As the weather starts to cool down, food, fitness, and foliage are on the docket during September at ski areas across New England. Here’s a look at some of the events happening at a resort near you. Of course, as with everything during this era of COVID protocol, be sure to check ahead for any updates or cancellations.
Sept. 3-5: A Taste of New England, Stowe, Vt. — A host of New England’s top chefs will descend upon Spruce Peak for this weekend of sampling extraordinary plates and drinks. A variety of packages for the weekend, including lodging options, are available at www.sprucepeak.com/tone.
Sept. 4: Blues, Brews and BBQ, Stratton, Vt. — Catch live blues music while sampling local Vermont beers and ciders. Stratton’s team of talented chefs will be firing up the grills and preparing the best offerings in barbecue recipes for all to enjoy throughout the day. www.stratton.com/things-to-do/events/blues-brews-and-bbq
Sept. 4: 26th Annual Mount Snow Brewers Festival, Mount Snow, Vt. — Enjoy a day immersed in the Vermont beer culture at this annual favorite. www.mountsnow.com
Sept. 4-5: Jay Peak Trail Running Festival, Jay Peak, Vt. — Join this unique trail-running experience with seven different races for all abilities. Register at jaypeaktrailrun.com.
Sept. 4-5 Labor Day Weekend Craft Fair, Gunstock Mountain, N.H. — More than 85 exhibitors will show off their unique creations at the New Hampshire ski area over two days. www.gunstock.com
Sept. 10-11: Smuggs Fall Fest, Smugglers Notch, Vt. — Zack Nugent highlights a weekend of music, craft beer, and food by bringing some Grateful Dead vibes to the Vermont resort. www.smuggs.com/pages/fall/activities/fallfest.php
Sept. 11-12: Spartan Race, Killington, Vt. — Expect “steep slopes, off-trail descents, massive climbs, and chilly swims” at the birthplace at this endurance race. Be forewarned; the “course has been known to destroy those not prepared in their mind, body, legs and soul.” Register at race.spartan.com/en/race/detail/7239/overview
Sept. 11: Gunstock Ascension Race, Gunstock, N.H. — Run or walk to the summit of the mountain, then take a chairlift ride back down before you do it all again. How many laps can you fit in over either three or six hours? Register at www.kalepolandfitness.com/get-started.
Sept. 18: Maine Brew Fest, Sunday River, Maine — Taste up to 100 different samples of craft beer and cider from over 20 Maine breweries. The $47 cost includes access and live music. VIP entry ($57) affords an hour of early access prior to general admission. — www.sundayriver.com/events/maine-brew-fest
Sept. 18: Okemo Mountain Taps and Tastes, Okemo Mountain Resort, Vt. — Sample craft beer and food in the Jackson Gore courtyard. $45. www.okemo.com
Sept. 18-19: BBQ Fest, Wachusett Mountain, Mass. — There will be barbecue food trucks galore to go along with crafters and live entertainment. Tickets: $18 in advance, $21 at the door. Package includes SkyRide. Purchase at www.wachusett.com/Events-Racing/On-Mountain-Events/BBQ-Fest.aspx#Tickets
Sept. 25-26: Foliage Lift Rides, Mad River Glen, Vt. — Get a peek at some of Vermont’s most stunning foliage at one of its most-renowned ski areas. www.madriverglen.com/event-calendar/
Sept. 25-26: KidsFest, Wachusett Mountain, Mass. — Magic, food trucks, and lumberjacking are on the agenda for this weekend festival. Tickets can be purchased at www.wachusett.com/Events-Racing/On-Mountain-Events/KidsFest.aspx.
