"With realization of one's
own potential and
confidence in one's ability,
one can build a better world"

~The 14th Dalai Lama

Our History

Some of the first Tibetans to come to the United States settled in Burlington in 1992. A few of them participated in local events, sharing traditional folk dances with the community. In 1993, Tibetans living in Vermont established the Tibetan Association of Vermont (TAV). By 1997, when the last of the Tibetan exiles immigrated here under the terms of Tibetan Resettlement Act, more than 50 Tibetans made their home in Burlington area.

Since 1998, our association has educated the new generation of Tibetan-Americans and others here in Vermont about Tibet's history, religion, and culture through language and folk dance. For events such as the Essex International Festival, members of the local Tibetan community prepare a sampling of Tibetan folk songs and dances which would traditionally be performed at festivals and celebrations.

The Tibetan Association organized the first Tibet Festival in 2002 as our chance to share with neighbors and friends here in Vermont a little of our rich, ancient culture. The festival consists of a variety of songs and dances, Tibetan foods, and crafts, and it has become a tradition here in Vermont. It is now held every year.

In addition to our own festival, our group has performed at many venues, including Middlebury college, the Champlain Valley festival at Kingsland State Park, Montpelier, the Essex International Festival, and New York Children's Camp.