Get your dancing shoes ready because a Guinness World Record attempt is coming to Essex Junction! This Tuesday, August 26, the Champlain Valley Fair will host a spectacular event where local musicians, led by the talented Bob Wagner and featuring Phish’s Mike Gordon, will try to break the record for the largest square dance in history. With performers like singer-songwriter Josh Panda, honky-tonk maestro Brett Hughes, and bluegrass favorites Wild Leek River, the “Honky Tonk Hoedown” promises to be a glorious gathering of music and community spirit.
The current record stands at just over 1,600 dancers, but Wagner believes they can surpass that with a great turnout. Beyond the fun, this square dance aims to support the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT), which has faced significant funding cuts that have impacted over 55 farms statewide. With collaboration from the WaterWheel Foundation and Ben & Jerry’s, the event seeks to raise crucial funds for this worthy cause.
And if you’re looking for even more musical excitement, don’t miss Kommuna Lux! The Ukrainian folk group will bring their vibrant blend of traditional music to St. Johnsbury and Waterbury Center on August 29 and 30, all while raising money for war victims through their nonprofit, KMLX.
Plus, the What Doth Rumble festival is gearing up for an incredible weekend of underground indie-rock in White River Junction on September 13 and 14, featuring a slew of local acts and workshops.
Mark your calendars for these unforgettable events that promise to uplift our community and our spirits!
