Nestled at the foot of the Green Mountains, Bristol is a quaint village of about 3800 friends and neighbors.  Bristol was chartered in 1762 and originally named Pocock, in honor of a distinguished English admiral of that name.  The name was changed to Bristol in 1789, but the town still celebrates its heritage during the annual Pocock Rocks Street Fair in June.

Bristol loves festivals. It hosts one of the best July 4th celebrations in the state, recently profiled in Vermont Life magazine, and features the longest-running Outhouse Race in the country, just completing its 30th year. The two-day celebration also includes fireworks, a parade, music, a 5k-charity race and a festival on the town green.

Bristol’s entire downtown is a National Historic District.  Step back in time to explore friendly village shops that satisfy every interest including music, antiques, art, home accessories, gifts, vintage collectibles, clothing and Vermont products.  Stop at cafes and bakeries for scrumptious sweets and sandwiches, and dine at restaurants with menu selections offering everything from pizza to filet mignon.

The Bristol town green has been a central part of our village throughout its history.  The Bristol Band has presented outdoor summer band concerts in the gazebo on the town green every Wednesday from June through Labor Day since shortly after the Civil War.  Folks bring their lawn chairs, visit with their neighbors and enjoy the music.  Other events happen year-round on the green from chicken barbeques to outdoor movies, from Cool Yule to the fall Harvest Festival.