Spring has officially arrived in Burlington, and with it, the return of one of Burlington’s favorite summer pastimes - Vermont Lake Monsters baseball. Opening Day is just around the corner, and the 2025 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, but also 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 a summer evening at the park with great local food vendors, talented players, and high-fives from Champ, the Lake Monster’s mascot.
"After 30 seasons, the Vermont Lake Monsters are woven into the fabric of Burlington,” stated C.J. Knudsen, Senior Vice President of the Vermont Lake Monsters. “ We truly do have the best fans in baseball, and the 2025 season will mark our 3,000,000 millionth fan season."
With promotions, fireworks, family-friendly fun, and hometown heroes on the roster, there’s never been a better time to come out and cheer for the Vermont Lake Monsters and help them reach the three millionth fan milestone.
Local Talent & Beyond
Look out for veterans who’ve been with the team for multiple seasons, as well as promising locals like Nick Kelly, South Burlington High School Class of 2024, and Zach Davis, Colchester High School Class of 2024. Keep your eyes on the dugout; you might just spot the next Ethan Anderson in the making.
“Being in the stands as a kid, I’ve always wanted to play for the Lake Monsters,” says Nick Kelly. “So last year, getting the chance to play for the team was surreal. I’ve always felt connected to the team and the community around it, so it’s just cool to be back!”
The Lake Monsters attract many out-of-state players for more than just the game, but for the summertime Vermont vibe. The Vermont Lake Monsters are part of the Futures League, meaning players are scouted and drafted while still playing for the love of the game and, for some, a dream shot at the big leagues.
More Than Baseball – A Community Beacon
The Vermont Lake Monsters are committed to more than just great baseball. Through 50/50 raffles and “Food Bank Fridays,” they have donated over $270,000 back to the community. Their partnership during the 2024 season with the Fletcher Free Library even allows fans to score six free passes by showing their library card, a program that will expand to other Vermont libraries in 2025, including Westford, Pierson (Shelburne), Starksboro Public Library, and Burnham Memorial (Colchester).
The Lake Monsters Experience
Whether it’s the hot dog race, the beloved Pennies Pickles cart in the 2nd inning, or the Rescue Club van delivering water to umpires, every night at Centennial Field offers something memorable. Some other exciting initiatives to look forward to include the following:
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Three fireworks nights
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Three 25¢ hot dog nights (over 25,000 sold in 2024)
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Kids eat free every Wednesday
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Free face painting on Sundays
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And for foodies, local McKenzie hot dogs, Wilcox ice cream, craft beer, and the park-born Champ’s Fiery hot sauce
The Heart of Burlington
So, mark your calendars. Grab your cap, bring your kids, and meet the Vermont Lake Monsters for another unforgettable summer. Who knows, you might just be the three millionth fan through the gate!
