Independence Weekend 2012

July 6-8, 2012

We're looking forward to our 2012 edition of the Independence weekend programming, and hope you are to. Keep checking back for more information as summer 2012 draws closer. In the meantime, check out the 2011 program information below for a general flavor of the event.

Craftsbury Outdoor Center invites you to declare your own Independence this 4th of July with a special weekend of Independent programming:

• Explore food independence with area farm tours, presentations on composting and agriculture, plus hands-on learning opportunities in cheese-making and bread baking in our wood-fired oven. Even more directly, your learning will be fueled all weekend by meals featuring many locally sourced ingredients!
• Investigate energy independence by visiting a variety of renewable energy projects in Craftsbury, including solar, wind and biomass. Learn how several area homeowners have reduced their reliance on fossil fuels using green building techniques and energy alternatives.
• Learn how to keep yourself strong and fit through participation in a variety of activities during your stay. We'll offer biking, hiking, paddling, running, yoga, core strength and a fitness circuit - with instruction or on your own.
• We'll also offer instruction in rustic construction, composting, and discuss how we've built our wood-fired brick oven.

Our Independence Weekend '11 package includes all the presentations, fitness options, instructional opportunities, meals, lodging and additional transportation to farms for the same price as a regular stay at the Center! Rates start at only $95/pp/nt (for double occupancy).

I want to participate in the programming, but am local and don't need lodging. Can I still join in, and at what cost?
Are you a member? Members are welcome to participate in all the activities, except meals, for free. (Meals will be available for members, but will require advance reservations and purchase - check with the office for full details ). For the activities, we ask that members register their interest in participating so we can be sure to accommodate everyone. Please contact the Office to let them know which activities you'd like to join.

What if I'm not a member?
All you need to do is join! Annual Memberships are $25 for students & seniors, $50 for adults, and $100 for a family. Membership is free to Albany and Craftsbury residents - though we ask you to complete this paperwork. In addition to this weekend's worth of activities, membership gives the holder unlimited summer and winter trail use, access to member programming like the Hosmer Community Rowing Club, the Craftsbury member e-newsletter, and other great opportunities. Read more about membership here - hope you'll join us!

Do I need to bring anything special?
We'll be outside and on the move quite a bit. Bring comfortable clothes that allow easy freedom of movement. Biking will be an option for many of the off-campus tours, so bring a mountain, cross or hybrid bike if you have one (rentals will be available for those that didn't bring a bike). Other than that, nothing additional is needed beyond what you'd bring for an active summer weekend.

I don't want to miss fireworks...
No problem! We'll be taking all interested participants to watch Greensboro's fireworks display on Saturday night, July 2.

Hope you can join us for a full weekend of Independent activities this Fourth of July. Call the office at 802-586-7767 to register today.