The Shires Holiday Inn Tours Raises $4,350 For Local Food Programs
The Manchester Business Association, in partnership with the Shires of Southwestern Vermont DMO, proudly presented the Shires Holiday Inn Tours again this past holiday season. Continuing a cherished tradition that spans over three decades, the "Shires Holiday Inn Tours" offered guests the chance to experience the festive spirit of 16 local lodging properties, including historic hotels, cozy inns, charming B&Bs, and scenic lodges, on Saturday, December 7, and Saturday, December 14. A total of 283 attendees were welcomed with holiday cheer as they toured these beautifully decorated lodging establishments across Bennington County, where they enjoyed seasonal beverages, local treats, and the warm, inviting atmosphere that Vermont is known for.
“‘Tis the season for giving,’ and there’s no better time to support those in need, as every ticket sold directly helps address food insecurity,” reads the event page on ExploreTheShires.com. All proceeds from ticket sales benefitted the Manchester Community Food Cupboard, the Arlington Food Shelf, and Meals on Wheels of Bennington County. Tickets were available for purchase throughout November and into mid-December, with individual tickets priced at $20 and two-person tickets offered at $30.
"This year, thanks to the generosity of our participating lodging partners, the Shires Holiday Inn Tours raised an impressive $4,350," said John Burnham, Executive Director of the Manchester Business Association and producer of the event. "We couldn’t have achieved this without the unwavering support of our participating lodging partners. Their festive spirit and dedication truly made this year’s event a success, spreading holiday joy and making a tangible difference in our community."
Jack Orlando, owner of The Inn at Ormsby Hill, shared, “We received so much positive feedback from visitors who truly appreciated us opening our doors for them. Many said they make this a yearly tradition, while others were first-time visitors. We had people travel from Boston, Massachusetts, as well as the Capital Region and Saratoga.” He added, “It was great to meet these folks—there were so many wonderful conversations.”
Tajlei Levis, innkeeper at the Wilburton Inn, noted, “We loved being part of the inn tours. Visitors seemed to enjoy everything, and it was especially nice for locals to see the inns without needing to stay overnight.”
"This event continues to highlight the generosity and spirit of our community," said Matt Harrington of the Shires of Southwestern Vermont DMO. "Every ticket purchased, every inn that opened its doors, and every smile shared has contributed to a greater purpose—helping those in need. It’s a perfect example of how we come together as a region, especially during the holidays, to make a meaningful impact. I am incredibly grateful to our partners, participants, and all those who supported the Shires Holiday Inn Tours. Together, we’ve turned a beloved tradition into action that benefits our local food shelves."
The 16 properties who participated in the 2024 Shires Holiday Inn Tours were South Shire Inn, Four Chimney’s Inn, The West Mountain Inn, The Arlington Inn, The Ira Allen House, Hill Farm, North Shire Lodge, The Inn at Ormsby Hill, Kimpton Taconic Hotel, Wilburton Destination Resort, The Equinox Golf Resort and Spa, The Reluctant Panther, Hampton Inn & Suites, Barrows House Inn, The Dorset Inn, and the Wilson House.
