explorer as jumping-off points. the cost is $30. Click here to register and for more info.
Chiara No leads the free Creative Art Series for 60+ Session 3, Scrap Fabric/Yarn Weaving on Friday at 10 a.m. The series takes place every Friday morning and covers a variety of art disciplines from painting and ceramics to bookmaking, writing, and even creative clothes mending. Click here for more info and to register for this free workshop.
Evie Mason continues the Watercolor Escape, Landscapes, Cityscapes & Seascapes Session 2 on Wednesday at 6 p.m. The session will include demonstrations, skill-building exercises, and plenty of time for hands-on painting with personalized feedback. The cost is $40 for a single workshop or $105 for all three. Click here to register and for more info.
JEFFERSONVILLE--Lise-Anne Cooledge and Jen Thompson from ReMarketVT will lead a special workshop in Beeswax Wrap and Candle-making at the Bryan Memorial Gallery on Saturday at 10 a.m. Participants will learn how to make reusable food wraps and hand poured candles using natural wax. The cost is $80 for members and $90 for non-members. Click here to register and for more info.
FRANKLIN--The Franklin Arts Department concludes the three part Painting Series: Franklin Scenes with Jordan Bushey at the Dick Wright Pub on Saturday at 2 p.m. The class will work through all the steps to paint Franklin scenes. The cost is $40 per class which includes all materials. Join for one class, or all three. Free registration is available for folks 65+ through a grant from the Vermont Arts Council. Email to check scholarship availability. Click here or stop by the Pub to register. Click here for more info.
JEFFERSONVILLE--60 Main Arts (SMArts) hosts two classes each week.
Community Drawing Night has a live model on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. The cost of $10 per person or less includes a "split model fee."
Creativi-Tea Tuesdays with Karen Winslow uses watercolor, gouache, and pastel pencils, and include tea and cookies on Tuesday at 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.The cost is $30 per person, seniors free. The free Seniors class meets on the first Tuesday of each month.
MILTON--The Milton Artists' Guild has four workshops this week.
Cindi LaFayette's Resin Ocean Wave Charcuterie Board Workshop at the MAG Art Center is sold out this evening at 6 p.m. The board is crafted with an ocean wave design set on natural wood. The resin is FDA-approved for food use. The cost is $60 for members and $65 for non-members. Click here to register and for more info.
Julia Davenport guides An Easter Zentangle Eggztravaganza on Friday at 6 p.m. Participants will create Easter-inspired Zentangle patterns on a small scale using just a few simple supplies with touches of color to bring the designs to life. Zentangle is a drawing technique invented by the monk Rick Roberts and artist Maria Thomas to combine meditation and art. Beginners are always welcome. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Click here to register and for more info.
Annelein Beukenkamp leads Blooming Bold Blossoms--A Spring Watercolor Workshop on Saturday at 11 a.m. Participants are responsible for supplying their own materials and will work from a variety of blooms and photographic references. The cost is $80 for members and $85 for non-members. Click here to register and for more info.
Social Sundays continue at the MAG Art Center with free weekly art classes for families at MAG on Sunday at 1 p.m. Each week offers a different project. Stay for 30 minutes or the whole two hours. Click here for more info.
MONTGOMERY--Annette Goyne concludes the Spring 2026 Watercolor Classes at Montgomery Center for the Arts on Sunday at 1 p.m. This class to paint eggs will explore how to build spheres in two-dimensions, the color mixes best for portraying eggs, and the shadows they cast, and more. Each class is $35 or $90 for all three sessions. Email or click here to register and for more info.
ON STAGE LIVE
NORTH HERO--Live Music on Thursdays at North Hero House are for "Build Your Own Burger, Wash it down with a Beer." This week, the series continues with Bart Feller live this evening at 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ST. ALBANS--Twiggs hosts the BFA Improv Team in The Backroom this evening at 6 p.m. This event is a fundraiser for The Samaritan House in St. Albans with a suggested $5 donation at the door. Call 802.524.1405 or find them on Facebook for more info. Click here to book a reservation or to visit the art on the walls.
ST. ALBANS--BFA hosts the Rock Band Show with A-319, along with bands from BFA, SATEC, SACS, and MVU in the Performing Arts Center this evening at 7 p.m. There will be music from Stevie Wonder, Player, Primus, Radiohead, the Beatles and many more with "a great sound system and light show," Eric Bushey said. A-319 is a high-energy modern rock band that performs at community events including the Festival of Trees. Admission is free.
Thursday-Saturday, March 26-28
ESSEX JUNCTION--On Tap starts a weekend of music with a Tim Brick Happy Hour tonight at 5 p.m. and Nighthawk returns Friday for late night music starting at 9 p.m. Call 802.878.3309 or email for more info. Click here to reserve a table.
MORRISVILLE--Moog's Place has music. Open Mic with Michael Perry happens every Thursday. The Shady Trees return Friday. Music starts at 8 o'clock. "Come hang out." Find them on Facebook for more info.
Friday, March 27
ESSEX JUNCTION--Sparky's presents Dan Parks live on Friday at 5 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
COLCHESTER--Chris & Issy play acoustic music sets in the live and free Friday Night Live Music at the Spanked Puppy on Friday at 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SHELDON--The Abbey Friday Night Music Series often has live performances on Friday about 6:30 p.m. Reservations are suggested. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SOUTH HERO--George Murtie plays the Wine Down Music series at Snow Farm Vineyard on Fridayevening at 6:30 p.m. The music series continues with well known musicians, wine, and food every Thursday. Click here for more info.
NORTH HERO--The North Hero Fire Department Auxiliary hosts their 4th annual Cabin Fever Dance with Quadra to shake a leg and break out of those winter blues at the North Hero Community Hall on Friday at 7 - 10 p.m. A cash bar will be available from Snow Farm Vineyard and Kraemer & Kin.Admission is $30. Wrist bands can be purchased at Harborside Market, Hero's Welcome, Island Auto Haven and Kraemer & Kin or call Colleen Shaw (802.372.1084) for VENMO sales. All proceeds goto the Fire Department to purchase gear. Call Grace Edwards (802.372.3134) for more info.
ST. ALBANS--Burlington Baroque presents Johann Sebastian Bach's St John's Passion at Holy Angels Catholic Church on Friday at 7:30 p.m. This performance will feature the rarely heard 1725 version in a regional premiere of the musical journey through Christ's final days. Bach's work is a powerful, emotional gateway into the drama of Holy Week. Directed by Eric Milnes, the concert features the Burlington Baroque Festival Singers with renowned soloists the and period instrument ensemble L'Harmonie des saisons. Admission is $10-80. Click here for tickets and more info.
SOUTH BURLINGTON--Northern Lights makes their debut with high energy country music at the Old Post on Friday at 8 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
Friday-Sunday, March 27-29
ST. ALBANS--The Taphouse at Mill River has shows on Friday and Saturday nights in March. Sleeveless Tease featuring Narah Sparks plays Friday and the Buck Hollers return live on Saturday. Music starts about 6 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
SOUTH HERO--Two Heroes Brewery has music most weeks. The Bushey/Bedell Trio takes the stage on Friday and the Dale and Darcy Band plays live on Saturday. Music starts at 6 p.m. Click here for more info.
ST. ALBANS--Twiggs often has shows on Friday and Saturday nights. This week they host Phil Graziano on Friday and George Murtie live on Saturday night. Music starts about 6:30 p.m. Call 802.524.1405 or find them on Facebook for more info. Click here to book a reservation or to visit the art on the walls.
Saturday, March 28
EAST FAIRFIELD--The 2026 Meeting House Music Series begins with three mandolins. One stage. The four-man Vermont Mandolin Trio returns to the Meeting House on the Green on Saturday at 5 p.m. "Doors" at 4. Matt Flinner, Jamie Masefield, Will Patton, and bassist Pat Melvin reach from the roots of bluegrass to the swing of Django Reinhardt and add a touch of J.S. Bach for an evening of "happy sounding" music.
Grab and Go light fare and desserts will be available for sale or bring your own picnic.
Admission is $10 at the door. Well behaved dogs on leashes are welcome and kids under 12 are free, as long as they accompany a responsible adult. The proceeds go to the Meeting House Preservation Project and supporting live music in Vermont. This show will be indoors. Call Nance Shaw (802.827.6626) or click here for more info.
FRANKLIN--The Dick Wright Pub presents Nathan Michaud Live at the Pub on Saturday at 6 p.m. Admission is by suggested donation of $10. Click here for more info.
ESSEX--Experience Queen with Jesse Agan at the Double E on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Doors at 6:30. Mr. Agan honors the unique voice of Freddie Mercury, along with the complex music that Queen brought to life in every show. This show will offer the iconic music with powerhouse vocals, tight musicianship, and electrifying stage energy on a musical journey through We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions, Another One Bites The Dust, Bohemian Rhapsody, and more. Admission is $30. Click here for tickets and more info.
BRATTLEBORO--The Young Tradition Vermont Touring Group performs an evening of Scandinavian Dance at the Retreat Farm on Saturday night at 7 p.m. This year's performances feature a diverse program of the traditional musical influences of Scandinavia, as well music rooted in Québec and greater New England. Admission is by a suggested donation of $20 at the door. Proceeds go to support the performance tour of Sweden. Click here for more info
Sunday, March 29
KEY COLONY BEACH, FL--Get yer pirate on as Music by the Inch presents Captain Radical, Summer Sounds favorite Mark Shelton, live at Inch Beach on Sunday at 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Aaargh!
Tuesday, March 31
SOUTH HERO--Doug's Open Mic Night comes to Two Heroes Brewery on Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. Sign up in-person only from 5 - 5:30. Open Mic happens every other Tuesday. Click here for more info.
Wednesday, April 1
SWANTON--Located in the historic Champlain Theater building, the Green Mountain Bistro has live music every Wednesday night from 6 - 8 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.
ALMOST LIVE ON STAGE
Virtual music and events continue this week.
Local writer DonnaRae Menard talks about her books, her career, and her life on NW Access TV and on YouTube. She recently concluded her weekly read of her St. Albans mystery novel, Beneath The Fountain, on NW Access TV.
The Artisan Spotlight Series highlights the work of Linda Longtoe Sheehan on YouTube.
FRANKLIN COUNTY BOOKSHELF
FAIRFAX--The Fairfax Community Library Book Club takes up Becoming Duchess Goldblatt by Anonymous this afternoon at 3 p.m. The 2020 memoir chronicles how the author created this 81-year-old, witty, and compassionate, and wildly popular, fictional persona on Twitter. Call the library (802.849.2420) or email for more info or for the Zoom link to attend remotely.
HIGHGATE--The Highgate Library and Community Center continues the Muffin Monday Senior Social Hour on Monday at 10 a.m. The program is a community connect to brainstorm opportunities for senior support. Each week will also include coffee and tea, as well as fresh pastries. The program will run every Monday morning and is free for anyone 55 and older. Registration is mandatory as space is limited. Call the Library (802.868.3970) to register and for more info.
SHELDON--The Sheldon Municipal Library Book Club reads The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins today at 7 p.m. The NY Times bestseller is a psychological thriller about an unreliable narrator who rides the train to London every day to pretend that she has a job.
Good News!There are so many events around the region that we miss some of them.Be sure to check these calendars for what's happening near you ... |
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Music!Links to the Summer Music series in Franklin County |
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