Holiday season in full swing across Montpelier and beyond
City is decorated for holidays
City is decorated for holidays
City is decorated for holidays
The halls are being decked in Montpelier just in time for the State House tree lighting.
"We had to do just the tree lighting and then relocate the hot cider and treats (to the Vermont History Museum)," said David Schutz, the state's curator.
The change happened because the State House is under construction.
"It's been a year of, frankly, doing work that is simply necessary to maintain that very grand building, and it takes a lot to keep that building looking fantastic," said Schutz.
The construction isn't stopping downtown Montpelier from looking fantastic.
"We have lots of great holiday events, and you're also supporting your neighbors by going out and supporting your locally owned business," said Dan Groberg, with Montpelier Alive.
Businesses such as Woodbury Mountain Toys are in the holiday spirit.
"December is the busiest time of year for us. We do over 35% of our sales in this month," said store owner Karen Williams.
In addition to sales, the store collects and matches donations to Toys for Tots.
"I've been putting in a bunch of stuff in the box, that's why it's overflowing. I want to give back just as much as I receive from the community," said Williams.
If people want to give back and support local businesses, the Tin Box Collective is a gift that gives back.
The tins are filled with coaster coupons to local restaurants in the Bite Box and wellness businesses in the Well Box.
Half of the proceeds from the Bite Box go to the Vermont Food Bank, and half of those from the Well Box go to the University of Vermont Cancer Center.
"I just wanted there to be as big of an impact as possible. That's my big motivator," said creator Andy Duback.
In Montpelier, the big goal is finishing construction in the State House.
"In January, we'll be ready for everyone," said Schutz.
It'll be ready just in time for the legislative session.