Spring has officially arrived in Burlington, and with it, the return of one of the city's favorite summer traditions, Vermont Lake Monsters baseball. Opening Day is just around the corner, and the 2026 season promises all the action, heart, and hot dogs we've come to expect from this one-of-a-kind team.
Take me out to Centennial Field
Centennial Field isn't just the seventh-oldest ballpark in the world — it's part of the soul of Vermont baseball. Built in 1906 for the University of Vermont, with the grandstand added in 1922, it remains a time capsule of America's pastime. From UVM players to future MLB prospects, generations have stepped onto this field with big dreams and bat in hand. Fans enjoy summer evenings at the park with great local food vendors, talented players, and high-fives from Champ, the Lake Monsters' beloved mascot.
The 2026 season kicks off on May 30th at Delta Dental Diamond at Centennial Field — a fresh start, a full ballpark, and everything that makes summer in Burlington worth savoring.
More than baseball — A Community Beacon
The Vermont Lake Monsters are committed to far more than great baseball. Through 50/50 raffles and "Food Bank Fridays," the organization has donated over $270,000 back to the community. Their beloved library partnership — which lets fans score free admission by showing a Vermont library card — continues to grow, now reaching libraries across the state including Westford, Pierson (Shelburne), Starksboro Public Library, and Burnham Memorial (Colchester).
Special nights this season also put community front and center. Dig In Against Cancer Night on May 31st sees the team take the field in special lavender jerseys dedicated to the cancer community, while First Responders Night on June 25th honors the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and emergency personnel who serve Vermont every day.
The Lake Monsters experience
Whether it's the hot dog race, the beloved Pennies Pickles cart, or Champ rallying the crowd, every night at Centennial Field offers something memorable. The 2026 season is packed with themed promotions and giveaways, including:
Opening Day May 30 — a fresh start to the summer
Fanny Pack Giveaway June 4 — first 500 fans, presented by NE Delta Dental
Educator Appreciation June 6 — free admission for teachers + one guest
School's Out 4 Summer June 10 — end-of-year celebration for families
Hot Dog Hysteria June 22 — 25¢ hot dogs and a packed house
Expos Night June 24 — honoring the 30-year franchise championship anniversary
Wild West Night June 26 — line dancing, lassos, and full ballpark fun
Father's Day Game June 21 — a Sunday afternoon built for dads and families
And for foodies: local McKenzie hot dogs, Wilcox ice cream, craft beer, and the park-born Champ's Fiery hot sauce are all back for another season.
The Heart of Burlington
So mark your calendars. Grab your cap, bring your kids, and head to Centennial Field for another unforgettable summer with the Vermont Lake Monsters. From Mustache Mayhem to Margaritaville Night to World Cup Night, there's a reason every seat feels like home.
First pitch is May 30th. We'll see you there.
