A Summer Tradition, Tuned for America’s 250th: Vermont Symphony Orchestra's Summer Festival Tour Returns

Is there anything better than live music under the stars in Vermont? How about a picnic blanket, along with a dash of iconic American music in some of Vermont’s most beautiful outdoor venues?

To celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday, the VSO’s Summer Festival Tour: America 250 brings a lineup of iconic American music to the outdoor stage from July 1-5, 2026.

Vermont Symphony Orchestra Summer Concert

This joyful program is traveling to six picture-perfect locations across the Green Mountain State, bringing you a soundtrack that pairs perfectly with golden hour and a good Vermont picnic.

What’s in this Year’s Mix?

Whether you’re a die-hard classical fan, love celebrating birthdays, or just appreciate a good outdoor concert, this year’s lineup has a little something for everyone.

The program includes:

“American Salute” by Morton Gould
“Hoe-Down” from Rodeo by Aaron Copland
“Liberty Fanfare” and selections from John Williams
“Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa
And even Symphony No. 9 by Antonín Dvořák
And lots more!

Also Read: 16 Epic Festivals to Celebrate July in Vermont

Come for the Music, Stay for the Fireworks: East Burke and Shelburne

Fireworks burst over the Green Mountains in Vermont.

If you’ve never been to a VSO Summer Festival Tour performance, this is the year to change that. Each concert is held outdoors, where the setting sun becomes your stage lighting, and the stars come out just in time for the encore.

Arrive early to grab a good spot, spread out your picnic, and explore the Musical Petting Zoo — an interactive tent where kids (and curious grown-ups) can try out orchestral instruments. You might just discover your inner tuba player.

And don’t rush off too soon — shows in East Burke and Shelburne will end with fireworks!

2026 Tour Dates Across Vermont

Each performance begins at 7:30 pm, with gates opening at 5:30 pm for picnicking.

July 1 – Saskadena Six Ski Area: A classic mountain setting to kick things off, with rolling hills and wide-open views.
July 2 – Burke Mountain Ski Resort: Northeast Kingdom charm meets big, sweeping orchestral sound.
July 3 – Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center: One of Vermont’s prettiest villages sets the stage for an evening of music.
July 4 – Shelburne Museum: A Fourth of July celebration that ends with fireworks.
July 5 – Trapp Family Lodge: Alpine views, cool mountain air, and a grand finale in Stowe.

Grounds open at 5:30 PM for picnicking and fun, concerts start at 7:30 PM

Why We Love the VSO

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra has been inspiring Vermonters since 1934, bringing music to concert halls, rural towns, mountaintops, and school gyms across the state. With programs like SymphonyKids and the Musical Petting Zoo, the VSO ensures that music is not only accessible but also fun for all ages.

This summer, pack a blanket, grab some friends, and experience a musical evening that celebrates love in all its forms: the romantic kind, the star-crossed kind, and the community kind, bringing us together for a summer of musical magic across Vermont.

For tickets and more info, visit VSO.org.

What to Bring

This is Vermont at its most relaxed. Leave the fancy clothes at home and pack like you’re heading to your favorite sunset spot:

Picnic blanket or folding chairs
Snacks or a full-on picnic spread
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and maybe a cozy layer for after sunset

Pro tip: bring a flashlight for the walk back to your car once the stars take over.

If you’re looking for a quintessential Vermont summer experience, this is it: culture, community, and fresh air, with just enough grandeur to make an ordinary evening feel like a special event.