Winter dates in Burlington
Key facts
| Church Street tree lighting | Friday, November 27, 2026, lights on at 6pm |
|---|---|
| Festive Fridays | November 27 and December 4, 11 and 18, shops open until 8pm |
| Light Up the Night | Friday, December 18, 5:30pm to 7:15pm |
| Shelburne Farms, November to April | Walking trails open, conditions permitting |
Burlington winters are long, and it is dark by late afternoon. That does not mean you have to stay in. Here are a few ideas for a cold-weather date.
The Church Street tree lighting
The Church Street tree lighting is on Friday, November 27, 2026, at the Top Block. Carols start at 5:15pm, and the tree's 100,000 lights come on at 6pm. Bring warm gloves and find a cafe afterward.
Source: Church Street Marketplace: Holidays, checked 9 November 2026
Light Up the Night
Light Up the Night is on Friday, December 18, from 5:30pm to 7:15pm. A fun run sets off at 5:30pm, then a parade of lit-up vehicles follows at 6pm. Watch from the sidewalk with a hot drink.
Source: Church Street Marketplace: Holidays, checked 9 November 2026
A crisp walk at Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms keeps its walking trails open from November to April, conditions permitting. The Farm Store is open too. There are no scheduled activities in winter, so it stays quiet.
Source: Shelburne Farms: Visiting November to April, checked 9 November 2026
Questions
What can we do when it is dark by 5pm?
Use the dark. Holiday lights, late shopping on Festive Fridays and a warm cafe all work well on a winter evening.
Is an outdoor date a bad idea in winter?
Not if you keep it short and dress well. A walk at Shelburne Farms or along the lake is lovely on a clear, cold day.
What about icy roads?
Check the forecast and road conditions before you drive. Meeting somewhere central makes it easy for both of you to get home.
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