As we step into the first weeks of January, Kelly and I find ourselves reflecting on what makes Middlebury Middlebury—and more importantly, how we can continue to support the small, owner-run businesses that give our town its soul, especially during the quieter winter months. Over the past few weeks, we’ve heard from many of you. Restaurants, galleries, and shop owners reached out with a shared message: “Can we bring back First Fridays?” So we listened. We’re excited to say that First Fridays are returning—starting small and growing together. The first one will take place on Friday, February 6, with a handful of enthusiastic businesses throwing their hats in the ring to get us started in February, staying open later TOGETHER, to provide our community with more gathering options at least one night a month. PhotoPlace Gallery, Vermont’s Own, Middleton, Flora, Haymaker, Tinker & Smithy, The Marquis, Crooked Ladle, Sabai Sabai, Taste of India, American Flatbread, The Middlebury Inn, Jessica’s at Swifthouse, and Retro Realm amongst some…( please in box us or email us if you want to join us in celebrating the small things that matter in the depth of winter in our town…) These things take time to build momentum, but if we don’t make the first move, nothing happens. Our goal is clear: to be a town known for sipping and shopping, grabbing something delicious, and running into your neighbors and friends downtown. A place where people come out not just to buy things—but to see one another and support the local businesses that support us all. There’s also an important Middlebury Money piece we’re eager to rebuild. With so many new faces in town, we realize not everyone is familiar with our unique local currency. Over the coming months, we’ll be reintroducing this concept—because keeping dollars local means strengthening our local economy and creating the kind of vibrancy we all want to be part of.
February = Love, Local Style ❤️ To keep the momentum going, we’re launching a Love Middlebury campaign throughout the month of February—and it’s designed to be fun. Introducing the Hidden Heart Treasure Hunt 💕 Participating retailers will hide Middlebury hearts throughout their stores, just waiting to be discovered. Here’s how it works:
- Collect at least 15 hearts on the entry form available in store
- Spend at least $10 at a Middlebury business
- Turn in your completed card by the end of February
And then… the prize: 🎉 One lucky participant AND one lucky local store will each win $100 in Middlebury Money. It’s simple. It’s joyful. And it’s all about supporting one another. Support local. Support Middlebury. Look after one another. Let’s make this winter a little brighter—together.