Free Family Activities in Burlington, VT — Burlington, VT

Quick Answer

Burlington, VT offers a variety of free activities for families with kids, including parks, festivals, and community events. Enjoy the outdoors and local culture without spending a dime.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is designed for families living in or visiting Burlington, Vermont, looking for budget-friendly activities to engage children of all ages. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist, you will find enjoyable experiences that cater to various interests and age groups.

Neighborhoods Mentioned in This Guide

Burlington is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and offerings. This guide will highlight activities in the following areas:

• Downtown: The vibrant heart of the city, filled with shops and events.
• East Side: Known for its parks and family-friendly atmosphere.
• North Side: A quieter area with community spaces.
• West Side: Features recreational areas and scenic views.
• South Side: Offers a mix of urban and natural attractions.

Free Outdoor Activities

Burlington is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous parks and natural spaces where families can enjoy free activities. Here are some top spots to explore:

Waterfront Park

Located along the shores of Lake Champlain, Waterfront Park is perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors. Kids can run around the open fields, and the park often hosts free community events, concerts, and festivals throughout the summer.

• Activities: Picnicking, walking or biking along the scenic path, and playing at the playground.
• Tip: Check the park's calendar for free summer concerts and local festivals.

Oakledge Park

This expansive park on the South Side features beautiful views of the lake, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It also has trails that lead down to the waterfront, making it a great spot for families to explore nature.

• Activities: Hiking, playing at the playground, and enjoying the beach area.
• Tip: Bring a kite or frisbee for some added fun!

Ethan Allen Park

Located on the North Side, Ethan Allen Park offers a mix of wooded trails and open spaces. The park also has an observation tower that provides panoramic views of Burlington and Lake Champlain.

• Activities: Hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching.
• Tip: Visit in the fall for stunning foliage views!

Community Events and Festivals

Burlington hosts a variety of free community events and festivals throughout the year, making it easy for families to get involved and enjoy local culture.

Burlington Farmer's Market

Every Saturday from May to October, the Burlington Farmer's Market transforms City Hall Park into a bustling hub of local produce, crafts, and entertainment. Families can enjoy live music while browsing stalls.

• Activities: Sampling local foods, live performances, and children's activities.
• Tip: Arrive early to find the best parking and enjoy a leisurely stroll.

First Night Burlington

This annual New Year's Eve celebration offers a family-friendly atmosphere with free entertainment, including live music, performances, and arts and crafts. It's a great way to ring in the new year with the community.

• Activities: Enjoying performances, participating in art activities, and watching fireworks at midnight.
• Tip: Dress warmly, as events are held outdoors!

Burlington City Arts (BCA) Events

BCA regularly hosts free art events and exhibitions that are perfect for families. The BCA Center, located in Downtown, often features family-friendly activities and workshops.

• Activities: Exploring art installations, attending free workshops, and participating in community art projects.
• Tip: Check their website for upcoming events and exhibitions.

Visiting Local Libraries

Burlington's public libraries are great resources for families looking for free educational activities.

Fletcher Free Library

The Fletcher Free Library, located in the South Side, offers various programs for children, including storytime sessions, art classes, and summer reading programs. The library also has a lovely outdoor garden where kids can explore.

• Activities: Storytime, craft sessions, and reading challenges.
• Tip: Sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on events.

Books for Kids Program

Burlington has a special initiative that focuses on providing free books to children in need. Families can participate in various reading events that promote literacy and a love for books.

• Activities: Book giveaways, reading challenges, and community events.
• Tip: Visit local schools for special events related to this program.

Neighborhood Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at what each neighborhood in Burlington offers for families seeking free activities:

Downtown

• Waterfront Park: Ideal for outdoor fun and community events.
• Burlington Farmer's Market: Enjoy local culture and fresh produce.

East Side

• Oakledge Park: Perfect for picnics and nature walks.
• Community Events: Look for seasonal festivals and gatherings.

North Side

• Ethan Allen Park: Great for hiking and nature exploration.
• Local Libraries: Participate in storytime and reading programs.

West Side

• Parks and Recreation Areas: Ideal for sports and outdoor play.
• Community Centers: Check for free activities and workshops.

South Side

• Fletcher Free Library: Offers educational programs for kids.
• Community Events: Engage with local festivals and fairs.

Conclusion

Burlington, VT, is a wonderful city for families seeking free activities to enjoy with their kids. From parks and outdoor spaces to community events and local libraries, there are numerous options that cater to various interests and age groups. Embrace the local culture, explore the natural beauty, and create lasting memories without spending a fortune.

Neighborhoods to Explore in Burlington

• [living in East Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/east-side)
• [family fit in North Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/north-side)
• [family fit in West Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/west-side)
• [family fit in South Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/south-side)
• [living in Downtown](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/downtown)
• [family fit in East Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/east-side)
• [living in West Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/west-side)
• [Downtown neighborhood guide](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/downtown)
• [family fit in South Side](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/south-side)
• [North Side neighborhood guide](/vt/burlington/neighborhoods/north-side)

Related Guides for Burlington

• [Things to Do in Burlington With Kids](/vt/burlington/guides/family-activities-burlington-vt)
• [Best Neighborhoods in Burlington for Retirees](/vt/burlington/guides/best-neighborhoods-burlington-tx-retirees)
• [Best Neighborhoods in Burlington for First-Time Movers](/vt/burlington/guides/best-neighborhoods-burlington-wv-first-time-movers)
• [Best Neighborhoods Near Downtown Burlington](/vt/burlington/guides/burlington-neighborhoods-guide)
• [How Much Does It Cost to Live Comfortably in Burlington?](/vt/burlington/guides/cost-to-live-comfortably-in-burlington)
• [Burlington Cost of Living vs National Average](/vt/burlington/guides/burlington-cost-of-living-vs-national-average)

Helpful Burlington Tools

• [Get your Burlington CityFit Report](/vt/burlington/cityfit-report)
• [Burlington City Guide hub](/vt/burlington)
• [All Burlington guides](/vt/burlington/guides)
• [Events in Burlington](/vt/burlington/events)
• [Moving to Burlington](/vt/burlington/move-in)