Labor Day weekend is one of the best times to experience the Mad River Valley in all its independent, creative and slightly quirky glory.

The weekend is packed with things to see and do: the 55th annual Mad River Valley Craft Fair, the Waitsfield Farmers Market, local makers, live music, theater, art, a kids’ science show and—because this is the Mad River Valley—hundreds of rubber ducks racing down the river.

It is an eclectic mix, and that is exactly what makes a visit here so much fun.

The Mad River Valley has never tried to look or feel like every other destination. This is a place shaped by farmers, artists, shopkeepers, innkeepers, restaurateurs, musicians, makers and more than a few true Valley characters. Their creativity and independence give the Valley an unmistakable sense of place—one that simply can’t be manufactured or replicated somewhere else.

Come for the Craft Fair and see where the day takes you. Wander through the Farmers Market, stop at a farm stand, grab lunch at a locally owned restaurant or browse the shops and galleries along the way. Stay for live music, take a walk beside the river or find a quiet back road and enjoy the scenery.

Not sure where to begin? Our Mad River Valley Itinerary Builder makes it easy to create your own adventure. Poke around the interactive map, choose the places that catch your eye and build a customized itinerary with information and directions all in one place. You can text it, email it or print it—and still leave plenty of room for an unexpected stop along the way.

That is one of the joys of spending time here: the best experiences are often the ones you weren’t planning on.

While you’re exploring, don’t hesitate to ask a local where to go next. Valley businesses are quick to send visitors down the road to another favorite place—and every meal, purchase and overnight stay supports the people who give this community its character.

Our roads, trails and villages will be busy, so bring a little patience, slow down and enjoy the ride. Give cyclists and pedestrians plenty of room, respect the land and the people who live here, and leave every place as beautiful as you found it.

Most of all, come ready to experience the Mad River Valley on its own terms: creative, welcoming, proudly independent and just the right amount of unusual.

We wouldn’t have it any other way—and we hope you won’t either.

See Everything Happening This Weekend →

Build Your Own Mad River Valley Adventure →