Whether you’re native to Vermont or guest of The Green Mountain State, there are many opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy nature. Consider celebrating the season at one of Vermont’s top winter events. Selected by a panel of independent judges, these blue ribbon activities are chosen for their creativity, diversity, and widespread appeal. This year’s Vermont Chamber Top 5 Winter Events feature time-honored traditions as well as contemporary experiences across all regions of the state.

Stowe Tour de Snow

Where: Stowe, Vermont

When: January 20, 2013, 12-4 p.m.

Get stoked in Stowe as the village showcases its best for the Tour de Snow! Ski, walk, snowshoe or run along the Stowe Recreation Path, where families and friends come together to participate in activities grouped into stations hosted by local businesses. Warm up to new exercises, take aim in paintball target shooting, stretch the limits in yoga, fly through the Nordic terrain park, find your snow legs in the “Learn to Ski Clinic,” race to the finish in kick-sled challenges, shoot a hockey puck, weave a slalom course, and more. Create environmentally themed crafts, and stay cozy with hot cider and s’mores. Admission is$5. For more information visit stowetourdesnow.com or call (802) 253-9216.

Chester Winter Carnival

Where: Chester, Vermont

When: February 15 – 17, 2013

The town of Chester opens its heart in mid-February. True community spirit in classic Vermont is evidenced with sled races, a scavenger hunt, dog sled rides, outdoor skating, and more. The weekend kicks off with a Winter Carnival Dinner on Friday. A biathlon sled and laser shooting match followed by a bonfire lights up Saturday, and Sunday’s highlight is the snowmobile club poker run and a broom hockey tournament. Admission is free. For more information visit yourplaceinvermont.com or call (802) 875-2693.

Wright’s Northeast Kingdom Ice Fishing Derby

Where: Newport, Vermont

When: February 21 - 24, 12 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Fishing in the winter? You bet! Observe or compete to catch the big one on the ice with Wright’s Northeast Kingdom Fishing Derby. Hook awards in the salmon, trout, walleye, and pike categories. Derby locations comprise about a dozen lakes and ponds near the Canadian border, including Lake Memphremagog which straddles two countries in international waters. Admission is $25. For more information visit wrightssports.com or call (802) 334-6115.

Vermont Chili Festival

Where: Middlebury, Vermont

When: March 9, 2013, 1 p.m.

Middlebury is full of beans for the 5th Annual Vermont Chili Festival! More than 50 local and regional restaurants will be on hand to compete for awards. Enjoy chili created with Vermont-sourced ingredients and cast your vote: Best Beef, Chicken, Pork, Game, Veggie, Kitchen Sink, and Best Overall. Stroll down Middlebury’s historic Main Street and revel in a carnival of street jugglers, face painting, live music, and more. Warm up in the Cocoa Cabana with hot cocoa and cider, and attend the award ceremony in the beverage tent. Admission is $5. For more information visit bettermiddleburypartnership.org or call (802) 377-3557.

18th Annual Magic Hat Mardi Gras Weekend

Where: Burlington, Vermont

When: March 1-2, 2013

Music, mayhem, and more! Magic Hat’s Mardi Gras weekend thaws the icy spirits of the Northeast with a unique celebration that could be dubbed New Orleans North. Friday night, kick off the weekend, kick up your feet, and boogie down at local music venue Higher Ground. On Saturday, downtown Burlington turns up the heat with pre-parade musical performances, as well as a costume contest, free photo booth, and other fun, family-friendly activities along Church Street. Join the inspired audience; grab your share of beads, MoonPies, and Lake Champlain Chocolates as the parade kicks off with dozens of floats in grand style. For more information visit magichat.net or call(802) 658-BREW.