Chandler Center for the Arts - Where the arts and community meet
New World Festival - Sun, Sep 1, Noon to 11
Come and experience the 32nd Annual New World Festival, Vermont's Premier Celtic and French-Canadian event. Complete with live music, local food and drink vendors, called dances, and kids activities in Downtown Randolph. Five stages of live music, with Le Vent du Nord, Le Winston Band, Mick McAuley, Cantrip, Conor Mallon (Connla), É.T.É, Kalos, Morris Dancers, No Strings Marionette Co., and many more artists! Sunday, Sept 1st • Noon-11 pm. Tickets and info. Kids 12 & under free.
Vermont Symphony Orchestra - Sat, Sep 7, 7:30
Join Chandler Center for the Arts for an evening with violinist and concert host Bella Hristova as she leads the Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s string ensemble through a musical journey celebrating the iconic five Vermont seasons. The program features compositions by Green Mountain State natives Nico Muhly and Pete Sutherland, alongside works by Astor Piazzolla, Florence Price, Antonio Vivaldi, and more. Get tickets. Doors Open at 7. Concert begins at 7:30.
The Logger - Sat, Sep 21 at 7
Come see THE LOGGER, a one-man comedy show starring Rusty DeWees blending “blue collar comedy” with “Prairie Home Companion.” Since 1998, it’s been a hit across New England, selling out theaters big and small. Don’t miss out on the sometimes off-color laughs and fun! Get Tickets.
Opera Vermont: Puccini Centenario - Sun, Sep 22 at 3:30
Opera Vermont will celebrate this remarkable composer with a concert of Vermont artists performing arias and scenes from many of Puccini's most popular operas! Celebrating the works of the master of the operatic theatre on the centennial of his death. Giacomo Puccini died on Nov 29, 1924. Get Tickets.
Playhouse Movie Theater - The oldest movie theater in Vermont
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - Opening night, Thu, Sep 5 at 7:30
If you loved the original “Beetlejuice,” you won’t want to miss this thrilling sequel! Directed by the legendary Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara, this film promises to be a wild ride.
Show Dates: Thursday, Friday & Saturday, September 5, 6 & 7, 7:30 PM; Sunday, September 8, 2 PM (Shown with Open Captions); Wednesday & Thursday, September 10 & 11, 7:30 PM
Read more here for their September films and events at the Playhouse.
Galleries and Exhibits - New Shows
The Gallery at Chandler -Juxtaposition: Collage Show, Opening Reception Sat, Sep 14, from 5 to 7
A juxtaposition is an act or instance of placing two elements close together or side by side to compare the two. The artists in this show have various objects with opportunities to have contrasting concepts in parallel structures. The matching of objects alters or adds to the original meaning of those concepts and reveals surprising relationships. Explore for yourself - collage, uncollage, assemblage, textiles, installations, prints, and stamps. This exhibit runs through mid-November. Go check it out! More info here.
People's Gallery - Finding a Pathway, Opening Reception, Fri, Sep 6, 5:30 to 8:00
Join People’s Gallery for the opening reception of Mark Rosalbo’s latest exhibit, “Finding a Pathway.” This collection explores the many roads we take through life while searching for purpose and meaning. His work seeks to express the internal dialogue of self-reflection and personal judgment over one’s lifetime, a single day or moment.
People’s Gallery is now in its second year as an art cooperative in Randolph! Visit on Fridays from 4 to 7 PM, weekends from 11 to 3, or by appointment. To schedule a visit, call 802-505-0353. Follow them on Instagram for the latest updates.
Third Branch Pottery - G.E.M.S., Opening Reception, Fri, Sep 6 at 6
Third Branch Pottery is thrilled to announce a new exhibit at the 15 North Main gallery, featuring the creative works of students from GEMS, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing 6th-8th graders with opportunities to explore self-concept through various activities such as hiking, biking, volunteering, and more. This exhibit showcases the collaborative efforts of photographer Bailey Masi-Wood and Drift Farm’s Taryn Colonnese, who guided the students in workshops on photography and felting. The campers were encouraged to explore their creative sides, resulting in stunning photographs and felt art pieces.
Join Stephanie for the opening night on September 6th, where you can meet the artists and view their incredible work. The exhibit will be on display throughout September.
Galleries & Exhibits - Ongoing Shows
ART, etc. Chris Jones and Joann DiNicola
Andrea Melville presents the works of two exceptional artists in her gallery for August and September. Chris Jones - A self-trained visual artist based in Brookfield. Chris is deeply moved by the mystery of self-expression and connection through creative acts. Her art invites viewers to explore the enigmatic and profound aspects of human experience. Joann “Rig” DiNicola - With three decades of experience teaching art in public schools, Joann is a signature member of the Vermont Watercolor Society and an active member of several art associations.
Aaart is Aaart
AAArt is AAART Studio + Gallery, situated at 27 North Main St., is the creative hub of Rachi Farrow, a revered local artist with several decades of experience. Rachi’s artistry is an exploration of our throwaway culture, transforming waste products and everyday objects into extraordinary art pieces. Her process involves fragmenting, reconfiguring, reusing, and resurrecting these discarded items, recycling them into unique works of art. The gallery, a testament to Rachi’s commitment to sustainability and creativity, welcomes visitors whenever the lights are on, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of art.
Brainstorm Art Supply - Eco Dyeing Workshop
If you’re like the folks at Brainstorm and want to celebrate the end of summer (and the colors of Vermont), register for their upcoming Eco Dyeing Workshop with @fernstrong on 9/9 from 1-4! Participants will learn the magic of eco printing and dying with local botanicals. Refreshments will be provided, and each student will leave with a silk scarf of their own design and learn how to flower pound to create unique botanical prints that capture the beauty of central Vermont. Register here.
White River Craft Center Introduction to Shibori Dyeing
Join the WRCC for an Introduction to Shibori Dyeing! In this two-part class, you’ll learn to design, stitch, and prepare fabric for dyeing using the versatile “Ori Nui” stitch. Each participant will create a unique cotton napkin, which will be dyed in the instructor’s indigo vat. First Session: Explore various stitches, classic Japanese patterns, and tools. Begin stitching your napkin with Ori Nui. Second Session: Dye your prepared napkin in the indigo vat. Instructed by Annette Higby, @weaversdyepot. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn the art of Shibori dyeing! Register online here. To arrange payment by check or cash, contact Program Manager Susan Cornick at [email protected]
The White River Craft Center (WRCC) is a non-profit organization that provides educational opportunities in art and handcrafting. View their website programming calendar.
Live Music +
RACDC's First Friday, Fri, Sep 6 at 5:30
First Fridays is back on Merchant's Row! This festive gathering is designed to bring our community together, encouraging everyone to socialize, play, get to know their neighbors and support our amazing local businesses.
From June to October, between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM, participate in a lively community atmosphere filled with live music, local artisans, and kid activities. Plus, many of our restaurants and shops will be open late for your convenience!
September 6th will feature musical guests Jennings & McComber. Let’s celebrate our community spirit and support local businesses together!
The Underground - Listening Room - DJ Denisova Presents: Cave Rave Fri, Sep 6 at 7
DJ Denisova has been a music lover for many lifetimes, on a mission to uplift others through shared sonic exploration. With selections spanning the globe and a soft spot for all things eclectic, euphoric, and danceable, you are invited on a trip to remember long after you return home! Don’t miss this chance to catch DJ Denisova live and stay late for the First Friday afterparty. Tickets are just $10 on the day of the show. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show starts at 7:30 PM. This is a BYOB event and open to all ages. Learn more.
The Underground - Listening Room - Almost Machines w/ Technical Difficulties, Fri, Sep 13, 7:30
Almost Machines creates original music that combines acoustic and electronic sounds to create a unique form of futuristic indie-rock. Technical Difficulties define themselves as "Vintage Pop," but they also play rock, R&B, indie covers, and original songs. They have performed at various venues and festivals throughout New England and the East Coast. Tickets are $14 in advance or $17 at the door. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. You’re welcome to BYOB. Get tickets.
The Underground - Listening Room - Violet Crimes w/ Breaking Up, Psych Ward Disco and Embers in Umbra, Fri, Sep 27, 7:30
Violet Crimes: From Burlington, Violet Crimes is a female-fronted band blending punk rock and melodic hardcore. Influenced by Descendents/All, Dag Nasty, and Off, they’ve been compared to Hüsker Dü and The Gits. Their feminist anthem “Ledbetter” was featured on Liberty or Death Record’s 2023 compilation Women in Punk. Breaking Up: A melodic punk band from Manchester, NH, Breaking Up combines 90’s skate punk politics and humor with progressive metal and fusion. Psych Ward Disco: NH Hardcore Thrash Punk. Embers in Umbra: A Vermont-based pop rock band with powerful female vocals. They were nominated for three “Best of Vermont” Seven Daysies awards in May. Tickets are $14 in advance or $17 at the door. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. You’re welcome to BYOB. Get tickets.
Wit & Grit - Trivia Night, Fri, Sep 27, 6:00
Wit & Grit "Movie" Trivia Night. Get ready to put your knowledge to the ultimate test at Wit & Grit's popular Trivia Night. Doors open at 5:00, and the games begin at 6:00.
Restaurants
Within just a few blocks, Randolph offers many fun places to eat. Prepare your taste buds for a fusion of flavors, from Italian delights to insane Northern Thai cuisine and everything in between. And here's the exciting part - these restaurants aren't just places to eat; most double as visual art galleries, live music venues, or sometimes both! Talk about a dining experience that feeds your soul. So, buckle up and get ready to savor the creativity at these incredible eateries:
Saap Thai - James Beard Award Winner
One Main Tap & Grill - Farm-to-table, locally inspired cuisine, and craft beer
East Garden - Chinese
Short Notice - shareable small plates
Chef’s Market - sandwiches & specialty groceries
Randolph Village Pizza - family-friendly Italian
Wee Bird Bagel Café - best bagels ever
Wit & Grit - breakfast and lunch classics with unique style
Windy Lane Bakehouse - freshly baked sweets and savories
Prince Street Cafe - classic bowling alley breakfast and lunch
So, what are you waiting for? Go have some fun!