The Orwell Food & Farm Fest events for 2025 were a resounding success, connecting the community with the growers and makers in our region. Held on the Orwell Town Green, the two primary market days—July 6 and September 7—showcased the strength and resilience of our local food system.
The Orwell Food Fest is a project spearheaded by the Orwell Free Library and supported by dedicated volunteers. Its founding mission is ambitious: to boost food system resiliency, raise awareness of our Orwell food growers, celebrate area producers and makers, and ultimately support the local economy. Based on the tremendous support across both dates, the 2025 Fest achieved these crucial goals.
Highlights from the Market Days
The Fest provided a lively marketplace featuring diverse goods from local farmers and artisans including:
- Produce and Staples: Singing Cedars Farmstead, Fig Leaf Farm Produce, and Garden Chicks Farm & Yard.
- Specialty items included Champlain Valley Mushrooms, Misty Maples syrup, and Peter’s Wildflower Honey.
- Meats and Dairy: Local protein and dairy were well-represented, including Orwell cheese from Danz Ahn Dairy, turkey from Stonewood Farm Turkey, beef from Lucas Family Farm and beef jerky from Chimera Meats.
- Artisans and Services: The events featured art from Orwell Artists, fiber art by Cindy Watrous, and baskets by Maggie Ryan. Attendees could also find useful services like knife sharpening provided by Barb & Joe Callahan. Quiet Valley Fiber Designs offered both fiber items and eggs.
- Sweets and Blooms: Poppy Hill Bakery provided delicious sweets and breads, while Taking Root brightened the market with fresh flowers.
- Prepared food: Buxton Family put together a delicious and affordable menu for both events. Andrea’s Dance Team offered an array of tasty and crowd pleasing food as a team fundraiser.
Music and Community Connection
The September event ensured a fun atmosphere with live entertainment provided by the Fried Dough Boys, with local fiddler Freeman Corey, Colin McCaffrey, and Dono Schabner. July brought local bluegrass pickers, Bird Mountain String Band, back to the green.
Beyond commerce, the Fest strengthened community connections. The Orwell Free Library provided children’s activities, and local organizations like Elderly Services, Inc of Addison County, Orwell Parks & Rec and Orwell General Store engaged with residents.
We are thrilled with the turnout and participation across both dates in 2025. Your attendance helps ensure the continued success of our local producers and the resilience of our community.
Want to relive the Fest or see some highlights?
Visit the Orwell Free Library YouTube channel!
Thank you again to all vendors, volunteers, and attendees for making the 2025 Orwell Food & Farm Fest a success.
See you in 2026!