NEMBA Fest

Camping at the venue is a great way to ensure that you are fully immersed in this epic MTB experience. There are two different campsites available as part of NEMBAfest, one for tents and one for RV camping. Both are pretty basic, but there is clean potable drinking water available, as well as bathrooms and showers. Camping usually opens on the Friday prior to the event, with no early camping available.

The surroundings in East Burke, Vermont, offer a breathtaking view. Beautiful forests and majestic mountains provide the perfect location to get acquainted with the great outdoors. There are several campsites in the local area but these can get booked up quite quickly. Darling State Park and Victory State Forest do have limited options for primitive camping within 15 and 35 minutes respectively and may both best be suited for campervans and small rigs.

Once you park your car, you are not likely to require it again during the festival. Of course, most of the getting around at NEMBAfest predominantly by bike, with all trails looping back to the Kingdom Trail Welcome Center. The stage, expos, demos, vendors, and camping are within walking distance. A free shuttle bus is usually on hand to take you to or collect you from East Burke, and the bus even has bike racks for extra convenience.

When you are enjoying any sport, clothing should be lightweight and comfortable. Think breathable and moisture-wicking riding gear that will enhance your performance rather than restrict it. The weather is usually sunny, but it can get cooler in the evenings. However, the weather can quickly in the summer in Vermont, and you may wish to pack some rain gear just in case.

If you are camping at NEMBAfest, you will want to bring your usual camping supplies, including gear for your camper, sleeping bags, and cooking supplies if you plan to cook for yourself. With regard to cycling gear, there is the possibility to rent on-site if you do not wish to take your bike. Having well-cared for gear is critical for performance, so there is even a self-serve Bike Wash and Maintenance station so you can keep your ride looking its best, even after muddy trails.

Think safety first and ensure that you pack appropriate safety gear. A helmet is essential, but also having your own portable first aid kit may come in handy when you are out on the trails. Ensure that you pick the right group ride to suit your abilities and if you are concerned about safety on the trails when it is busy, it is advised to ride in the morning to avoid the rush.

Although there are many food options available at NEMBAfest, you may wish to cook for yourself. There is nothing quite like enjoying food in the outdoors, and it is also a great way to save your cash for some new cycling gear. There are no open fires or grills allowed at the campsite, but you can take a generator if desired. Be sure to check your camper's tanks so that they are ready for use once you arrive.

There are lots of local restaurants to choose from in the surrounding area of East Burke, with a shuttle bus available to take you into and out of town regularly throughout the weekend. Whether you would prefer Italian, American, or anything else, there is something for everyone. However, restaurants can get super busy, so if you are looking to enjoy a meal outside of the venue, you may wish to reserve a table or arrive before you get too hungry.

Over one hundred vendors are on-site to provide a wide array of delicious food that is guaranteed to keep your energy levels up for the trails. Whether you are looking for something light and nutritious or typical festival fare, there is a vendor to suit your hunger. NEMBAfest is also a great place to treat yourself to some new cycling gear, with top cycling vendors also in attendance.