Next week, the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival (presented by Citizens Bank this year) will take over Burlington’s Waterfront Park from July 26-29. This festival is a four-day celebration of Lake Champlain with exhibits and events all around the Queen City’s scenic park.
Festival activities include the Lake Champlain Antique and Classic Boat Show; paddleboarding; a free concert series; evening ticketed concerts (presented by Higher Ground); international food court and craft vendors; beer tent; maritime exhibits and more. Daily admission is free to most events with select events requiring admission.
MAIN STAGE CONCERTS
Thursday, July 26
Phil Lesh & The Terrapin Family Band
Like so many other musical endeavors that Phil Less (of The Grateful Dead) has been a part of, The Terrapin Family Band grew naturally and spontaneously out of something special. In this case it was the unique environment that he fostered at Terrapin Crossroads — the music venue that he recently opened in Marin County, Calif. 
The TFB uses The Grateful Dead songbook as a springboard for reinterpretation and as inspiration to create original material. Their music conveys friendship, respect, warmth and compassion for listeners and performers alike.
Show starts at 7 p.m.
$48 advance | $52 day of show
Friday and Saturday, July 27-28
Twiddle’s Tumble Down
With roots at Vermont’s Castleton State University, Twiddle began their touring career in 2005. Over a decade later, the foursome has composed an eclectic catalogue spanning three studio albums of originals, in addition to many live releases. Currently the band is digging in at the studio composing PLUMP Chapter Two, the second half of their acclaimed third album. Having performed at a multitude of international festivals, Twiddle’s trajectory shows zero sign of slowing. Be sure to catch them while they’re here in Burlington.
Three different bands will open for Twiddle both nights.
Show starts at 3:30 p.m.
$59 Two-day Early Bird Pass
$65 Two-day Regular Pass
$42 Single-day Pass (plus $5 day of show)
Sunday, July 29
WEEN
Formed by Aaron Freeman and Mickey Melchiondo, Jr. in New Hope, Penn. Ween has taken on a cult-like status with legions of devoted fans around the world. Beginning with six self-released cassettes in ’80s followed by 11 studio albums, six live albums and a smattering of EPs through the ’90s and 2000s, Ween’s recorded output is far-reaching in its styles moving from rock to punk, to psychedelic to country, to alternative and all points in between.
Gene and Dean will perform alongside longtime band members Claude Coleman, Jr. (drums), Dave Dreiwitz (bass) and Glenn McClelland (keyboards).
Gates open at 6 p.m.
$43 advance
$47 day of show
Tickets for these Main Stage shows are available at highergroundmusic.com, by calling (802) 652-0777 or at the Higher Ground Box Office in South Burlington.
BOAT SHOW
The Lake Champlain Antique and Classic Boat Society’s 33rd Annual Vintage Boat Show returns to the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival this year. More than 45 boats are on exhibit from Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maine. The Lake Champlain Chapter practices skipper judging with judges and skippers voting for their favorite boat in their respective class (Cruiser/Outboard/Utility/Runabout/Sail and more). Attendees have the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award.
FREE CONCERT SERIES
Friday, July 27
11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.
Adventure Dog
1:20-2 p.m.
Doctor Rick
Saturday, July 28
11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.
2%
1:20-2 p.m.
Brickdrop
2:15-2:45 p.m.
Romy and Ben Munkres
Sunday, July 29
12-12:30 p.m.
Rockin’ Ron the Pirate
12:45-1:15 p.m.
Claudia Varona
1:30-2:45 p.m.
Julia, Aaron, Josh
3-4:15 p.m.
Steve Hartmann
4:30-5:30 p.m.
Blow Torch
Please leave all glass, pets, alcohol, blankets and coolers at home. For more info visit lcmfestival.com.