UVM's WRUV Radio Celebrates 70 Years

Vermont college town ranked among best in US for small-town charm and creative spirit.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:13pm

A blurred, dreamlike image of people gathered around a table, their faces and forms obscured in a warm, hazy glow, conveying a sense of intimate community and creative energy.The vibrant community spirit of Vermont's college towns shines through in the 70-year legacy of WRUV radio.Burlington Today

WRUV, the University of Vermont's campus radio station, is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year with a series of fundraising events, including a benefit bake at American Flatbread in Burlington on November 11. Vermont's college towns have been recognized as some of the best in the country, blending lakefront charm with a vibrant creative energy.

Why it matters

WRUV has been a fixture of the Burlington community for seven decades, providing a platform for student voices and local music. As one of Vermont's premier college towns, Burlington is known for its picturesque setting on Lake Champlain and thriving arts and culture scene, making it an attractive destination for students and residents alike.

The details

WRUV first went on the air in 1956 and has since become an integral part of the University of Vermont campus and the greater Burlington community. The station will mark its 70th year with a series of fundraising events, including the November 11 benefit bake at American Flatbread. Vermont's college towns, including Burlington, have been recognized by USA TODAY as some of the best in the country, blending small-town charm with a vibrant creative energy.

  • WRUV first went on the air in 1956.
  • WRUV is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2026.
  • A benefit bake for WRUV will be held on November 11, 2026.

The players

WRUV

The University of Vermont's campus radio station, which has been a fixture of the Burlington community for 70 years.

University of Vermont

The public research university located in Burlington, Vermont, which is home to WRUV radio.

American Flatbread

A local restaurant in Burlington that will be hosting a benefit bake for WRUV's 70th anniversary.

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What’s next

The WRUV 70th anniversary celebration will continue throughout the year, with the November 11 benefit bake at American Flatbread being one of the key events.

The takeaway

WRUV's 70-year history reflects the enduring appeal of Vermont's college towns, which offer students and residents a unique blend of small-town charm, lakefront beauty, and a thriving creative community.