Afterschool JR Chef Baking Series - Week 6: Sugar
The Essex Resort & Spa is excited to launch a hands-on Jr. Chef baking series designed just for middle school students (5th–8th grade; ages 10-14). Over six weeks, budding bakers will roll up their sleeves and dive into the building blocks of baking—butter, eggs, flour, and sugar.
Guided by a professional chef instructor in our Viking classroom kitchen, students will learn how to measure, mix, and master key techniques while creating a new baked treat each week. From planning and following recipes to experimenting with textures and flavors, this series is all about learning by doing.
Every class ends with students bringing home their own fresh-baked creations—plus the confidence and skills to recreate them in their own kitchens.
$80
11/18/25 - Week 6, Sugar.
Learn the basics of sugar and the chemistry behind caramelization. From granulated sugar make your own hard caramels (English toffee) and caramel sauce to take home.
#What to Expect
- **Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins so that we may take roll call.**
FOR HANDS ON CLASSES---
- **ATTIRE:**The Essex recommends that students wear closed-toe shoes to class and to dress appropriately for a cooking environment and have long hair tied back. Shorts, skirts, open-toed shoes, and flip flops are not allowed to be worn during any classes. The Essex will provide an apron to protect most clothing but, being a professional kitchen environment, spills do unfortunately happen.
- **KITCHEN SAFETY:** Participants assume and accept that they will be participating in cooking activities where there is a natural element of risk of injury with kitchen appliances, equipment, knives, allergic reactions, and other participants in the class. When you reserve your cooking class you acknowledge this level of risk to yourself while participating in the activities at The Essex.
Cancellation -
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Salt Cave Sound Bath at Purple Sage
Immerse yourself in soothing sound and healing energy during a Sound Bath in the Himalayan Salt Cave at Purple Sage in Essex, Vermont. Surrounded by the gentle glow of salt walls, you’ll experience the calming vibrations of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and other harmonic instruments—each designed to help the body release tension, quiet the mind, and restore natural balance.
Led by there skilled sound practitioner, this immersive session blends the ancient practice of sound healing with the natural benefits of halotherapy (salt therapy). As sound waves move through the body, they help calm the nervous system and encourage deep relaxation, while the salt-infused air supports respiratory health and detoxification. Together, these therapies create a holistic experience that nurtures both physical and emotional well-being.
Tickets are $60 per person
Oh, My Squash!
Roasted Delicata Salad with Chevre
Butternut Squash Risotto
Seared Scallops
Pumpkin Spice Cannoli
Sweet & Savory Crepes
From crepes with fresh berries to melty cheese and smoked ham
Taste of New England
Creamy Clam Chowdah, Lobster Pie, and Boston Cream Pie
Thanksgiving Pre-Fixe in Junction
Join us for an elevated Thanksgiving dinner at Junction, where seasonal and locally sourced ingredients shine. You’ll enjoy a thoughtfully prepared Pre-Fixe menu with options to suit every preference—including a vegan choice—paired with selections from our extensive wine list.
Our experienced team will guide you through each course, ensuring attentive service and a memorable holiday evening in Junction’s intimate, refined setting.
Secure your tickets to celebrate Thanksgiving with exceptional food, wine, and a dining experience designed to make the holiday truly special.
Your tickets serve as your reservation. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the event are subject to a $50 per person fee. Please note that only the Thanksgiving Pre-Fixe menu will be offered; the regular menu will not be available.
Thanksgiving Buffet in The Atrium
Back by popular demand, our Thanksgiving Buffet is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday. Skip the stress of cooking and enjoy traditional favorites, seasonal dishes, and plenty of options for all ages in a bright, welcoming space. Ideal for families, friends, and multi-generational gatherings, the buffet lets everyone relax and focus on spending time together while our team takes care of the rest.
Looking for a more intimate experience? Join us in Junction for our Pre-Fixe dinner. Want something casual? Stop by The Lazy Goat Tavern for our Thanksgiving Plate. Celebrating at home? Our To-Go option gives you fully prepared dishes to finish in your kitchen. Whatever your plans, The Essex makes Thanksgiving easy and enjoyable. Call us at 802-764-1413 to learn more or make arrangements.
The Thanksgiving Buffet takes place in The Atrium in our Main Building. Price includes all food, taxes, service charges, and gratuity. A cash bar will be available. Tickets are non-refundable.
Salt Cave Sound Bath at Purple Sage
Immerse yourself in soothing sound and healing energy during a Sound Bath in the Himalayan Salt Cave at Purple Sage in Essex, Vermont. Surrounded by the gentle glow of salt walls, you’ll experience the calming vibrations of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and other harmonic instruments—each designed to help the body release tension, quiet the mind, and restore natural balance.
Led by there skilled sound practitioner, this immersive session blends the ancient practice of sound healing with the natural benefits of halotherapy (salt therapy). As sound waves move through the body, they help calm the nervous system and encourage deep relaxation, while the salt-infused air supports respiratory health and detoxification. Together, these therapies create a holistic experience that nurtures both physical and emotional well-being.
Tickets are $60 and Call to reserve tickets
French Cuisine
Gougeres
Coq au Vin
Winter Greens
Spiced Poached Pears
Paint N Sip at Black Flannel | Sunrise
Join teaching artist Natasha Bogar from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Black Flannel Brewing in Essex for an evening of fun and creativity. The Barrell Room opens at 5:00 for dining before the painting starts at 6:00 pm. Paint your own acrylic on canvas of Stowe Mountain at sunrise. Natasha designed this scene. She will guide the class step by step, teaching color mixing, brush handling, and blending. All supplies are included, and all abilities are welcome. Ages 10 and under need adult accompaniment.
Cost is $45.00 per person
Salt Cave Breathwork at Purple Sage
Experience deep healing and relaxation with a guided breathwork session inside our Himalayan Salt Cave at Purple Sage.
Led by certified breathwork practitioner Rachel, this 60-minute wellness experience combines the power of conscious breathing with the therapeutic benefits of halotherapy (salt therapy). As you breathe deeply, the salt-enriched air supports respiratory wellness, boosts circulation, and promotes emotional release—helping you feel lighter, calmer, and more balanced from within.
Steak Night
Caesar Salad, Ricotta Gnocchi w/ Spinach & Gorgonzola, Grilled Steak, Lemon Ricotta Cake
Spa Open House!
Join us for an afternoon of relaxation, holiday zen, and connection at our Spa Open House. Explore the spa with guided tours, enjoy light bites, a signature spa mocktail, and take part in interactive make & take experiences throughout the space.
Create your own bath tea soak blend, whip up a DIY lip scrub, and craft a 2026 affirmation card paired with a mini crystal favor to take home. Meet our talented therapists for complimentary mini skincare consultations, chair massages, and paraffin hand rescue treatments, and be among the first to discover Kin Esthetics, a modern Korean skincare line now available at The Essex Spa — one of the only spas in Vermont to offer this exclusive collection.
Shop open house–only specials, including 10% off esthetician-recommended products, exclusive product bundles, and a complimentary gift with any new membership purchase. Beer, wine, and canned cocktails will also be available for purchase.
This event is free to attend, and no registration is required — just stop by, unwind, and get inspired for your self-care routine.
Cooking With Local Brews
Local Brews
Beer Steamed Mussels
Beer Braised Mussels
Chocolate Stout Cake
Salt Cave Breathwork at Purple Sage
Experience deep healing and relaxation with a guided breathwork session inside our Himalayan Salt Cave at Purple Sage.
Led by certified breathwork practitioner Rachel, this 60-minute wellness experience combines the power of conscious breathing with the therapeutic benefits of halotherapy (salt therapy). As you breathe deeply, the salt-enriched air supports respiratory wellness, boosts circulation, and promotes emotional release—helping you feel lighter, calmer, and more balanced from within
Tickets are $60 per person
Crab Cakes!
Lump Crab Cakes
Shrimp & Grits
Cheddar Biscuits
Bananas Foster
Champlain Trio Holiday Concert
Celebrate the season with a heartwarming evening of holiday music! Relive cherished memories with seasonal classics such as Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker suite, selections from Handel’s Messiah, toe-tapping jazzy arrangements and much more - all with beautiful winter scene projections on the big screen! We promise that this will be a night that audiences of all ages will remember, so bring your friends and family and get your tickets today. Doors open at 4pm
Tickets are $29.50 for adults and $13.60 for children under 12
Mexican Cuisine
Beef Empanadas
Fish Tacos with Spicy Slaw
Elote
Warm Churros with Chocolate Ganache
Salt Cave Breathwork at Purple Sage
Experience deep healing and relaxation with a guided breathwork session inside our Himalayan Salt Cave at Purple Sage.
Led by certified breathwork practitioner Rachel, this 60-minute wellness experience combines the power of conscious breathing with the therapeutic benefits of halotherapy (salt therapy). As you breathe deeply, the salt-enriched air supports respiratory wellness, boosts circulation, and promotes emotional release—helping you feel lighter, calmer, and more balanced from within.
Limited spaces available—reserve your spot today! Cost is $60 per person
Cioppino
Panzanella Salad, Cioppino w/ Creamy Polenta, Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake
French Cuisine
Sole Meuniere
Ratatouille
French Apple Cake

