Good morning, Burlington.

Today, COTS hosts the Back to School Bonanza at 95 North Ave from 12 to 3, offering new school supplies, haircuts, and clothes for students in grades K-12 — volunteers can help set up from 7 a.m. until noon, and about 600 families attended last year.

On Friday at 5:45 a.m., the South Burlington Fire Department extinguished a garage fire on Foulsham Hollow Road after homeowners safely left the home as smoke was seen from the open garage door—firefighters brought the blaze under control in 15 minutes and believe faulty electrical charging equipment caused the fire.

Firefighters responded at 5:46 a.m. early Friday to a home on Hollow Road in South Burlington when smoke and flames were seen coming from a garage; they controlled the fire in 15 minutes while all occupants exited safely, and officials say electrical charging equipment may have started the blaze as investigations continue.

Burlington’s Festival of Fools returns as the Fools Block Party today on Church Street—local businesses raised funds to support a smaller celebration after funding shortages forced a pause on the full festival, and family-friendly performances include stage-free shows and live music in City Hall Park through tonight.

The Vermont Department of Health said that 45 swimming spots are under advisory because high cyanobacteria levels can cause rashes, stomach pain, and vomiting—health risks that may worsen.

Beachgoers should check water conditions before visiting, as advisories will be lifted only when levels return to a safe range.

The UVM men’s soccer team, after winning the national championship in 2024, is ranked No. 1 in the United Soccer Coaches preseason poll and will open its season on Aug.

21 vs Sacred Heart — the team was also unanimously named America East Conference favorite.

Vermont Green FC will face Ballard FC in the USL League Two championship today at 7 p.m. Fans who missed tickets can stream the match online while local partners host watch parties and NBC5 offers game analysis.

2025 Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival

8 AM – 4:30 PM — Waterfront Park — Fundraising event — Celebrate community spirit and support cancer survivors with thrilling dragon boat races.

Beth Stelling Live Comedy Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Vermont Comedy Club — Check event page for ticket info — Experience the comedic brilliance of Beth Stelling, whose latest Netflix special is a must-watch.

Vermont Antique & Classic Car Meet

7 a.m. – 6 p.m. — farr's field — $15; free for kids 12 and under — Spectators can enjoy vintage vehicles alongside flea markets, processions, and competitions.

Vermont Cheesemakers Festival

10:00 – 11:30 a.m. — Shelburne Farms Breeding Barn — Check event for details — Celebrate the art of cheesemaking in a state renowned for its world-class cheeses.

BCA Summer Concert Series: Ian Campbell

12:30-1:30 p.m. — Burlington City Arts @ The BCA Center — Free entry — Enjoy a lunchtime concert in City Hall Park with local musician Ian Campbell's melodic tunes.

Vermont Public Kids Day

10 AM – 3 PM — ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain — $16.50-20; free for members and kids 2 and under — Enjoy crafts, story time, and meet Daniel Tiger in a family-friendly environment.

Lake Champlain Chamber Music Festival

10:30 a.m. — Elley-Long Music Center — Various costs — Experience a celebration of Mozart's brilliance through concerts and masterclasses.

Vermont Tech August Happy Hour

5:30-7 p.m. — Foam Brewers - Burlington — Pay for your own food/drink — Enjoy a chill evening of networking with great vibes and conversations.

Outdoor Innovation Showcase: Vermont's Vision for Sustainability

3-5:30 p.m. — Craig's Prototype Facility — Free entry — Celebrate sustainability with discussions, networking, and optional tours of Burton's R&D center.

The Champlain Valley Fair

Aug 22-31, 3 PM - 11 PM — Champlain Valley Exposition — Admission prices vary — Celebrate the end of summer with rides, games, food, and entertainment at Vermont's seasonal highlight.