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Update 6/24: This event is sold out. Join us in October!

Kick off the season in style as we celebrate Basin Harbor’s 140th anniversary and honor fourth-generation hosts, Pennie and Bob. This signature evening sets the tone for a summer of tradition, connection, and unforgettable moments on the shores of Lake Champlain.

Begin the night with a hosted cocktail reception overlooking the lake, followed by a festive plated dinner and an indulgent dessert buffet. We’ll raise a glass to Pennie and Bob, and then take to the dance floor as UltraViolet, an eight-piece band, fills the room with energy and celebration. It’s a night to gather with friends old and new, toast to 140 years of memories, and launch a season of fun that promises to be one to remember.

Whether you’re a longtime member, a local friend, or a visiting guest, this is your invitation to be part of the celebration and the traditions that make Basin Harbor so special.
 
$140 per person plus tax/service

Dress Code: Resort Cocktail Attire

Founder’s Dinner Menu

Cocktail Hour

Seasonal Roasted & Grilled Vegetables
A colorful display of locally sourced seasonal vegetables served with our house-made creamy herb and lemon vinaigrette.

Chilled New England Seafood Display
Fresh shrimp cocktail and seasonal seafood selections sourced from New England waters, accompanied by house-made cocktail sauce, citrus aioli, and signature dipping sauces.

Vermont Artisan Cheese & Charcuterie Board
A curated selection of local Vermont cheeses and cured meats, served with house-pickled vegetables, fresh and dried fruits, artisan crackers, crostini, and regional mustards.

Mini Crab Cakes
House-made crab cakes served with smoked paprika aioli.

Local Tomato & Mozzarella Bruschetta
Fresh Vermont tomatoes and mozzarella atop toasted crostini, finished with basil and extra virgin olive oil.

Dinner

All Dinner Selections Are Gluten-Free

First Course

Beet & Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, fresh orange segments, local mixed greens, and pickled shallots, dressed with a champagne maple vinaigrette.

Entrée

Duo of Herb-Seared Halibut & Filet of Beef
Herb-seared halibut topped with blood orange relish and seared filet of beef finished with garlic and herb-infused butter. Served with roasted local potatoes and steamed asparagus, finished with smoked olive oil, lemon zest, and sea salt.

Vegan Entrée

Wild Mushroom Risotto
Creamy risotto with wild mushrooms and sautéed Vermont spinach, finished with preserved lemon.

Dessert

Chef’s Tiered Dessert Display
An elegant assortment of handcrafted desserts and sweet bites beautifully presented on tiered displays for guests to enjoy throughout the evening.

Bon appétit and thank you for celebrating with us.

Join us for a week of family fun, patriotic traditions, lakeside celebrations, and classic summer memories as we celebrate Independence Day on the shores of Lake Champlain.

Sunday, June 28
Beach Party & Cardboard Boat Regatta

A Basin Harbor favorite returns with a patriotic twist.

Decorate your cardboard boat in red, white, and blue
Race for glory (and hopefully stay afloat!)
People’s Choice Award
Most Patriotic Boat Award
Guest boat decorating encouraged

Special Appearance: Champ serving complimentary popsicles at the waterfront.

All-American Ice Cream Social | Harbor Store

Cool off with a classic summer treat. Build-your-own sundae bar, Root beer floats, Patriotic toppings and treats

Tuesday, June 30
Family Field Day | Gatehouse Lawn

Gather the whole family for an afternoon of classic summer competition.

Events include: Sack races, Three-legged races, Egg-and-spoon race, Water balloon toss, Tug-of-war

Champ will be on hand cheering everyone on!

Wednesday, July 1
140 Years of American Summers

History Presentation with Bob Beach. Celebrate Basin Harbor’s 140th season with a special look back at generations of summer traditions.

Thursday, July 2
Patriotic Bike, Wagon & Golf Cart Parade | Waterfront

Decorate your favorite wheels and join the parade. Guests are invited to decorate: Bikes, Wagons, Scooters, Golf cartsAwards: Most Patriotic, Most Creative, Best Family Entry

Friday, July 3
Stars & Stripes Celebration | Red Mill

An unforgettable evening under the stars. Fireworks at sundown.

Saturday, July 4
Fourth of July Brunch | Ardelia’s, Lodge Lawn

Celebrate Independence Day with a festive brunch featuring:

Hosted Bloody Mary Bar + Mimosa Bar
Patriotic sing-along
Outdoor seating overlooking the lake
Expanded buffet stations outdoors

Fourth of July Pool Party | Pool Deck

A fun-filled celebration for all ages.

Activities include: Big Splash Contest, Water Balloon Toss, Pool Noodle Relays, Patriotic Friendship Bracelets, Mini Flag Decorating Station and poolside treats!

Saturday Night at The Red Mill
Red, White & Brews

Late Night at The Red Mill! Keep the celebration going with: Live DJ, bonfire and dancing the night away for America’s 250th!

We’re pleased to welcome new leadership to Basin Harbor’s Tennis & Pickleball Programs for our 140th season.

At Basin Harbor, recreation has always been about more than the game—it’s about connection, fresh air, friendly competition, and the simple joy of time spent together. As accomplished athletes, teaching professionals, and program directors, Jeanne Hulsen and Kristin Hartley share that same philosophy. They are passionate about building innovative instructional, recreational, competitive, and social programming that feels welcoming to beginners, engaging for experienced players, and true to the spirit of our lakeside community.

We’re excited for them to bring their experience, energy, and enthusiasm to the courts—creating opportunities for guests and members to learn new skills, stay active, and make lasting memories along the way.

Jeanne Hulsen
Jeanne brings decades of coaching and program leadership experience across collegiate, high school, and community athletics. She has coached collegiate women’s and men’s tennis and women’s volleyball, as well as varsity boys’ and girls’ tennis and volleyball at the high school level. She has also organized and coached youth development tennis programs and USTA adult tennis competitors.

Her administrative leadership includes roles as University of Vermont Campus Recreation Director, Burlington Tennis Summer Club leader, Burlington High School Athletics Director, and most recently Pickleball Director at the Sports and Fitness Edge.

Jeanne’s professional credentials include PPR Pro and PTR certifications. She is a DUPR + RPPK Master Instructor and has served on the USTA New England Board of Directors. She currently continues her service on the Board of USTA Vermont.

Kristin Hartley
Kristin brings a strong background in coaching, fitness, and community recreation programming. She has served as a pickleball instructor for POP, coached boys’ and girls’ high school tennis, organized and instructed youth development tennis programs, and created adult tennis competitive leagues and social events. She is also a personal fitness trainer and founder of the innovative Charlotte Rise Fitness BootCamp.

Her administrative experience includes management of the Burlington Tennis Club and service as Tennis Program Director and Charlotte Town Recreation Director.

Kristin’s credentials include High School Coaching Certification, Fitness Certification, and a pro bono attorney.

Whether it’s a morning clinic, a family match, or an evening social on the courts, Jeanne and Kristin will help ensure our tennis and pickleball programs reflect what makes Basin Harbor special—welcoming people of all ages, encouraging friendly competition, and bringing guests together in the spirit of play. We look forward to a wonderful season ahead.

There’s never been a better time to dive into summer at Basin Harbor. This season, we’re making waves—literally and figuratively—with new experiences and amenities designed to elevate your lakeside escape. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a solo recharge, our Vermont waterfront resort is packed with fresh reasons to return (or visit for the first time!).

Climb, Splash, Repeat: Our Newest Waterfront Feature

We’re thrilled to introduce the Giant Inflatable Climbing Wall—a brand-new centerpiece at the waterfront! Towering above the water, this thrilling feature invites guests of all ages to scale, splash, and repeat. It’s the ultimate lake adventure for anyone who loves a challenge and a good dose of adrenaline. Trust us—this will be the highlight of your summer vacation!

Complimentary Lake Excursions for Every Guest

Get ready to paddle out and soak up the beauty of Lake Champlain. This year, all overnight guests can enjoy complimentary use of kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Whether you’re cruising solo on a quiet morning or exploring the shoreline with the whole family, your next water adventure is included in your stay.

Free Court Time: Game On

Calling all tennis players and pickleball pros (and first-timers too)! Court rentals are now complimentary for all overnight guests. Grab a racquet and challenge your crew to a friendly match—or take advantage of our beautiful lakeside courts for a solo game with a view. Pickleball lovers will be thrilled to hear our newly refreshed courts are ready for action. Clinics, private lessons and group programming are available during our summer season for an additional cost.

Family Fun, Unplugged and Unforgettable

From lazy lake days and lawn games to s’mores by the bonfire and evening concerts on the Green, Basin Harbor is built for memory-making. With new activities, returning favorites, and more all-inclusive amenities, it’s the perfect destination for multigenerational getaways and classic New England summer traditions.

Ready to Plan Your Summer Escape?

Whether you’re a returning guest or discovering our lakeside paradise for the first time, there’s always something new to explore at Basin Harbor. Book your summer getaway now and be among the first to experience everything that makes this season the most exciting one yet.

Want to get out and explore while you’re in Vermont? Check out the favorite peaks and views of Sarah, your 5th-generation host!

Many locals hike Snake Mountain year-round—each visit feels new! So whether you’re exploring new trails or revisiting favorites, Vermont’s hiking scene never disappoints. If you loved Snake Mountain, check out Mt. Philo in Charlotte for similar sweeping Champlain Valley views with a shorter but rewarding climb. A Vermont State Park, Mt. Philo offers both a paved road and an interior trail with stairs—perfect for a quick hike or multiple loops to match Snake Mountain’s challenge.

For a deeper Green Mountain adventure, head an hour inland for longer, summit-worthy hikes:

• Mt. Abraham (Lincoln) – A classic Long Trail peak with stunning views. View details.
• Sky Pond Trail (Ripton) – A scenic, tranquil hike through Vermont’s forests. View details.
• Camel’s Hump (Huntington) – One of Vermont’s most iconic and rewarding climbs. View details.

We are thrilled to announce Basin Harbor welcomed a new Executive Chef this month. With over 35 years of experience in the world of gastronomy, Chef Philippe joined the Basin Harbor team that will host you for the 138th season. Trained in the culinary crucible of Paris, Philippe’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the art of cooking.

With degrees in French culinary arts, Philippe’s career began in the fine restaurants of Paris, including the exclusive Polo Club of Paris, known for catering to Europe’s elite for centuries.

Transitioning across the Atlantic, he found success in the United States and Canada, owning and leading thriving restaurants that blended French tradition with global flair.

In 2016, Philippe’s exceptional talent earned him a nomination for the prestigious title of French Master Chef, a recognition of his culinary prowess. Beyond his culinary creations, Philippe is an educator, sharing his expertise with aspiring chefs at the college level in the Culinary Arts. Known for his innovative approach, Philippe crafts dishes with uncommon ingredient combinations, surprising and delighting diners.

His culinary journey began in his mother’s kitchen in Provence, where he learned the rich flavors of the region and explored Meridionale cuisine, fusing tastes from France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and North Africa. Today, as the Executive Chef of Basin Harbor, Philippe is eager to create “fine dining experiences” that transform each dish into a visual and gustatory masterpiece for our guests.

In the upcoming season, prepare for an unparalleled gastronomic voyage as Chef Philippe Ducrot takes your palate on an exploration of flavors, tradition, and innovation. Basin Harbor promises to be the epicenter of culinary excellence, redefining your understanding of culinary artistry. Bon appétit!

Join us for the Golden Hour concert series on Wednesday, August 9th with special guest Ryan Montbleau! $1 from every Zero Gravity can sold and 50% of proceeds from the Full Belly Food Truck will go toward NOFA-VT Farmer Emergency Fund. This fund provides grants and 0% loan to certified organic and NOFA-VT member farms experiencing emergencies that can’t be covered by insurance. Donations will be quickly mobilized to farms as they repair from the storm.

Lace-up your running shoes and get ready to join us for the 22nd Annual M&T Bank Basin Harbor 5k. Please note this race has been rescheduled to July 15th, 2023 due to inclimate weather and trail conditions. The course winds through the resort on both paved and gravel along the shores of Lake Champlain.

Pre-registration is now closed, if you are looking to participate there will be day-of registration from 8:00am – 8:45am.

RACE DETAILS:

• 8:00 AM – 8:45 am Race Registration
• 9:00 AM Race begins!

Race Info

• Ample parking available on site.
• Water station and snacks will be available for runners.
• Other food and drink are available in the Main Lodge in the Breezeway Gift Shop.

Thank you to our friends at M&T Bank for sponsoring this year’s 5k!

Legends of Champ have lived long before Lake Champlain had its name. The Abenaki and the Iroquois have their own legends about a large creature inhabiting the lake, which looked like a large, horned serpent or giant snake. By 1992, over 600 people claimed to have seen Champ all over the lake. Local lore insists Champ lives across the lake from Basin Harbor in underwater caves beneath the Palisades. Pennie shared that “several staff members and guests have seen Champ over the years. Curiously, most sightings have been during cocktail hour”. Have you had a Champ sighting?