Dad Guild Events!
Dad Guild offers a wide range of programming, all designed to meet dads where they are at
Our events fall into the following categories:
Dads Only: Social and peer-support events intended for dads to connect
Caregiver Education: Opportunities for dads to deepen their knowledge on parenting topics. Intended as “dads only” unless otherwise stated.
Dads & Kids: Fun events for dads to meet and bring their kids to play
Whole Family: Big events where all caregivers and members of the family are welcome to join
Public Community Events: informative discussion events where all parents and adult caregivers are welcome to attend.
Other details to note about our programming. You’ll see events listed with the following keywords:
Drop in - no registration required. Just come on by!
RSVP - we ask for folks to pre-register so we have a sense of attendance
In-person - event takes place in-person at the listed time and location
Virtual - event takes place online, via Zoom or Google Meet
Hybrid - event is both in-person and virtual. Attend whichever way works best. RSVPs will be emailed the meeting link in advance.
Dad Guild is expanding our in-person programming across the state!
While we are not statewide (yet), we do have regular programming happening outside of Chittenden County.
Click here to see if something is happening near you.
ADDISON: Nest and Gather Playgroup
Dads and kids are invited to join the Dad Guild playgroup at Nest and Gather! To learn more about Nest and Gather, click here.
ADDISON: Ferrisburgh Town Beach Day
Dads and kids are invited to join us at Ferrisburgh Town Beach to hang out and play!
WASHINGTON: Montpelier Library Playgroup
Join us at Kellogg-Hubbard Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Nick Kramer.
FRANKLIN: Bright Side Playplace Playgroup
Join us at The Bright Side Playplace for a dads and kids playgroup!
To reserve your spot, head to this site and add the appropriate number of child tickets to your cart. Upon checkout, enter the code DADGUILD to reserve your tickets for free. This event is free for Dad Guild attendees. If you have questions, message dan@dadguild.org.
Playground Playgroup (Williston)
There are tons of amazing playgrounds in the area, but let’s be honest, it’s always more fun when our kid has others to play with, and there are other caregivers to chat with. Or at least attempt to chat with as we chase our little ones around. See you out there!
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
Dads & Kids: Yo-Yo workshop
Want to learn to yo-yo like a pro? Then come learn from a former professional yo-yo’er! No joke, the personal leading this event was on the pro yo-yo circuit for a bit.
RSVP required: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
FRANKLIN: St. Albans Free Library Playgroup
Join us at St. Albans Free Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Dave.
Generator Makerspace Tour
The generous folks at Generator Makerspace have offered the Dad Guild community a special tour of their awesome facilities! Come learn about the cool tools they have on site, as well as the STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) afterschool programs they will be offering in the fall.
RSVP requested: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
ADDISON: Nest and Gather Playgroup
Dads and kids are invited to join the Dad Guild playgroup at Nest and Gather! To learn more about Nest and Gather, click here.
UPPER VALLEY: Storrs Pond BBQ
Families are invited to join us for a BBQ at the Storrs Pond Recreation Area! We will be grilling and hanging out at the Dimick Pavilion. We will have food, but feel free to bring other food and snacks for the fam. This event is free for everyone in the family.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
ADDISON: Ferrisburgh Town Beach Day
Dads and kids are invited to join us at Ferrisburgh Town Beach to hang out and play!
WASHINGTON: Montpelier Library Playgroup
Join us at Kellogg-Hubbard Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Nick Kramer.
UPPER VALLEY: Beach Day at Silver Lake State Park
Join us at Silver Lake State Park for food, fun, and a rockin' good time! We will have food, but feel free to bring your own picnic or snacks. On the way in, just mention you are with Dad Guild. We will cover the park fee for the day.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
FRANKLIN: Bright Side Playplace Playgroup
Join us at The Bright Side Playplace for a dads and kids playgroup!
To reserve your spot, head to this site and add the appropriate number of child tickets to your cart. Upon checkout, enter the code DADGUILD to reserve your tickets for free. This event is free for Dad Guild attendees. If you have questions, message dan@dadguild.org.
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
FRANKLIN: St. Albans Free Library Playgroup
Join us at St. Albans Free Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Dave.
Playground Playgroup (Burlington)
There are tons of amazing playgrounds in the area, but let’s be honest, it’s always more fun when our kid has others to play with, and there are other caregivers to chat with. Or at least attempt to chat with as we chase our little ones around. See you out there!
Dads & KIDS Rock! (climbing)
Been taking advantage of the Dads Rock! sessions? Want to bring the kids along this time? Then join us for a special Dads & KIDS Rock! session at Petra Cliffs indoor climbing center.
RSVP Required: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
ADDISON: Nest and Gather Playgroup
Dads and kids are invited to join the Dad Guild playgroup at Nest and Gather! To learn more about Nest and Gather, click here.
ADDISON: Ferrisburgh Town Beach Day
Dads and kids are invited to join us at Ferrisburgh Town Beach to hang out and play!
WASHINGTON: Montpelier Library Playgroup
Join us at Kellogg-Hubbard Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Nick Kramer.
FRANKLIN: Bright Side Playplace Playgroup
Join us at The Bright Side Playplace for a dads and kids playgroup!
To reserve your spot, head to this site and add the appropriate number of child tickets to your cart. Upon checkout, enter the code DADGUILD to reserve your tickets for free. This event is free for Dad Guild attendees. If you have questions, message dan@dadguild.org.
Fantasy miniature painting
You're never too old to play (and paint!) with your toys! For dads and kids who love tabletop gaming, whether it's Warhammer or Dungeons & Dragons, join us for the inaugural Dad Guild mini-painting session.
Paints, brushes, and basic miniatures will be provided. However, if you have any unpainted miniatures at home that you just can't seem to find the time to beautify, bring them along and we'll help you get them ready for adventure.
Whatever you paint, you take home with you, or keep at the Guild Hall for the next time you join a future “Dads & Dungeons & Dragons” event.
This event is being offered as part of Art Hop.
Intended for Dads & Kids aged 9+
RSVP requested: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
(French speaking) Dads & Kids playdate
Hello French-speaking dads! Dad Guild is excited to partner with the Vermont French Learning Hub to offer a chance for dads and kids from French-speaking households to meet, connect, and play. Whether a native speaker or someone who learned it later in life, come on by. Just know the event will be entirely in French.
Appel à tous les pères francophones! Dad Guild est heureux d'organiser un événement avec le Vermont French Learning Hub afin de proposer l'opportunité pour les pères et enfants de familles francophones de se retrouver, partager un bon moment ensemble, ainsi que de jouer en groupe. Que votre français soit natif ou que vous l'ayez appris en tant qu'adulte, rejoignez-nous donc! A savoir que l'événement sera entièrement en français!
Dads & Kids Dinner @ St. Mike's
Did you know that St. Michael’s University Green Mountain Dining Room is open to the public? We are willing to bet, maybe not.
Join us for a group Dads & Kids outing to grab a mid-week meal together, cafeteria style. We had so much fun we are glad to make this a regular event! Dinner is on us, we just ask that you RSVP in advance so we can provide an accurate count.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
FRANKLIN: St. Albans Free Library Playgroup
Join us at St. Albans Free Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Dave.
ADDISON: Nest and Gather Playgroup
Dads and kids are invited to join the Dad Guild playgroup at Nest and Gather! To learn more about Nest and Gather, click here.
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
CANCELLED: WINDHAM: Retreat Farm Hike
CANCELLED: This event has been cancelled. Hope to see you at another event!
—
Dads and kids are invited to join Dad Guild for a Saturday morning hike in Brattleboro! We will do the family-friendly 0.65 mile Nature Trail Loop. You can check out Retreat Farm’s trail map here.
We will hike rain or shine!
Have questions or want to get in touch about expanding Dad Guild in Windham County? Message Dan Castrigano at dan@dadguild.org.
Dads & Kids @ Pinball Co-Op
Dads and kids of all ages are invited to a fun morning at the Pinball Co-op on Williston Road in South Burlington. All attendees will get free entrance to the Co-op, which will have 30+ pinball machines set to free play for 3 hours. We'll also have some ear protection for the kids who are a little sensitive to all the noise :)
RSVP Required
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
Playground Playgroup (Burlington)
The weather is warming up, meaning it’s the time of year where we get back out on the playground! There are tons of amazing playgrounds in the area, but let’s be honest, it’s always more fun when our kid has others to play with, and there are other caregivers to chat with. Or at least attempt to chat with as we chase our little ones around. See you out there!
FRANKLIN: Hike at Milton Town Pond
Join us for a hike at Milton Town Pond. Parking and meetup for this hike is pinned on this map here. If you have questions, feel free to message davegreiner@dadguild.org. We hike rain or shine!
[Yes, technically this is in Chittenden County, but we have marked it as Franklin County so folks can easily find it.]
Dads & Kids: Magic The Gathering Co-op
Is your kid a fan of Magic: The Gathering?
Are you?
Looking for a unique way to play together?
Then make sure to join us at Quarterstaff for this special event where Dads & Kids can play together as a cooperative team, a gamestyle known as Two-Headed Giant. Each team will be given two Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Hereos themed starter decks. Teams then play against other teams.
Event designed for dads with kids 10+
RSVP required: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
NOTE: this event takes place at Quarterstaff Games new location on Bank St.
FRANKLIN: St. Albans Free Library Playgroup
Join us at St. Albans Free Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Dave.
UPPER VALLEY: Mt. Ascutney Hike with Sierra Club Vermont
Dads and kids are invited to join the Vermont Chapter of the Sierra Club for a hike on Mount Ascutney’s Windsor Trail. The hike is a 5.2-mile round trip, an elevation gain of 2,520 feet, and a hiking time of approximately 4 hours.
Healthy snacks provided for all who RSVP. Pack your own water and lunch.
Meet at 9:40 a.m. at I-91 Exit 9 Park & Ride in Hartland
OR
at 10 a.m. at the trailhead (86 Back Mountain Rd., Windsor)
Questions? Message Jared at jared@dadguild.org.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
WASHINGTON: Montpelier Library Playgroup
Dads and kids are invited to join us at Kellogg-Hubbard Library for a dads and kids playgroup! We will be in the children's area.
If you'd like to learn more about Dad Guild's expansion in Washington County, feel free to send Dan Castrigano a message at dan@dadguild.org.
Note: We had originally planned for a hike at Hubbard Park for this morning, but we changed plans. We will now be hanging at the library!
FRANKLIN: Bright Side Playplace Playgroup
Join us at The Bright Side Playplace for a dads and kids playgroup!
To reserve your spot, head to this site and add the appropriate number of child tickets to your cart. Upon checkout, enter the code DADGUILD to reserve your tickets for free. This event is free for Dad Guild attendees. If you have questions, message dan@dadguild.org.
ADDISON: Nest and Gather Playgroup
Dads and kids are invited to join the first Dad Guild playgroup at Nest and Gather! To learn more about Nest and Gather, click here.
ADDISON: Vergennes Library Playgroup
Join us at Bixby Memorial Free Library for a drop-in playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. There will be Legos! This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Spencer.
Cardboard City
We’ve been having tons of fun with our kid-safe cardboard cutters. So much so that this will become a regular monthly event now, hosted by Dad Fellow Matthew.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
Playground Playgroup (Richmond)
The weather is warming up, meaning it’s the time of year where we get back out on the playground! There are tons of amazing playgrounds in the area, but let’s be honest, it’s always more fun when our kid has others to play with, and there are other caregivers to chat with. Or at least attempt to chat with as we chase our little ones around. See you out there!
FRANKLIN: Hike at Maquam Creek Trail
Join us for an easy, flat out-and-back hike at the Maquam Creek Trail. The trailhead is on North River Street (Route 78) pinned on this map here. If you have questions, feel free to message davegreiner@dadguild.org.
WASHINGTON: Hike at Hubbard Park
Dads and kids are invited to join us at Hubbard Park for a Saturday morning hike! We will build community and wander through the park together. Meet at the Frog Pond Parking Area on Parkway Street, and we will go from there.
We will hike rain or shine!
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
FRANKLIN: St. Albans Free Library Playgroup
Join us at St. Albans Free Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Dave.
ADDISON: Vergennes Library Playgroup
CANCELLED: Unfortunately, this event is now cancelled to due repair work at Bixby Memorial Free Library. See you next month!
Join us at Bixby Memorial Free Library for a drop-in playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. There will be Legos! This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Spencer.
Dads & Kids board games
Our dad board game group has been having so much fun, we thought to expand it and bring our kids along for a special “Dads & Kids” board games session. We’ll have two groups going, one for younger kids (4-7) and one for older (8+).
RSVP required
UPPER VALLEY: Elizabeth's Park Takeover
Don’t know about Elizabeth’s Park? Step into a Time Machine and be transported back to 80s childhood. The wooden playground is gigantic. Like, really gigantic.
Dad Fellow Jared Pendak will be supplying free coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks!
FRANKLIN: Bright Side Playplace Playgroup
Join us at The Bright Side Playplace for a dads and kids playgroup!
To reserve your spot, head to this site and add the appropriate number of child tickets to your cart. Upon checkout, enter the code DADGUILD to reserve your tickets for free. This event is free for Dad Guild attendees. If you have questions, message dan@dadguild.org.
Mother's Day Gift Basket Making
Want to give the mom in your life something special this Mother’s Day? On Saturday, May 2 from 10:00am - 11:30am, we’re inviting dads and their children to The Guild Hall for an afternoon of craft & gift making. We’ll have a variety of stations!
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
FRANKLIN: St. Albans Free Library Playgroup
Join us at St. Albans Free Library for a low-key playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Dave.
Dads & Kids Dinner @ St. Mike's (& Black Dad Hang)
Did you know that St. Michael’s University Green Mountain Dining Room is open to the public? We are willing to bet, maybe not.
Join us for a group Dads & Kids outing to grab a mid-week meal together, cafeteria style. We had so much fun we are glad to make this a regular event! Dinner is on us, we just ask that you RSVP in advance so we can provide an accurate count.
The dinner will also serve as April’s Black Dads Hang event.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search or reach out to Marlon
Fletcher Free Library Playgroup
Join us on the second Sunday of every month from 3:30pm - 5pm for a low-key playgroup at the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. We’ll be in the kids’ section, most likely sprawled out on the floor somewhere, attempting to have conversations with one another while our kids have other plans. Come with low expectations and you won’t leave disappointed.
FRANKLIN: Bright Side Playplace Playgroup
Join us at The Bright Side Playplace for a dads and kids playgroup!
To reserve your spot, head to this site and add the appropriate number of child tickets to your cart. Upon checkout, enter the code DADGUILD to reserve your tickets for free. This event is free for Dad Guild attendees. If you have questions, message dan@dadguild.org.
ADDISON: Vergennes Library Playgroup
Join us at Bixby Memorial Free Library for a drop-in playgroup where you can meet other dads and build community. There will be Legos! This playgroup is facilitated by Dad Fellow Spencer.
Cardboard City
We’ve been having tons of fun with our kid-safe cardboard cutters. So much so that this will become a regular monthly event now, hosted by Dad Fellow Matthew.
RSVP here: https://online.traxsolutions.com/dadguild/main#/search
ADDISON: Addison Community Center Indoor Playgroup
We are headed to Addison County! Dads and kids are invited to join our newest Dad Fellow Spencer for an indoor playgroup at the Addison Community Center. Lace up those sneakers!
Please RSVP for the event here.