Where History Meets the Stage: Governor Jim Douglas
Join us for an afternoon with Vermont’s 80th Governor, Jim Douglas.
Vermont may be small, but its impact is massive. In his talk, "Vermont and the Nation," Governor Douglas will share the stories of the Vermonters who have made an impact on our nation throughout its history."
Why attend?
Expert Insight: Hear from a four-term governor with a deep passion for Vermont’s heritage.
Local Roots: From Middlebury Town Moderator to the State House, Douglas brings a unique "boots-on-the-ground" perspective.
Community Connection: Meet neighbors at the Arlington Common Performance Hall for this special event.
Free and open to the public thanks to the Keelan Family Foundation.
Pickleball Coffee Hour
Join us for coffee and conversation. Enjoy a relaxed, welcoming time to socialize and connect with neighbors and local pickleball players. All are welcome!
How to get the most out of our Fitness Center & Weight Room
Join our fitness expert, Lisa May, for a one hour seminar: "How to use and get the most out of our Fitness Center & Weight Room"
This seminar is designed to give participants a basic understanding of resistance training and its health benefits, along with demonstrations of many exercises for all levels of experience.
NOTE: This is not an exercise class.
Please sign up ahead of time at https://www.arlingtoncommon.org/schedule, AND, please note that there will be a limit of 10 participants - so, register soon! These sessions are Free for Fitness Members, and there is a $7 fee per class for Drop Ins. Drop Ins must register for this free membership in our system and complete the waiver.
Stretching Class
Join us for a one hour, active Stretching Class, with Lisa May.
This class will take place in our studio. Participants will be on a mat or in a chair, taking part in an active session of exercises designed to improve full body flexibility. Come dressed in proper exercise clothing and be ready to stretch. You will be so glad that you did!
Please sign up ahead of time at https://www.arlingtoncommon.org/schedule, AND, please note that there will be a limit of 10 participants - so, register soon! These sessions are Free for Fitness Members, and there is a $7 fee per class for Drop Ins. Drop Ins must register for this free membership in our system and complete the waiver.
Learn to Knit
Bring a pair of size 8 knitting needles and your favorite yarn
Ages 6 and up
Space Limited: registration is required
$15 per class or $35 for all three
Watkins House, Arlington Common, 3938 Route 7A, Arlington, Vermont
For more information and to register contact Amanda at amandahenry1211@gmail.com
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Battenkill Fly Fishing and Art Festival
Experience the magic of spring in Vermont at the Battenkill Fly Fishing & Arts Festival.
Recently named a Vermont Signature Event, this is more than just a festival; it’s a homecoming for anyone who finds peace in the rhythm of the river and the stroke of a brush. Join us for three days of celebrating fly fishing, art, music, craft, and community along one of the most storied rivers in the Northeast. From signature events and expert presentations to live music, vendors, casting competitions, and local food and drink, the festival brings together anglers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts for a spring weekend on the Battenkill.
Learn from legends like Tom Rosenbauer and world-class fly tyers.
Explore the “Mountains, Valleys and Rivers” Art Exhibit and live music by local performers.
From the high-stakes Battenkill Cup Casting Championship to craft brews at the Lawson’s Microbrew Tent, discover the social heart of Arlington.
Far Out: Life On & After the Commune
This 85-minute documentary tells the story of two rural New England communal farms. It traces fifty years in the lives of a group of writers, activists, and artists and conveys not only how these “hippies” transformed Vermont and western Massachusetts, but also how rural life and the people they met
changed them. The program will include a discussion and Q&A with filmmaker Charles Light and poet and commune resident, Verandah Porche. The film’s story begins in the summer of 1968, in the middle of a left-wing faction fight, when a group of radical journalists from Liberation News Service (LNS) left New York City for the country. They founded two communes–at Packer Corners in Guilford, VT and in Montague, MA.
Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door or online through the link below.
Constituent Coffee Hour with our Vermont State Representatives
Join Rep. Kath James and Rob Hunter on Saturday mornings!
We believe it’s important to meet voters face-to-face. It’s the best way to ask questions, learn more about the issues, and understand how we’re voting and why.
The legislature meets in person at the State House in Montpelier every Tuesday through Friday during the five-month session, January through May. During the session, I hold regular coffee hours — typically twice a month — from 9 to 10:30 am on Saturday mornings throughout the district. I also hold occasional coffee hours during the summer and fall. These informal get-togethers are open to all residents of the Bennington-4 district, which includes Arlington, Manchester, Sandgate and northwest Sunderland.
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Learn to Knit
Bring a pair of size 8 knitting needles and your favorite yarn
Ages 6 and up
Space Limited: registration is required
$15 per class or $35 for all three
Watkins House, Arlington Common, 3938 Route 7A, Arlington, Vermont
For more information and to register contact Amanda at amandahenry1211@gmail.com
Learn to Knit
Bring a pair of size 8 knitting needles and your favorite yarn
Ages 6 and up
Space Limited: registration is required
$15 per class or $35 for all three
Watkins House, Arlington Common, 3938 Route 7A, Arlington, Vermont
For more information and to register contact Amanda at amandahenry1211@gmail.com
Pichona Pop-Up Bakery
Hola Pichona will join our Saturday morning coffee hour with her delicious baked goods for sale. Please join us!
Italian Classes
This course will consist of five Wednesday classes.
April 1 – April 29
from 11:00 to 12:00
La professoressa, a native Italian, has taught at Parliamo Italiano in NYC and has taught privately for many years. Her Program 'Ciao Letizia' Italian for the beginner, has been enjoyed by many.
Register for this affordable and fun Italian course, tailored to the American tourist.
Questions and Sign up
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Volunteer Fair
Learn about area non-profits and their missions . Whether you’re retired and ready to give back, a student eager to gain experience, or a busy parent looking to connect with local organizations, this is a great opportunity to find the right fit for you!
For students attending, you can earn one hour of community service credit by filling out your passport while learning about service opportunities!
Join us at the Martha Canfield Memorial Free Library in Arlington, VT to discover diverse volunteer opportunities for a variety of ages.
To register your Arlington-area nonprofit, contact programming@arlingtoncommon.org.
Women's Sampler Presentation
Presenter Michele Pagan will speak to the Arlington community on the topic of Vermont samplers: what they are, why they were made, and the socio-economic clues that can be read in them. A sampler made in Arlington will be included in her remarks.
Michele is currently associated with the Vt Sampler Initiative and coordinated the Samplers Driving Tour, Summer 2025, in conjunction with the VT State 250th Commemoration of the start of the American Revolution.
This is a free event and is sponsored by the Keelan Family Foundation. It will take place in the Watkins House at the Arlington Common.
SWVT Act 59 Listening Session
The Bennington County Conservation District invites community members to participate in a stakeholder-led listening session focused on the Draft Expanded Framework of the Vermont Conservation Plan, developed under Act 59: The Community Resilience and Biodiversity Protection Act.
This event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged. For more information and to register, go to the link below.
Constituent Coffee Hour with our Vermont State Representatives
Join Rep. Kath James and Rob Hunter on Saturday mornings!
We believe it’s important to meet voters face-to-face. It’s the best way to ask questions, learn more about the issues, and understand how we’re voting and why.
The legislature meets in person at the State House in Montpelier every Tuesday through Friday during the five-month session, January through May. During the session, I hold regular coffee hours — typically twice a month — from 9 to 10:30 am on Saturday mornings throughout the district. I also hold occasional coffee hours during the summer and fall. These informal get-togethers are open to all residents of the Bennington-4 district, which includes Arlington, Manchester, Sandgate and northwest Sunderland.
Women and the Civil War
Vermont’s remarkable Civil War battlefield record is well documented: breaking the flank of Pickett’s Charge, the great stand at Wilderness, the climactic assault at Petersburg.
But little is known of how Vermont women sustained the home front. With nearly 35,000 of the state’s able-bodied men at war, the monumental task of keeping more than 30,000 farms in operation became a female enterprise.
Women also took the place of men in factories and worked after hours making items needed by the soldiers. A Vermont woman edited anti-slavery newspapers and others spoke against slavery. Also, Vermont women served as nurses in the state’s military hospitals and in the war zone, taught newly-freed slaves in the South, and at least one Vermont woman appears to have secretly enlisted and fought in a Vermont regiment.
This story is told in their own words, from letters and diaries that describe life during the Civil War in the Green Mountain State, and is presented by Howard Coffin, a seventh-generation Vermonter. Howard Coffin is the author of four books on the Civil War with a focus on Vermont and the Champlain Corridor.
Caring For and Repairing an Antique Quilt
Free presentation during our Saturday morning coffee hour by textile historian Michele Pagan.
Pichona Pop-Up Bakery
Join us at our Saturday morning coffee hour! We’ll have free coffee and treats, plus amazing baked goods from Pichona Pop-Up Bakery available to purchase.
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
“Still Excited to Ski” movie
"Still Excited to Ski" follows Noah Dines on his extraordinary quest to ski 3.5 million vertical feet in a single year—a feat that set a new world record in 2024. Directed and produced by Charlie Hildick-Smith, this film captures Noah’s relentless determination as he climbs uphill against fatigue, harsh weather and moments of doubt across North America, Europe, and South America. Along the way he’s buoyed by the support of friends, family, and a global skiing community who cheer him on and share in his triumphs and setbacks. Through breathtaking landscapes and candid moments, the movie reveals not just the physical demands of the journey, but the joy, camaraderie, and personal growth that come from chasing an audacious goal. Ultimately, Noah’s story is a celebration of perseverance, adventure, and the overwhelming power of community.
The evening will be a celebration of the winter experience and the power of community. The festivities begin at 5:00 PM with an Après-Ski pop-up, where attendees can enjoy beverages and ski-inspired snacks before the screening begins at 6:00 PM.
This film is 30 minutes long and will be followed by a Q&A with both the producer Charlie Hildick Smith and the skier Noah Dines.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or online.
Thank you to our sponsors: Gear Haus, Zero Gravity, and Bradley's Ski Shop!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
Check out this video of one or our Open Mic nights!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qX-QF1btAQUIR8AMDwfyRb0Ll_BOiuN4/view
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Winter Tea
Arlington, Sandgate and Sunderland Seniors are warmly invited to our Winter Tea
Hosted by the Arlington Lions Club
Enjoy tea, small bites and friendly conversation with neighbors. Hats and pearls are encouraged!
Snow date is January 27, 2026
Please RSVP by January 19th to Lion Susan at 914-954-1983
We hope you’ll join us!
Constituent Coffee Hour with our Vermont State Representatives
Join Rep. Kath James and Rob Hunter on Saturday mornings!
We believe it’s important to meet voters face-to-face. It’s the best way to ask questions, learn more about the issues, and understand how we’re voting and why.
The legislature meets in person at the State House in Montpelier every Tuesday through Friday during the five-month session, January through May. During the session, I hold regular coffee hours — typically twice a month — from 9 to 10:30 am on Saturday mornings throughout the district. I also hold occasional coffee hours during the summer and fall. These informal get-togethers are open to all residents of the Bennington-4 district, which includes Arlington, Manchester, Sandgate and northwest Sunderland.
Winter Community Meditation Hour
Starting January 7th, a meditation hour will be offered every Wednesday evening from 5:30 to 6:30 PM in the Watkins House at the Arlington Common. Each meeting will start with instruction followed by meditation, discussion, and questions. The intention of this group is to form a container for peace and compassion in these challenging times. The facilitator will be James Reilly, a local meditator and therapist. There will be no charge or expected donation for participation. Chairs will be provided or you may wish to bring your own meditation cushion.
Meet a Sewing Machine Workshop (two classes)
We are excited to announce a special two-part "Meet a Sewing Machine" class! This is the perfect opportunity if you are looking to learn more about your current machine or are considering purchasing one.
Sunday, January 18th from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM and
Sunday, January 25th from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM.
Taught by professional seamstresss Lynn DeMaria
You are welcome to bring your own sewing machine or use one of the machines available here.
Part 1: Machine Basics and Care
The first session will focus on essential machine operation and proper care. We will also discuss how to select the best type of machine for various sewing projects.
Part 2: Easy Sewing Project
The second session will be hands-on, guiding you through the creation of a simple sewing project.
The cost is $40 for the two class workshop.
Repair Cafe
We're excited to announce our second Sewing Repair Cafe, taking place on Saturday, January 17th, during our regular Comunity Cafe.
We'll be joined by Lynn DeMaria, a talented seamstress who will be offering free, on-site repairs for fabric items. She will have her sewing machine and supplies ready to help with mending tears, replacing buttons, installing new zippers, and more.
Please bring any replacement items, such as matching material or zippers, along with the item you wish to have repaired. We kindly request a maximum of two repairs per person. If you need alterations, these can be arranged with Lynn for a small fee.
Please note that shoes, luggage, or purses will NOT be repaired at this event.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Italian for the American Tourist
This course will consist of six Wednesday classes.
January 14 – February 18 from 11:00 to 12:30
The professoressa, Letitia Scordino, is a native Italian who has taught at Parliamo Italiano in NYC and has taught privately for many years. Her program 'Ciao Letizia' Italian for the beginner, has been enjoyed by many.
Register for this affordable and fun Italian course tailored to the American tourist
For questions email programming@arlingtoncommon.org
Gone Guys
Join us for this free documentary as Gone Guys explores a “quiet crisis” in our communities, hidden in plain sight: the increasing disengagement and isolation of boys and young men. Set in rural Vermont, this documentary brings national data to life highlighting the struggles faced by boys and young men and sets the stage for a meaningful conversation.
This award-winning 45-minute documentary film draws on the work of Richard V. Reeves (“Of Boys and Men”), illuminating these trends through powerful data and personal storytelling. The film invites audiences to think about how they are experiencing these issues in their own lives and communities, and how we can all be a part of the solution. After the film, a panel discussion will be held.
About the Panel
The post-screening panel will ground the national issue in the local context, featuring a diverse group of community members dedicated to youth well-being:
The panel participants will include Sergeant Todd Wilkins, Arlington School Board Chair, Vermont State Police and youth soccer coach; Nick Albert of Albert Construction, business owner; Thom Powers, Arlington School District School Psychologist; and students and teachers from local schools.
The discussion will be moderated by Nicol Whalen, an Arlington School Board member.
This film is free to the public, no tickets necessasary!
Winter Community Meditation Hour
Starting January 7th, a meditation hour will be offered every Wednesday evening from 5:30 to 6:30 PM in the Watkins House at the Arlington Common. Each meeting will start with instruction followed by meditation, discussion, and questions. The intention of this group is to form a container for peace and compassion in these challenging times. The facilitator will be James Reilly, a local meditator and therapist. There will be no charge or expected donation for participation. Chairs will be provided or you may wish to bring your own meditation cushion.
Moon Bakery
We’re excited to welcome Fern from North Bennington’s moon bakery to our Saturday morning Community Café. She’ll be bringing samples and selling her made-from-scratch scones, pastries, cookies, cakes, breads, and chocolates, all sweetened with maple sugar from Butternut Mountain Farm in Morrisville.
Christmas Cabaret
A musical comedy revue presented by the Arlington Common Community Theater
Showcasing your friends and neighbors singing and dancing to some of your favorite Christmas carols mixed with comedy skits and Broadway tunes!!
Leif Erickson-Director, Julie Freebern-Musical Director, Michael Garvey-Accompanist, Tim Rice-Master of Ceremonies
Tickets: $15.00 for adults - kids under 13 - $10 (Tickets are available online or at the door.)
Christmas Cookie Swap
Taking place during our weekly coffee hour. Bring two cookie tins, one to share and one to fill!
Printmaking Workshop
Join us for this fun printmaking workshop!
You will learn the printmaking basics by carving your own linoleum block to print onto cards and gift tags.
$10 for materials
For adults and children 8+ (each child must be accompanied by an adult)
Registration is limited to 24 participants
Christmas Tree Decoration Party
Help us make ornaments for our Lion’s Club Christmas tree while also enjoying coffee, treats and socializing with your neighbors!
Open Mic Night
Come join us for a free night of music and fun in the Performance Hall at The Arlington Common! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to showcase your talents, this is the perfect opportunity to take the stage and shine. Grab your friends and family for a fun evening of entertainment and support local artists. Don't miss this chance to be part of a lively and creative community.
If you’d like to perform you can sign up at the door or email vtcabin@comcast.net
See you there!
Lamp Repair Cafe
Do you have a broken lamp that needs repair?
Join us for our second Repair Cafe on Saturday, November 22nd, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at The Arlington Common.
We are pleased to announce that Cindy and Bob Carpenter, owners of Carpenter Electric, will be joining us to assist with repairs.
Enjoy a pastry, hot cup of coffee and visit with friends while your lamp is being repaired. There will be a charge only for materials used.
Wendy June Marié (Fern), owner & baker of the famous Moonscones Bakery, will also be here today selling her fabulous baked goods!