Burly Bear
and Vermont Bear Film Festival
Burly Bear was started so guys of all stripes could come together and laugh, dance, have a drink and make out—all while raising much needed funds to support Pride Vermont and other valuable LGBTQ organizations. The events started in 2007 and are based out of Red Square in Burlington almost monthly, with the Pride Week events including a tea dance on the patio/alley (Thorsen Way) complete with a “Best Chest” contest. It’s often that guest DJs from outside of Vermont will be tapped to spin alongside local favorites. The events are run by David Grenier and Chris Vaccaro.
The Vermont Bear Film Festival, also started in the mid 00’s, is a private independent film festival, devoted to bears and bear admirers. Held in the foothills of the Green Mountains, southern Vermont. It’s an occasion for guys to eat, drink, and be merry… and see some great films too. The festival is located on an old country road just over the Massachusetts line in Guilford, Vermont, with acres of secluded fields and woods. Clothing optional for the guys who like to let it all hang out. Program director John Scagliotti creates a diverse program of films. The festival includes shorts, features, documentaries, narratives, etc. All themes are welcome and considered for the program.
