Upcoming events.
Cirque Du Funk: Haunted Disco!
Vermont!! The ultimate Halloween party is coming to Afterthoughts in Waitsfield, VT!!
Cirque Du Funk - Haunted Disco
What should you expect?
~ Spooky shenanigans ~
~ Wild visual crazyness ~
~ A special trio set by Ryan Dempsey (of TWIDDLE) x Lee Ross x Bill Rose
~ DJ set by Tobin Ellsworth
AND MORE!!
Presented in conjunction with The Black Kitty
Green Mountain Cabaret Presents: Geeks & Cheeks
Audience Assemble! Green Mountain Cabaret is bringing you an awesome mix of acts in true Nerdlesque fashion with their salute to Geek and Nerd Culture. From pop culture phenomenons to comic book cuties, our Burlesque and Drag performers will make geek chic, one act at a time. Join us as we "Enjoy The View"! Ages 18+,
Doors at 7:30
Show at 8 pm.
MAD RIVER SENIORS 2nd ANNUAL STICK SEASON DANCE PARTY
Calling all the 60+ groovers, disco legends, and dance-floor troublemakers — it’s time to trade the couch for the dance floor. We’ve got the tunes, the drinks, and the excuse you’ve been looking for to stay out past your bedtime.
📍 Afterthoughts | Waitsfield, VT
🎶 Good music. Good people.
What better time to get out, turn it UP, and dance like nobody’s checking your cholesterol? 😂🕺💃
CLINT BIERMAN & PETER DAY
Come join Clint Bierman and Peter Day as they run through a bunch of their solo music for a night that will be a little different than The Grift. Doors at 8pm, Show at 8:30pm, Tickets $10 Advance (plus $2.64 for Seven Days) or $15 at the door —if there's room!
THANKSGIVING EVE DANCE PARTY w/cRAIG mITCHELL
Wobble before the Gobble! Here’s your chance to let loose before the big eat!
Join DJ cRAIG mITCHELL on the dance floor for a pre-Turkey day celebration! No Cover. 8:30PM
HIGH COUNTRY HUSTLE: Colorado Bluegrass
Don’t miss High Country Hustle stopping in from Durango, Colorado for some Rocky Mountain High Bluegrass.
@andy_gallen - Guitar and Vocals
@chuck_hank - Bass and Vocals
@dr.dofiddle - Fiddle and Vocals
@hchseth - Mandolin and Vocals
Pointe Noir Cajun Band
Pointe Noir delivers lively Cajun tunes rooted in the traditions of Southwest Louisiana, powered by accordion, fiddle, and a rhythm section built to keep dancers moving. Equal parts seasoned tradition and joyful discovery, their high-energy sets welcome everyone—no Cajun dance experience required, just a willingness to jump in and have fun.
Cannon Labrie
Cannon (accordion) is a long-time Cajun and Zydeco player who also plays with Yankee Chank and Planet Zydeco.
Katie Trautz
Katie (fiddle) needs no introduction in Vermont, where she was named Woman of the Year in 2024.
Jay Ekis
Jay (guitar) plays everything from indie folk to heavy metal, always with his amp turned way up!
Chris Hollis
Chris (guitar) is also an avid old-time player and half of the Spring Chickens duo.
Helen Doyle
Helen (bass) started playing Cajun music in 2018 when her friends needed a bassist. Seven years later she started to like Cajun music.
Michael Bradshaw
Michael (drums) has played in bands most of his life in a variety of musical styles. His versatile grooves can be heard behind the Zydeco soul of Mango Jam, Vermont surf rockers Barbacoa and many more.
BOOTS & BURGERS: LINE DANCING W/JENNA
LINE DANCING w/JENNA FROM GOOD TIME LINE DANCING. HALLOWEEN EDITION!
COSTUMES ENCOURAGED!
6-8PM $10
KARAOKE w/ LUCY GOOSEY
Sing your heart out with Lucy Goosey on Friday, October 23rd.
No Cover.
All are welcome!
Sing a song or put on a whole performance. You do you.
Live Music: Brendan Daniel (of Town Meeting) and Jude Roberts (of The Mammals).
Indie folk singer-songwriters Jude Roberts and Brendan Daniel bring an intimate evening of heartfelt songs, rich melodies, and thoughtful storytelling to the Mad River Valley. Evocative, honest songwriting, sweet harmonies and badass harmonica playing are all on the menu.
Community Conversation w/Amanda Janoo & Molly Gray
UPDATE: Amanda will NOT be in attendance. Amanda will be preparing the first two debates this week with Phil Scott. Mike and Molly will still be in attendance with Mike sharing about Amanda’s campaign and vision for Vermont. I know this is disappointing for many and we apologize for the change. We hope you will still join to be in community, enjoy good music, food and share your vision for Vermont.
Amanda Janoo will be in Waitsfield, Tuesday, October 20th from 5 to 8pm with candidates Molly Gray and Mike Pieciak for a community conversation hosted by Bobbi Rood and Washington County Democrats at Afterthoughts, with a performance from Granville Daze!
Please bring a potluck dish to share!
Free and open to the public.
Please join us by signing up!
If you are unable to attend this event, and would like to learn more about Amanda and support the campaign, please go to www.janooforvt.com.
TWIN FIN- California Sober Tour
WAITSFIELD! Twin Fin is bringing their sun-soaked, feel-good sound to our stage on October 16th, for a night that’ll warm up your fall real quick.
Doors: 7PM
ALL AGES SHOW.
$20 tickets
Grab your crew, grab your tickets early, and get ready to ride the wave
Joined by The John Wood Band, a soulfoul six-piece from Wilmington, N.C.
Big D & the Kids Table
Big D and the Kids Table is a ska/punk/reggae/stroll band from Boston, MA. They'll be joined by Chicago ska/punk band, Devon Kay & The Solutions.
Live on stage at Afterthoughts in Waitsfield, Vermont.
Doors at 7PM
$30 adv.
BIG D & THE KIDS TABLE
Boston-based ska-punk and reggae-dub band
DEVON KAY & THE SOLUTIONS
Greatest Band in the World!
FOLDEROL
Saturday, October 10th Folderol brings their eclectic and electric dance sounds back to Afterthoughts.
Music at 8:30PM
Dan Ushkow- Drums / Samples
Max Libby - Keys /Synthesizers
Adam Shay - Bass
Andrew Dubenetsky- Guitar
Folderol is a certified high-energy rock band combined with a penchant for improvisation and the Untz.
With a blend of dance music, synth laden grooves and a few songs to catch your breath in between, they promise to keep you moving. With equal influences Electronica, Psychedelia and Jimmy Buffet, their sound acts as a through line for it all
Kota the Friend
KOTA THE FRIEND + LANDON WORDSWELL ARE COMING TO AFTERTHOUGHTS
October 7th is about to be a whole vibe.
Kota the Friend is bringing his smooth, laid-back NYC energy to the Mad River Valley, with Landon Wordswell joining for a night of hip-hop, good lyrics, good energy, and absolutely zero reason to stay home.
You already know what to do. Send this to the group chat.
Town Meeting with Troy Millette & the Fire Below
New England Americana rockers Town Meeting, and Vermont songsters Troy Millette & the Fire Below join forces for an intimate co-headlining acoustic tour.
Expect rich harmonies, stripped-down arrangements of songs new and old, and plenty of raw, honest, lyricism.
This tour offers a chance to hear both bands in close-quarters where their songs take center stage.
Football Sundays
On Sundays we FOOTBALL. Every Sunday until SuperBowl we’ll have $10 Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Beansy Burger, Tenders, Nachos, Chips & Dips, Wings.
$5 Drafts all day.
Come on down and watch the games on the Big Screen!
MOONDOGS
Moondogs is a Burlington, Vermont based psychedelic rock band, whose broadly influenced, eclectic style is both familiar and adventurous. Pulling from traditions and styles of funk, alternative rock, americana, and more, the band blends progressive and compelling songwriting with energetic musicianship and improvisation. Danceable grooves, memorable melodies, and deep musical chemistry are infused in the band's fresh take on rock music, which is both modern and nostalgic for eras gone by.
Will Sturcke on guitar and vocals, Jimmy Martucci on drums, Kai Paisciak on bass guitar, and Uli Schwendener on keyboards.
Football Sundays
On Sundays we FOOTBALL. Every Sunday until SuperBowl we’ll have $10 Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Beansy Burger, Tenders, Nachos, Chips & Dips, Wings.
$5 Drafts all day.
Come on down and watch the games on the Big Screen!
Jaded Ravins
Jaded Ravins members Kelly Ravin and Halle Jade began performing together in 2017 after Halle joined Kelly in the recording of his 5th highly acclaimed album "Engine".
Ravin, former lead singer and guitarist of Waylon Speed now performs his soulful americana, and country rock originals with Halle Jade. Halle's tasty harmonies and Kelly's powerful voice along with their engaging entertainment style make them a dynamic and expressive duo.
Kelly and Halle, who have been called a modern day Johnny and June, perform in large and small venues from New England to Nashville. Whether they're playing at home in backcountry bars, or in big city clubs, Jaded Ravins are always ready to pour their hearts out on stage.
NOT YOUR GRANDMA’s BINGO w/DJ T.RAD
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This month’s “Not Your Grandma’s Bingo” is a benefit for the Vermont Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and will go to support the Out of the Darkness Walk on October 4th in Montpelier. Join the walk or donate today. Grab your crew, grab a drink, and get ready to battle for bragging rights (and prizes).
DJ cRAIG mITCHELL
cRAIGmITCHELL, a.k.a. oLIVERtWISTED, a founding member of the chart-topping production team The Orange Factory, fathered and cultivated the dance music scene in Burlington, Vermont, where he went to Saint Michaels College after moving from Saginaw Michigan...near the birthplace of techno, Detroit, Michigan. With over 16 years behind the decks, cRAIG has served as a resident at New York City's legendary Tunnel and has played the country's most celebrated venues and club nights. He has rocked crowds alongside such tastemakers as Chris Fortier, Peter Rauhofer, Honey Dijon and Tom Stephan (Superchumbo), amongst others. One experience with cRAIG behind the tables and belting out one of his tracks LIVE, while dancing continuously in the booth and you'll understand why his shows are so well attended and recieved. Unlike many of today's DJ's who are so focused on their mix, that they forget about the VIBE, cRAIG is not just a DJ, he is a performer.
R.A. THE RUGGED MAN w/ & SPECIAL GUESTS $25
Hip-hop heavyweight R.A. the Rugged Man is coming to Afterthoughts on Thursday, September 3rd for a night of raw lyricism, legendary energy, and an unforgettable performance.
If you know, you know. This is your chance to catch one of the most respected MCs in the game LIVE in WAITSFIELD!!!
Tickets $25 (+applicable taxes & fees)
Doors 8pm
R.A. The Rugged Man is a multifaceted hip-hop artist known for his lyrical skill, storytelling, and diverse musical style. His career has transitioned from an industry outcast to an influential, independent hip-hop icon.
LINE DANCING WITH JENNA (EVERY 4TH SUNDAY)
Join Jenna from Good Time Line Dancing every 4th Sunday at Afterthoughts.
6-8pm. All levels welcome. Wether you're a seasoned boot scooter or want to get in on the fun, stop in and check it out.
$10
https://www.goodtimelinedancingvt.com/
GOOD TIME LINE DANCING w/ JENNA
Line Dancing- Every Fourth Sunday 6-8PM
Join Jenna, from Good Time Line Dancing, on the 4th Sunday’s of the month. Check the GTLD website for other fun events and dances they’ve taught at our space.
Mad River Distillers 15th Anniversary Bash featuring Chicago rock legends The Steepwater Band & Jaded Ravins
Mad River Distillers 15th Anniversary Bash featuring Chicago rock legends The Steepwater Band and their friends, Vermont's own Americana superstars Jaded Ravins! Prepare for a fantastic night of original music with drink specials, including the debut of MRD's new canned cocktails!
The Steepwater Band is a Chicago-based rock quartet renowned for its powerful, guitar-driven sound that draws deeply from the wells of classic rock, blues, and Americana. Since forming in the late 1990s, the band has built a devoted following through nine albums and a relentless touring schedule that has taken them to clubs, theaters, and festivals across the United States and Europe. Their music blends gritty riffs, melodic songwriting, and road-tested energy, earning praise for both its timeless feel and electrifying live performances. With influences ranging from The Rolling Stones and Muddy Waters to The Black Crowes and Gram Parsons, The Steepwater Band delivers a sound that is both familiar and distinctly their own.
Check out The Steepwater Band on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2TgTMg8jrIQjJ3uWkLw93J
Jaded Ravins is the Vermont-based Americana duo of Kelly Ravin and Halle Jade, who began performing together in 2017. Combining Kelly's soulful, powerful vocals with Halle's rich harmonies, the pair has drawn comparisons to a modern-day Johnny and June Carter Cash while crafting a sound that blends Americana, country rock, and roots music. Their songs have been praised for their heartfelt storytelling, gritty lyrics, and warm vocal chemistry, balancing driving country-rock energy with lush ambient washes. Performing everywhere from backcountry bars in New England to stages in Nashville, Jaded Ravins deliver passionate, engaging performances that connect deeply with the soul.
CREDIT: Jaded Ravins
Check out Jaded Ravins on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0KQkgvUP2dfAp18lQ2WQxO
This energetic night of original music will take place at Afterthoughts in Waitsfield, at the corner of Rt 17 and Rt 100 and is presented by Mad River Distillers, Valley Meade Dispensary, and The 1824 House.
THE MAMMALS
The Mammals make music for a world that is forgetting how to listen. In their harmonies is a reminder that truth is rarely loud, that connection can be a form of resistance, and that art—when rooted in sincerity—can help us navigate even the most unsettled times. They offer not answers but companionship, a kind of melodic refuge where the heart can regather its strength.
Their newest release, Touch Grass Vol. 1 & 2, continues this work—songs rooted in land, kinship, and the urgent need to reconnect with the world beneath our feet. The albums feel like field notes from the heart: intimate, grounded, and offered in a spirit of repair.
Come listen and experience The Mammals LIVE @ afterthoughts.
$25adv.
Tickets at sevendaystickets.com
BLU & EXILE
Blu & Exile are a legendary West Coast underground hip-hop duo consisting of rapper Blu and producer Exile, celebrated for their soul-soaked, sample-driven sound and introspective lyricism.
They are touring in 2026 to support their new album, Time Heals Everything. Support from VT hip hop trio Solo Lexicon.
Doors 8pm
Blu and Exile first met in the mid-2000s while Blu was serving as a hype man for various hip-hop groups including Slum Village, Platinum Pied Pipers and Exile's own group, Emanon. He was personally introduced to Exile through Emanon's other member, Aloe Blacc. In 2007, Blu & Exile released their debut album, Below The Heavens, which was described by XXL as "one of 2007's most celebrated hip-hop releases". They are currently touring in support of their 5th studio album, Time Heals Everything.