Good morning, Burlington.

The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing is funding 15 groups through its GROW (Grants for Relocation Outreach Work) program to attract and keep new residents; the grants approved today support both relocation and retention efforts through a two-year period ending in 2027.

A group of skaters stranded on drifting ice in Charlotte were rescued Tuesday by the Coast Guard, who urged wearing life jackets because no ice is safe—officials monitor conditions at Colchester’s Mallett’s Bay ahead of the weekend’s Pond Hockey Classic.

Burton Snowboards debuts a limited-edition Olympic-season collection honoring founder Jake Carpenter, featuring gear and accessories designed with input from team riders ahead of Friday’s Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.

Some designs have been previewed at qualifiers in Colorado and Switzerland.

Dee Christie left 35 years of teaching and is now a freelance artist who creates colorful collages from old books.

Her project, called the junk journal (she was named Vermont Art Teacher of the Year in 2024), marks a new creative chapter in the local art scene.

Vermonters who depend on woodstoves are facing rising firewood prices as dry wood costs over $400 per cord due to severe cold that hinders proper seasoning, and with fewer loggers available in areas like Ira & Pittsford, residents may pay a premium this winter.

As of Feb. 3, Lake Champlain is mostly frozen, with a couple square miles of open water near Juniper Island in Burlington, according to satellite imagery.

Meteorologists predict the lake will fully freeze later this week or early next week after an Arctic blast (the first full freeze since 2019).

Sen. Watson introduced a bill that will let Vermonters use plug-in solar systems (devices that connect directly to home outlets) without needing a utility contract.

The Senate passed the bill last Wednesday, and it could soon simplify solar installation for homeowners and renters.

The Sanctuary for Healing and Liberation has opened today on the second floor of historic Chace Mill (1 Mill St.) to serve wellness and spiritual practitioners with flexible memberships.

The space will host events including dance practices, a massage workshop on Feb. 15, and a candlelight rest on March 22.

A local guide offers budget-friendly tips for hosting a Super Bowl party that stresses potlucks, bulk shopping and versatile decor (to cut costs).

Burlington residents can plan a fun, cost-effective game-day gathering with these practical strategies.

NBC5 Play of the Week runs Feb.

2 through 5, inviting Burlington viewers to watch standout plays and vote online until 8 p.m. Thursday— the winner will be announced during the 11 p.m. newscast.

Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour 2026

6:30 PM – 12:00 AM — The Flynn — Ticket pricing varies — Experience adrenaline-fueled action and breathtaking landscapes from around the world.

Penguin Plunge

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Burlington Waterfront Boat Ramp — $25 – $50 — Dive into Lake Champlain for a chilly plunge in support of Special Olympics Vermont.

Love In Motion: A Valentine's Trolley Experience

5-8 p.m. — Delta Hotels Burlington — $ — Step onto a red carpet and enjoy a charming, romantic trolley ride filled with nostalgia and curated moments for couples.

TAZ Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the electrifying talent of TAZ, a rising star who has graced major stages worldwide.

2026 Burlington Weekend Food Art and Crafts Show

10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. — Burlington City Arts @ The BCA Center — Vendor fees apply — Discover tasty eats, cool crafts, and fun vibes at this vibrant community showcase.

The Lowdown at Higher Ground

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Vermont's funniest at this new comedy event.

Reprise Concert

7:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — All ages — Experience the Phish revival with an all-star band led by Cal Kehoe.