Celebrate the Holidays in Brandon, Vermont
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There is nothing like strolling through a small village in Vermont during the holidays, especially when that small village is decked out in twinkling lights and set up as a traditional European Market.
If you’re looking for the small-town holiday celebration that everyone is talking about, make your way to Brandon, Vermont.
Throughout late November and December, Brandon transforms into a festive village filled with holiday decorations, expanded shopping hours, craft vendors, outdoor markets, live music, and plenty of seasonal cheer.
From Moonlight Madness shopping nights to the magical Winter Village in Green Park, this month-long celebration is designed to bring neighbors together, support local businesses, and welcome visitors into the heart of the community.
Here’s everything happening in Brandon this holiday season.
Moonlight Madness: A Brandon Holiday Tradition
Brandon kicks off December with one of its most beloved winter events: Moonlight Madness on Wednesday, December 3 and December 11.
This town-wide shopping night highlights the best of Brandon’s local businesses for your holiday shopping: unique gifts, one-of-a-kind finds, and the kind of personal service you won’t find on Amazon.
Many shops stay open until 8 pm on both nights, offering deep discounts, special promotions, drawings, and festive treats.
Several participating stores offer 20% off storewide, and shoppers have a chance to win $100 in Brandon Bucks.
Moonlight Madness in Brandon sets the tone for a joyful holiday season.
Introducing the Brandon Winter Village
The Downtown Brandon Alliance and Brandon Chamber of Commerce bring extra holiday charm to town with the Winter Village Holiday Market, centered in Green Park.
The Winter Village officially opens on December 3 with an outdoor market beginning at 4 pm, and will be offered on select days throughout December. Featuring warm drinks, local vendors, live entertainment, craft booths, and delicious food, the Winter Village is Vermont’s spin on a traditional European Christmas Market.
Families can also enjoy games and activities inside Brandon Town Hall on select Saturdays, including a visit from Santa.
December 3 (4–8 pm), December 5 (4–7 pm), December 6 (12–7 pm)
Each night features different food vendors, including Li’s Market on December 6. Saturdays include family activities and Santa visits in the Town Hall from 1 to 5 p.m.
December 11 (4–8 pm), December 12 (4–7 pm), December 13 (12–7 pm)
Chef Ken Lee headlines the weekend’s food offerings, along with mulled wine, hot cocoa, and giant pretzels.
December 19 (4–7 pm) & December 20 (12–7 pm)
The final weekend features handmade gifts, festive food, fire pits, and performances by local students from Neshobe School.
Meet the Winter Village Vendors
Green Park will host a diverse lineup of local artisans, food producers, woodworkers, farms, and makers offering everything from lavender goods to handcrafted charcuterie. Look for favorites like Li’s Market, Foley Brothers Brewing, Foxglove Farm & Gifts, Shy’s Art Studio, and many more.
In addition, Moonlight Madness nights bring even more local craftspeople to Town Hall, featuring handmade goods from potters, knitters, farmers, artists, and small businesses across the region.
Day-by-Day Guide to Holiday Events in Brandon
November 29: Small Business Saturday
Spend the day strolling downtown, discovering gifts, and supporting the local shops that keep Brandon thriving. It’s the perfect antidote to the frenzy of Black Friday.
November 29: American Legion “Fill the Shelves” Dance
From 7 to 10 pm, dance off your Thanksgiving dinner while supporting the Brandon Food Shelf. The evening includes an open bar, raffle baskets, and a lively dance floor. Admission is $5 plus a non-perishable food donation, or simply contribute $10 at the door.
November 30: Memory Tree Lighting
Gather in Central Park at 3:30 pm for caroling with the Brandon Festival Singers. At 4 pm, the Memory Tree is lit in honor of loved ones who have passed, a meaningful moment that brightens the darkest winter months.
November 30: Library Holiday Auction
The Brandon Library hosts its annual holiday auction from 3 to 6 pm. Enjoy light refreshments, wine, and beer, along with a silent auction featuring local treasures. A preview of items can be found on the library’s website.
December 3 and 11: Moonlight Madness Returns
Read more about the Moonlight Madness schedule above.
December 6: Amahl & the Night Visitors
The Brandon Congregational Church hosts two performances of this beloved holiday opera at 5 and 7 pm, presented by Opera Vermont in partnership with the Downtown Brandon Alliance.
December 13: Annual Christmas Decorating Contest
Light up your home or business for a chance to win in one of four categories: Residential Traditional, Residential Whimsical, Civic, or Commercial. Judging begins at 5 pm.
December 14: Brandon Festival Singers
This treasured community concert begins at 3 pm at Brandon Congregational Church. Admission is free, with a portion of donations supporting local charities.
December 20 & 21: Reverse Parade
Drive by the decorated covered bridge at 1386 Pearl Street at 6 pm and enjoy lights, displays, holiday characters, and a festive welcome from the Barn Opera community.
December 21: Shannon Wright & Friends Christmas Concert
Held at the Brandon Inn at 7:30 pm, this free musical event is the perfect finale to the holiday season.
Brandon’s festive lineup invites you to slow down and savor the season.
For event updates or details about participating businesses, please contact the Brandon Chamber of Commerce at info@brandon.org or 802-247-6401.
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