Every summer, the small town of Brattleboro, Vermont transforms into a celebration of all things dairy. The ‘Strolling of the Heifers’ parade features flower-adorned cows walking calmly down Main Street instead of the running bulls of Spain. This unique festival honors Vermont’s farming heritage and brings the community together to appreciate the importance of local agriculture.
Flower-Crowned Bovine Beauties
Young heifers adorned with colorful flower garlands and festive ribbons become the stars of the show. These gentle creatures walk alongside their proud farmers, showcasing the bond between humans and animals that sustains Vermont’s dairy industry.
The contrast of these docile animals against the backdrop of historic Brattleboro creates a picturesque scene that photographers love. Visitors often gasp with delight when they see the first decorated cow turn the corner onto Main Street.
Unlike traditional parades with mechanical floats, this organic procession moves at the relaxed pace of the cows themselves—a reminder to slow down and appreciate rural rhythms.
A Community Gathering With Rural Roots
Founded in 2002 by Orly Munzing, this celebration quickly became more than just a parade. The festival grew from a simple idea into a beloved tradition that attracted thousands of visitors annually to this southeastern Vermont town.
Local businesses would prepare for months, decorating storefronts with cow-themed displays and creating special farm-to-table menus. Farmers from surrounding counties viewed the event as a chance to connect directly with consumers and share their stories.
Children particularly loved the interactive agricultural exhibits where they could learn about milking, cheese-making, and sustainable farming practices through hands-on activities.
Beyond Cows: A Full Agricultural Showcase
“Why should cows get all the attention?” seemed to be the question as the parade evolved over the years. While heifers remained the headliners, the procession grew to include other farm animals—goats prancing with bells, woolly sheep in colorful yarn accessories, and even dignified llamas sporting bow ties.
Vintage tractors rumbled down the street, driven by farmers whose families had worked the same land for generations. 4-H club members proudly walked with their animal projects, demonstrating the next generation’s commitment to agriculture.
The diversity of creatures and equipment showcased Vermont’s rich farming ecosystem beyond just dairy.
Farm-to-Table Festival Follows the Parade
After the last heifer strolled by, the celebration continued with a vibrant festival that took over the town. The aroma of fresh-baked bread, local cheeses, and maple-infused treats filled the air as vendors showcased Vermont’s agricultural bounty.
Live music from local bands created a festive atmosphere while cooking demonstrations taught visitors how to prepare meals using seasonal ingredients. Farmers’ market stalls overflowed with colorful produce, artisanal products, and handcrafted goods.
The festival emphasized the “know your farmer” philosophy, with producers explaining their sustainable practices and the importance of supporting local food systems for both environmental and economic health.
Legacy and Impact on Vermont Agriculture
Though the Strolling of the Heifers parade ended in 2022 after the challenges of the pandemic, its legacy continues through several initiatives funded by the organization. The Winston Prouty Center received $175,000 to connect residents with local food sources, while $250,000 went to the Agritech Institute for Small Farms.
The event successfully raised awareness about the challenges facing small-scale dairy operations in an era of industrial agriculture. Many visitors who attended the parade later became committed supporters of local farms.
While the parade itself may be gone, its spirit lives on in Vermont’s continued dedication to sustainable farming and agricultural education.
