Photo Credit: Kelly Fletcher
Vermont Business Magazine Retreat Farm’s Thursday evening Food Truck Roundup in has become a signature event that signals the start of summer for the Brattleboro community. With the generous support of Brattleboro Savings & Loan and Park Place Financial Advisors, the Square will once again be filled with food trucks, musicians, and families, couples, and new residents eager to connect with neighbors and friends.
“BS&L and Park Place’s mission is to support this area and the Food Truck Roundup is a great way to build and grow that sense of community,” shared Dan Yates.
From the roadhouse roots of Saints & Liars to the global fusion grooves of Billy Wylder, the musical lineup for the Roundup has been carefully curated in collaboration with the Stone Church. “We’ve been talking about a partnership with the Farm for several years and the Roundup was a perfect fit,” shared Robin Johnson, owner of the Stone Church. “We’re excited to bring artists to the Farm that provide sensory experiences and long-lasting memories for the community.”
The 2021 Roundup begins July 1st and continues each Thursday evening from 5pm to 8pm until September 2nd. To reduce wait times and lines, Retreat Farm will encourage vendors to use mobile ordering apps, contactless pickup, and pagers. The application window for new and returning vendors is now open and will close on April 30th. Vendors will be notified of selection by May 14th. The online application form is available at retreatfarm.org/roundupapp.
“We’re looking to add vendors who offer distinct cuisine, have strong partnerships with local farms and producers, and are committed to minimizing their environmental impact,” noted Lindsay Fahey, Retreat Farm’s Managing Director of Impact and Community.
The Roundup will highlight Retreat Farm’s pop-up bar, the Thirsty Goat, featuring local craft brews, cider and wine, along with its new Cattail Coffee Co. cart and Farmhouse Creemee stand.
Vendors have the opportunity to participate for a full-season or half-season. Each week of the Roundup is carefully curated to minimize the duplication of cuisine and provide delicious diversity throughout the summer.
But the Roundup isn’t just about great local food. The wonderful setting and combination of local food, craft brews, lawn games, and live music draw people of all ages and backgrounds.
“Our goal is to make sure everyone feels welcome to enjoy the Farm and the best food, drink, and culturally diverse music that this region has to offer,” said Fahey. “We believe that these simple pleasures enhance peoples’ lives and add to the vitality of Brattleboro, especially after a year with minimal social interaction.” Due to the number of families and children at the event, all attendees will be required to wear masks when they are not eating or drinking, regardless of their vaccination status."
Retreat Farm will also continue its Food Truck Roundup Coupon Booklet program in collaboration with SUSU commUNITY Farm, which provides under-resourced families the opportunity to purchase fresh, local food from the best food trucks in the region at a greatly reduced price. If you would like to partner with Retreat Farm to support this food access program, please contact Community Food Project Coordinator, Carissa Brewton at [email protected].
About Retreat Farm
Retreat Farm is on a mission to connect people to the land and to nourish our community. We believe that the relationship between humans and the land is the foundation of our health, sustenance, and inspiration. In 2020, Retreat Farm welcomed over 50,000 neighbors and visitors through our education, recreation, and event programs. Food Truck Roundup showcases the value of bringing all corners of the community together to enjoy an inclusive, fun event that is contributing to the economic vitality of our region.
Brattleboro, Vermont retreatfarm.org