Be Part Of The Story That Continues
This year, thanks to you, we celebrated new businesses, created opportunities for neighbors to connect, and added color and life through events, art, and local partnerships. None of this year’s progress would have been possible without you.
Wilmington Works exists to build, support, and improve our downtown for the benefit of the whole town. Here’s what your support made possible in 2026:
Historic Tax Credits
Preserving Our Past: How Historic Credits Support Downtown Revitalization —
Historic Tax Credits are a valuable incentive that can be used for a variety of improvements, including structural rehabilitation, code compliance, and exterior upgrades—all with the goal of maintaining the historic integrity of our downtowns. In Vermont, these credits are offered through the Downtown and Village Center Tax Credit Program, which is only available to properties located within a state-designated downtown or village center. That’s where Wilmington Works comes in, we’ve proudly taken on the responsibility of maintaining Wilmington’s state designation, allowing our community to access important financial tools like these.
Most recently, 1 East Main Street received tax credits to support improvements to one of the prominent storefronts at our Four Corners. Two new retail businesses have opened, bringing fresh energy and new offerings to downtown, while plans are underway to create four new apartments. These investments are helping breathe new life into the heart of our community and creating more opportunities for people to live, work, shop, and gather downtown.
We’re excited to see more building owners take advantage of this opportunity, and we’re here to help guide them through the process.
Downtown Events
Events that bring our community together
At Wilmington Works, creating opportunities for connection, celebration, and community is at the heart of what we do. Over the years, we’ve hosted a wide variety of events that offer something for everyone—locals and visitors alike. While we continue to innovate, several signature events have become beloved traditions in downtown Wilmington.
As part of the annual Blueberry Festival, we close South Main Street for a lively street party featuring delicious food vendors, talented artisans, and incredible live music in the intersection! It’s a summer highlight that brings energy and joy to the heart of the downtown.
Each summer, we host two themed Village Strolls designed to draw folks downtown and encourage exploration of local shops and businesses. Every stroll features a unique theme, but one in particular has captured the community’s imagination, our Fairy Stroll. After receiving overwhelming positive feedback, we made it an annual tradition, enchanting visitors of all ages.
In the fall, we continue the fun with our first-ever Downtown Scarecrow Competition, bringing creativity and seasonal charm to our downtown. We also help plan Wilmington’s annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat, creating a festive, family-friendly atmosphere and giving local businesses an opportunity to welcome trick-or-treaters.
Our annual December event supports small businesses during the busy holiday season. It’s a festive push to keep holiday spending local, and a great way to discover one of a kind gifts.
With support from the BDCC’s GROW grant, we’ve introduced New Resident Events twice yearly gatherings designed to welcome new members of our community. These events are open to all and provide a great opportunity for newcomers to meet neighbors, learn more about Wilmington, and feel right at home.
From long standing favorites to exciting new offerings, our events are about more than just fun, they strengthen the local economy, foster community pride, and make downtown Wilmington a welcoming place for all.
“I became involved with Wilmington Works during it's inception after Tropical Storm Irene. I have lived in Wilmington since 1978 and raised my three children here. Wilmington has been very good to me and I love this town. I enjoy volunteering and feel it is my way of giving back. I have also met some wonderful people volunteering!”
—Diane Chapman
Volunteerism
Unlike larger organizations, your support to Wilmington Works goes straight into the heart of downtown — where it’s felt immediately, by real people, in lasting ways.
This year, your gift will help us launch even more community-driven projects — from beautification efforts to public art, small business support, and joyful, welcoming events.
This year, your gift will help us launch even more community-driven projects — from beautification efforts to public art, small business support, and joyful, welcoming events.
We know you have many choices when it comes to giving. But if you love Wilmington — its walkable charm, its thriving businesses, and the people who make it special — we invite you to give local.
Because when you support Wilmington Works, you support Wilmington itself.
P.S. Your donation of any size makes a direct difference. Thank you for being part of this work.
Wilmington Works is a public charity 501(c)(3)