Bennington Trailfest Annual Event

THIS IS AN ANNOUNCEMENT ONLY, NO NEED TO SIGN UP, JUST SHOW UP!

Bennington Trailfest is a free event for hikers and the community! Our inaugural event which celebrates Bennington as an "Appalachian Trail Community" was held in 2022 and attracted about 200 people including 40-50 Appalachian Trail and Long Trail thru hikers. The event is held each year towards the end of July.

The 2025 Bennington Trailfest will be on July 26, 2025
12:00-2:30
The event is RAIN OR SHINE!

We look forward to seeing you at Trailfest! Free food and entertainment, info tables, used gear swap, "trail of fortune" prize giveaway, and more. Hiker and local event combined! The event is held at the Bennington Community Recreation Center located at 655 Gage Street from noon to 2:30 pm.

New this year: Used Gear Exchange! Donations of usable outdoor equipment are underway for this year’s Gear Exchange. Reach out to [bennatcommunity@gmail.com](mailto:bennatcommunity@gmail.com) if you want more information. All donated equipment will be available for your selection at the trailfest. There is NO cost for acquiring any of the equipment: freely donated - freely given. Boots, hiking poles, skates, skiis, maps, compasses, backpacks, kayaks, roller blades, clothing, jackets, tennis equipment, books, tents, bug spray, first aid kits, … use your imagination and donate your usable outdoor equipment to assist others in celebrating our great outdoors."

For the community: Learn about the amazing hiking and other outdoor resources right in our backyard, learn tips and tricks from thru hikers and community members. There will be a variety of outdoor oriented organizations present. Enjoy free food and entertainment with live music. A family friendly event with activities, informational resources, and giveaways.

For thru hikers: There will be lodging, camping, shuttles, rides to resupply, hiker maps for the town, free Sunday breakfast. We can't wait to welcome thru-hikers to our hometown! More information here:
https://www.benningtonvt.org/services/parks___recreation/bennington_trailfest.php

In the event of extreme weather: the event is rain or shine. The rain location will be at the Second Congregational Church located at 115 Hillside St, Bennington, VT 05201. Notice will be given if needed on Friday July 25 at 5 pm on the Bennington A.T. Community Facebook Page.