The Maple Roots Festival took place at Morse Farm in East Montpelier on Saturday, July 26, from noon to midnight. Now in its fifth year, the festival has developed several beloved traditions, one being a parade led by Linda Bassick, a prominent Vermont musician and educator who has participated every year. At 5 p.m., she handed out colorful pool noodles to attendees, encouraging them to join in a march through the festival grounds while leading a sing-along of the children’s classic, “The More We Get Together.”
The parade culminated with Bassick climbing onto the Jammbulance, a transformed ambulance serving as a mobile performance stage created by musician Steven Yardley. During her set, Bassick entertained audiences with songs from her Busy Morning Band, featuring popular hits such as “Squirrel in a Tree” and “Thank You, Feet.”
The festival also featured delicious treats, including the highly praised maple-chocolate twist creemee, which the author enjoyed multiple times throughout the day. Overall, the Maple Roots Festival not only celebrates Vermont’s maple heritage but also fosters a sense of community and fun, marking it as a cherished summer tradition for families and visitors alike.
