Discover Vermont in November: Traditions and Activities

November in Vermont is a month unlike any other. The leaves have mostly fallen, the busy foliage season has ended, and winter is only just beginning to make its presence known. For visitors, it may seem like an in-between month, but for locals it is a season full of preparation, traditions, and quiet rhythms. Understanding what Vermonters actually do in November gives both tourists and residents a deeper appreciation for the character of the state.

Why November in Vermont Feels Different

By the time November arrives, the bright reds and oranges of peak foliage have faded into bare trees. This period, often called stick season, gives the mountains a rugged and honest look. Towns are noticeably quieter as tourism slows before ski season begins. Roads that were packed with out-of-staters in October are calmer, and many locals use the time to focus inward, getting ready for the long winter ahead.

Preparing for Winter

One of the most practical realities of life in Vermont is preparing for winter. November is the final chance to get things in order before snow falls in earnest.

• Firewood: Many families spend weekends splitting, stacking, and covering cords of wood. It is not just about heating but also about creating a sense of readiness.
• Home winterization: Chimneys are cleaned, storm windows are installed, and any lingering drafts are sealed up. Generations of Vermonters have perfected the art of making old farmhouses and ski cabins winter-tight.
• Wardrobe swap: Flannels, insulated boots, wool socks, and heavy coats are rotated into daily use. November is when mud boots start giving way to snow boots.

Hunting Season Traditions

November is also the heart of deer season. Rifle season is one of the most important traditions in the state, often marked on family calendars well in advance. It is more than hunting; it is a cultural event.

• Family camps: Many Vermonters retreat to camps in the woods for a week of hunting, cooking hearty meals, and sharing stories around the fire.
• Venison on the table: Butcher shops and processing centers are busy this time of year. Families enjoy venison roasts, stews, and jerky that carry them through the winter.
• Respect for hunters: Bright orange jackets and hats, known as blaze orange, fill the woods. Even non-hunters respect the season, often adding orange vests when hiking to stay visible and safe.

Seasonal Food and Drink

November in Vermont brings a shift in the way locals eat and drink. The flavors become heartier and warmer, carrying families toward Thanksgiving and the winter holidays.

• Apple cider: Fresh cider is still flowing, often mulled with cinnamon sticks for warmth on chilly evenings.
• Thanksgiving meals: Vermont families incorporate local traditions into the holiday, with maple-glazed turkey, roasted root vegetables, and homemade pies often starring on the table.
• Local brews and spirits: Breweries release seasonal stouts and porters, while distilleries highlight maple spirits and warming bourbons.
• Farmstands and markets: With most stands closing for the season, November is when families stock up on potatoes, squash, and storage crops.

Community Events and Gatherings

Although quieter than summer or fall, November still brings people together in uniquely Vermont ways.

• Craft fairs: Town halls and schools host holiday craft fairs where artisans sell handmade gifts, quilts, and maple products.
• Community suppers: Church basements and firehouses often host turkey dinners, drawing neighbors together for a good meal and conversation.
• High school sports: Championship games wrap up in early November, with football and soccer uniting small towns around their teams.
• Holiday kickoffs: Some towns begin December celebrations early with parades and Christmas tree lightings, adding warmth to chilly evenings.

Outdoor Recreation in November

While many might imagine Vermont outdoor activities as limited to foliage hikes or ski slopes, November offers its own blend of recreation.

• Hiking: Trails are open, though colder and quieter. A hike to a summit in November can provide unmatched solitude.
• First snow sports: Higher elevations often get early snow, perfect for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
• Fishing: Hardy anglers still take to rivers and lakes for late fall fishing.

Quiet Time at Home

With shorter days and colder nights, Vermonters also spend more time indoors. This slower pace is cherished by many.

• Cozy evenings: Woodstoves become the centerpiece of family living rooms, with evenings spent reading, knitting, or watching movies.
• Hearty cooking: Stews, breads, and maple desserts fill kitchens with comforting aromas.
• A lull before ski season: November provides a natural pause before resorts and towns become bustling with winter visitors.

Planning Ahead for the Holidays and Ski Season

November is also a time for planning. For many Vermonters, this means preparing for the holidays or gearing up for ski season.

• Ski preparation: Locals tune skis, buy passes, and watch weather forecasts closely. Resorts often aim to open by Thanksgiving if conditions allow.
• Holiday readiness: Families plan for gatherings, order turkeys from local farms, and make travel arrangements for loved ones.

Why Visiting in November Can Be Special

For tourists, November in Vermont is not the flashy, crowded season of foliage or the polished excitement of ski season. Instead, it offers something more authentic.

• Lower crowds: Lodging prices are often lower, and towns are less busy, making it easier to connect with locals.
• Everyday life: Visitors get to see Vermont as it truly is, not dressed up for tourism but lived in by its residents.
• Small-town charm: Coffee shops, diners, and general stores provide a welcoming environment where conversations come easily.

Final Thoughts on Vermont in November

November may not sparkle with peak foliage or fresh powder, but it is one of the most honest months in Vermont. It is a time of preparing, gathering, and slowing down. For those who want to see the state as Vermonters do, November offers a window into the everyday rhythms that make life here unique. Whether splitting firewood, enjoying a church supper, or savoring mulled cider, the month captures the essence of Vermont life.