The holiday season in the Mad River Valley is defined by more than twinkling lights and snowy mountains – it’s a season illuminated by community spirit. This year, the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce continues two cherished Valley traditions: the Star Kit program and the Mad River Valley Memory Tree.
Star Kit Program
For nearly 20 years, wooden stars have appeared on homes, barns, and businesses throughout The Valley, becoming one of the most recognizable symbols of the season. Originally created by Waitsfield Village business owners as a simple, whimsical celebration of the holidays, these stars transformed into something deeper following the tragic loss of five local students in 2016.
In the years since, stars – often grouped in fives – have served as quiet tributes of love and remembrance. The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce formalized this grassroots effort with the Star Kit program, turning the annual decoration into a meaningful fundraiser for the foundations established in the students’ memories.
Each Star Kit contains everything needed to build a 3-foot or 6-foot illuminated star: pre-drilled wooden cross sticks, hardware, lights, and a locally designed MRV sticker. Kits are purchased online and picked up at the chamber office.
All proceeds directly support the following organizations honoring Cyrus, Janie, Eli, Mary, and Liam:
- Cyrus Zschau L.I.F.T. – Cultural travel and global exposure for students.
- Janie Cozzi Foundation – Mentorship and opportunities for middle and high school girls.
- Eli Brookens Memorial Fund – Ski and snowboard program scholarships for middle schoolers.
- Mary Harris Fund for Mad River Park – Support for youth soccer and outdoor recreation.
- Liam Hale Adventure Scholarship – Access to skiing, riding, golf, and more at Sugarbush.
Purchase Star Kits: https://madrivervalley.com/shop/
Memory Tree
Another long-standing holiday tradition, the Memory Tree, offers residents and visitors a heartfelt way to honor loved ones or commemorate meaningful events. First launched by the Mad River Valley Lions Club in the 1970s and revived in 2013 by Joan Wilson, John Gallagher, and Nancy and Jess Mobley, the Memory Tree benefits a different local cause each year. For 2025, all donations support stewardMRV, the community-led program caring for The Valley’s popular outdoor access points. Dedications are $5 each or five for $20, and the Winthrop H. Smith Jr. Family Foundation generously matches every contribution. All dedications will be read aloud during the annual Memory Tree Lighting Ceremony, a moving moment of reflection and community connection.
Memory Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place Thursday, December 18, at 4:30 p.m. on the Slow Road in Irasville. Make a dedication: https://madrivervalley.com/shop/
From wood stars to glowing bulbs of remembrance on Slow Road, these two traditions reflect what makes the Mad River Valley so special: creativity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to community,” said chamber executive director Eric Friedman.
"Each year, it’s the people who make these traditions shine,” said Friedman. “The volunteers, the students, the donors, the families – they bring warmth and meaning to the season,” Friedman added.
Residents, visitors, and businesses are encouraged to purchase a Star Kit, make a Memory Tree dedication, and join the community on December 18 as The Valley officially lights up for the holidays.
You might also like
