LUDLOW, Vt. – Once the morning fog cleared, Saturday, Sept. 30, turned into a beautiful, crisp, Vermont fall afternoon, ideal for the 39th annual Ludlow Harvest Fair, held on the front lawn of the Expeditionary School at Black River (ESBR). 40 vendors, live music from Sammy B, spicy dishes from Jamaican Jewelz food truck, and the friendly goats of Karma Sanctuary in Mount Holly, made for a spirited celebration.
The event, benefiting the Ludlow Parent Teacher Group (PTG) and ESBR, hosts many crafters and specialty food makers, selling everything from candles to quilts, baked goods to barbeque sauces.
802 Heat was there with a variety of their homemade hot sauces, while Pop’s Biscotti and Chocolates offered sweeter options. Peter Hadeka of Peter’s Folly Farm displayed a live beehive, and sold local honey. Kelly Hopkins from Singing Stones Jewelry showcased her one-of-a-kind jewelry designs, made from locally sourced, vintage materials and semiprecious stones. Richard Probst of Vermont Fire Rocks had his unique oil lamps, crafted from Vermont sourced slate, marble, and granite, laid out across several tables. The assortment of artisans seemed to provide something for everyone, or anyone looking to start their holiday shopping early.
The main event of the day had to have been “Doo-doo Bingo,” where, for a donation of $20 per square, or 6 squares for $100, visitors could place a guess as to in which square the goat would do his business. The game generated a lot of laughs, with all proceeds benefiting the Ludlow PTG.
ESBR began when a group of parents, community members, and local business leaders joined forces to form the Black River Independent School Committee, ultimately opening the school dedicated to innovation and forward thinking. The curriculum at ESBR is anchored by four educational pillars: global perspective, civic responsibility, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. The program’s goal is to foster intellectual curiosity, resourcefulness, and self-confidence in their students.
ESBR also offers volunteer opportunities to enrich students’ educational experience, and by partnering with local businesses, provide opportunities that could lead to future career potential. In 2023, the Vermont State Board of Education approved ESBR’s application for state approval, meaning the school qualifies for state educational funds. Additional funds are raised through student enrollment, grants, and fundraising events, such as the annual Harvest Festival, celebrating 40 years in 2024.