Getting There
As far as traveling is concerned, you’re looking at a relatively stress-free trip. Vermont’s tiny size and Sugarbush’s central location makes for a convenient haul. Air travelers will want to hop on a flight to Burlington International Airport. From there, it’s just a short, one-hour drive on I-89 S and VT-100 S via taxi, bus or rental car. If you’re already within driving distance and don’t need to fly, Sugarbush is in close proximity to several major East Coast cities. It’s a three-hour drive from Boston on I-93 N and I-89 N, and a five-hour drive from NYC on I-89 N. You can even start making frends early by going to the festival’s Facebook page to find a ride.
Camping
On mountain camping within the festival grounds is free with the purchase of a 2 day, 2 day plus Thursday early arrival and Saturday passes. RV, car and family car camping passes can be purchased for an additional fee to give you access to the parking lot directly outside of the festival grounds. It’s a great addition this year.
If you aren’t the outdoorsy type, check out all the lodging options in the Mad River Valley. There’s countless bed & breakfasts, inns, hotels and anything else you’re looking for. Most importantly, you won’t be too far away from all your frends camping under the stars.
Parking
Free parking and shuttles will be available at Sugarbush, Lincoln Peak where all festival passes will be picked up. Onsite parking at Sugarbush,Mt.Ellen is also available and a great option for those of you that want more of a VIP experience. After picking up your passes at Lincoln Peak you can drive right over to Mt. Ellen and avoid the shuttles.
Leave No Trace
Nature is your frend, too. Pack light, bring reusable water bottles, led lights versus glow sticks and remember no glass! Please bring cans only.. Separate recyclables from trash, and be respectful of any wildlife and natural objects you may encounter. And, of course, don’t forget to clean up your campsite when it’s time to go home.
Little Frends
As a family-frendly festival, children are more than welcome to join in on the fun at Sugarbush. In fact, children 12 and under get in for free.
Family First
While Jack and Danny are busy dudes, festies from previous gatherings have noted that the two regularly check up on their guests to make sure everyone is having a blast. This is Vermont’s tradition of hospitality at its finest, and you won’t find many other festivals out there quite like it.
10 Anchors of Frendship
These core values are essential to the Frendly Gathering experience:
- Passion
- Mutual Accountability
- Humility
- Inclusivity
- Respect
- Revelry
- Collaboration
- Selflessness
- Integrity
- Honesty