Summer nights in Vermont were made for Music in the Meadow at Trapp Family Lodge. These concerts are a focal point of the Stowe, Vermont music scene. Pack a picnic, bring some wine, and listen to some great music while watching the sunset. It is the winning combination for a magical evening.

The Setting and Seating

Music in the Meadow takes place in one of the most beautiful spots in all of Vermont. Just beyond the lodge, you will find a gently sloping hill where extraordinary artists come to play. Doors open at 5:00 pm for picnicking and by the time the show begins, the sun will have started to drop just behind the mountains. 

Seating is first come, first served. You’ll need to bring your own chairs or blankets to place on the lawn. There are designated seating area types so choose the chairs you bring accordingly. If you only have a blanket to sit on, you will be down in front near the stage. Just behind that section, you can place a low-backed chair and then finally high backed chairs are towards the back. There is an option for preferred seating and parking should you choose to make a donation to Stowe Performing Arts.

Kids Welcome

Despite being a civilized outing don’t be intimidated to bring the whole family to Music in the Meadow. There is even discounted pricing for children ages 5-17 and kids under five are free. It is not a problem if your kids won’t sit still for the entire performance. there is plenty of room in the back at the top of the meadow for them to run around.

The night I went to see award winning Celtic music stars Natalie MacMaster and her husband Donnel Leahy, kids were actually part of the performance. Ranging in age from 4-11 all but one of the six MacMaster Leahy children make an appearance on stage during the show. They sing, dance, tap, and fiddle! When these kids start performing you can’t help but start clapping and dancing along. 

What to Pack for Music in the Meadow

I’d suggest bringing any or all of these items for a perfect evening in the meadow. Keeping in mind that parking is located across the street and depending on how far back you are, you might have a bit of a walk from your car.

• Wagon
• Chairs
• Blanket
• Binoculars
• Picnic fare
• Plates, napkins, cups, and cutlery
• Garbage bags
• Bug spray
• Sweater 
• Camera
• Flashlight

Picnic Alternative

If packing a picnic dinner seems like too much work, I’d suggest eating at the Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall first. It is the perfect spot for a pre-concert bite. It has a casual vibe and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. There is plenty of room for the kids to run around outside on the grounds adjacent to the deck.

In addition to serving their own Vermont made lagers, they have a full dinner menu. You will find many Austrian favorites like bauernwurst, knackwurst, and chicken Schnitzel. There is a kids menu with items like chicken schnitzel fingers, sliders, mac & cheese, and chicken kebabs. However, they could easily make a meal out of the huge pub pretzel appetizer!

Whatever you decide – picnicking or dining out, Music in the Meadow promises to be a night filled with incredible entertainment in an amazing place.