Episode 168 Highlights:

1. Introduction to Woodstock, Vermont

• Discover this charming town in central Vermont, near Lebanon, NH, and Rutland, VT.
• A brief history of Woodstock’s New England character and why it’s a great holiday destination.

1. Wassail Weekend Preview

• A glimpse at the 40th Annual Wassail Weekend, held December 13–15:
• Wassail Scavenger Hunt: Start your holiday adventure at the “Town Smiler” with a town-wide scavenger hunt.
• Christmas at Billings Farm & Museum: Enjoy Victorian holiday traditions, including candle-dipping and sleigh rides.
• Rare & Vintage Book Sale and Story Hour at Norman Williams Public Library.
• Woodstock Town Hall Theatre: Live performances and holiday music in a historic setting.

1. Saturday’s Main Events

• Artisan and Food Market on the Village Green: Local crafts and treats.
• Wassail Parade: Horses decked out in festive regalia for an iconic holiday parade.
• Luminary Lighting and Caroling: Caroling, tree lighting, and a cozy bonfire to end the day.

1. Family-Friendly Sunday Activities

• Billings Farm Victorian Traditions: Another chance for old-time holiday charm.
• Skate with Santa at Union Arena: A holiday skating experience with Santa.
• Snow Maiden Puppet Show at Town Hall Theatre.
• Messiah Sing at Our Lady of the Snows: A community sing-along of Handel’s Messiah.

1. Tips for a Great Visit

• Dress Warmly: Layers are key for Vermont’s cold winters.
• Plan Ahead: Reserve tickets and dinner reservations early.
• Shuttle Service: Park at Woodstock Union High School and take the free shuttle.

1. Dining and Lodging Suggestions

• Dining: Enjoy a cozy meal at local spots like Worthy Kitchen and Mon Vert Café.
• Accommodations: Stay at The Woodstock Inn & Resort for a memorable holiday getaway.

1. Year-Round Attractions and Festivals

• Woodstock is great all year! Explore other events, outdoor activities, and arts festivals that make this town a family-friendly destination.

Social Media & Hashtags:

Share your Wassail Weekend photos with #WoodstockVT and tag @TheFamilyVacationer to be featured!

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Wassail Weekend Information
• Billings Farm & Museum
• The Woodstock Inn & Resort
• Norman Williams Public Library
• Pentangle Arts at Woodstock Town Hall Theatre

Episode Title: The Lasting Power of Family Vacation Memories

Episode Description:

In this heartfelt episode of *The Family Vacationer*, Rob opens up about a recent personal loss and how, through creating a memorial slideshow for his dad, he discovered the profound impact family vacations had on their lives. With photos and memories bringing laughter, adventure, and cherished moments flooding back, Rob shares how these trips have become priceless pieces of his family’s legacy. Join us as we explore why family vacations are more than just getaways and how they shape and strengthen family bonds that stand the test of time.

Episode Highlights:

- Why Family Vacations Matter – More than just a break, family vacations create moments that last a lifetime and help shape family identities.

- Capturing the Real Moments – The importance of candid photos that capture the spirit of a trip rather than just picture-perfect poses.

- Building Strong Family Connections*– How shared experiences during family trips build resilience, empathy, and connection.

- The Priceless Value of Memories – Reflections on how these memories gain value over time and become treasures that connect us with loved ones who have passed.

- Tips for Memory-Making on Your Next Family Trip – Practical advice on how to be present, create meaningful moments, and document the special moments that bring a trip to life.

Tune in for a reflective conversation on the true value of family vacations and how making time for these experiences can bring families closer together, one memory at a time.

Connect with Us:

- Follow us on Instagram: [@TheFamilyVacationer](https://instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

- Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen!

- Share your favorite family vacation memories with us by tagging #TheFamilyVacationer

The Family Vacationer Podcast - Episode 166: The Best Places to See the Leaves Changing in the Fall

Episode Overview:

In this episode of *The Family Vacationer*, Rob takes you on a colorful journey through some of the best places in the U.S. to experience the magic of fall foliage. Whether you're planning a quick weekend road trip or a longer family vacation, you'll get expert tips on the top destinations to soak in the season's vibrant colors.

Topics Covered:

1. New England Fall Foliage

- Explore Vermont’s Green Mountain Byway, with family-friendly activities like apple picking and cider mills.

- Discover New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway and scenic spots in the White Mountains.

- Experience Acadia National Park in Maine, where coastal views meet stunning autumn landscapes.

2. Southern and Midwestern Fall Adventures

- Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, with Asheville as your base for exploration.

- Enjoy the colors of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including the picturesque Cades Cove.

- Explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, from the Porcupine Mountains to the waterfalls of Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

- Visit Door County, Wisconsin, where local traditions like fish boils and scenic drives offer a unique fall experience.

3. Western and Mountain Foliage Destinations

- Discover the beauty of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas and Missouri, with winding scenic drives through dense forests.

- Take in the golden hues of Aspen, Colorado, and the breathtaking views of Maroon Bells.

- Head to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia for the perfect mix of scenic drives and outdoor activities along Skyline Drive.

Why You Should Listen:

If you love the idea of a family getaway surrounded by the beauty of autumn, this episode is packed with inspiration. Rob shares practical travel tips, must-see spots, and ideas for making the most of your fall foliage trips—whether you're into hiking, scenic drives, or simply enjoying the crisp air and vibrant landscapes.

Links and Resources Mentioned

- Acadia National Park

- Green Mountain Byway (Vermont)

- The Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

- The Blue Ridge Parkway

- Great Smoky Mountains National Park

- Porcupine Mountains (Michigan)

- Maroon Bells (Aspen, Colorado)

- Shenandoah National Park

Follow Us:

Be sure to subscribe to *The Family Vacationer* on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode! For more family travel inspiration, follow us on social media and visit our website for additional resources.

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