Your Guide to Summer in the Champlain Islands: Local Events, Outdoor Adventures & More

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Asian woman and Black man, both dressed in casual cycling gear, stand by their mountain bikes by the lake, basking in the soft glow of dawn.

There are few places better than the Champlain Islands in the summer. Long evenings on Lake Champlain, live music under the stars, local festivals, scenic bike rides, and small-town charm make South Hero one of Vermont’s favorite warm-weather destinations.

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or you’re lucky enough to call the Islands home, summer is the perfect time to explore everything this corner of Vermont has to offer. And while you’re out making memories, don’t forget to stop by Lake Effect for locally grown cannabis, friendly recommendations, and products that pair perfectly with your next adventure.

Here’s what we’re looking forward to this summer.

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Explore Vermont with the Cannatrail Passport

One of the coolest ways to experience Vermont’s cannabis community is through the Cannatrail Passport.

Created by the Cannabis Retailers Association of Vermont, the passport encourages adults 21+ to visit participating dispensaries throughout the state while exploring local restaurants, breweries, parks, and attractions along the way.

Lake Effect is proud to be one of the participating stops.

Whether you’re road-tripping across Vermont or spending the day exploring the Champlain Islands, we’ll gladly stamp your passport while helping you discover Vermont-grown flower, pre-rolls, edibles, concentrates, beverages, and more.

It’s a fun excuse to see more of the state—and support local businesses while you’re doing it.

Enjoy Live Music All Summer Long

Summer concerts just hit differently when they’re outside.

Just minutes from Lake Effect, Two Heroes Brewery regularly hosts live music, food trucks, trivia nights, and community events throughout the season. It’s an easy way to spend an evening after a day on the lake.

Another local favorite is the Snow Farm Summer Concert Series, where nationally touring musicians perform on the shores of Lake Champlain. Bring a lawn chair, pack a picnic, and enjoy one of Vermont’s most beautiful outdoor music venues.

Heading to a show?

Stop by Lake Effect beforehand and let our team help you find products that fit the evening—whether you’re looking for something relaxing, uplifting, or simply easy to enjoy after the music starts.

Play One of Vermont’s Most Scenic Golf Courses

If golf is on your summer checklist, Apple Island Golf Course deserves a tee time.

Located only a few minutes from Lake Effect, this championship-style public course winds through beautiful lakefront scenery and has become a favorite for both locals and visitors.

After your round, swing by the dispensary before heading home—or stock up beforehand so you’re ready to unwind once the clubs are packed away.

Three cheerful friends laughing and enjoying cold beers together, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of an outdoor summer festival

Come See Us at the Vermont Brewers Festival

One event we’re especially excited about this summer is the Vermont Brewers Festival.

Lake Effect is proud to sponsor this year’s event and will be co-branding our booth alongside of Sunset Lake Cannabis.

If you’re attending, we’d love for you to stop by, say hello, and learn a little more about what makes Vermont’s cannabis community so special. It’s always one of our favorite weekends of the summer, bringing together local breweries, food vendors, music, and thousands of visitors from across New England.

Ride Vermont’s Incredible Trail Network

Few places rival Vermont when it comes to mountain biking.

That’s why we’re proud supporters of the Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA), whose volunteers help build, improve, and maintain hundreds of miles of trails throughout the state.

Whether you’re tackling technical singletrack or enjoying a leisurely ride through the woods, supporting organizations like VMBA helps preserve the outdoor experiences that make Vermont such an incredible place to explore.

Make the Most of Summer in South Hero

The best Vermont summer days don’t need much of an itinerary.

Spend the morning on the golf course. Grab lunch from a local restaurant. Catch live music in the evening. Explore the Cannatrail. Ride your favorite trails. Visit the Brewers Festival. Watch the sunset over Lake Champlain.

Somewhere along the way, stop by Lake Effect.

Located in South Hero, we’re proud to offer one of Vermont’s best selections of locally grown cannabis, featuring premium flower, pre-rolls, edibles, beverages, concentrates, vapes, and more from trusted cultivators across the state.

Whether you’re planning a weekend in the Champlain Islands or simply making the most of another Vermont summer, we’re here to help you find products that fit the moment.

We’ll see you this summer.

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Cannabis has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For use by individuals 21 years of age and older or registered qualifying patient only. KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN AND PETS. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING. Possession or use of cannabis may carry significant legal penalties in some jurisdictions and under federal law. It may not be transported outside of the state of Vermont. The effects of edible cannabis may be delayed by two hours or more. Cannabis may be habit forming and can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Persons 25 years and younger may be more likely to experience harm to the developing brain. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product. National Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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