On November Or In November, Either Way, It’s Stick Season

On November or In November, Vermont’s Stick Season Tells Its Own Story

November always sparks a little grammar curiosity; are we doing something on November or in November? But here in Vermont, this time of year means something a little more poetic. We call it stick season: when the leaves are gone, snow flurries tease the air, and vintage decor quietly settles in between fall and winter.

What Is Stick Season in Vermont?

Stick season is that quiet, in-between time in Vermont when the trees are bare, the skies are moody, and the snow hasn’t quite settled in. It comes after the fiery peak foliage and before the full sparkle of winter, offering a cozy, pared-back view of the landscape. While it may not be postcard-pretty, there’s a rustic beauty in the stillness, and it’s the perfect time to curl up indoors with thrifted finds and vintage treasures that reflect the peaceful shift.

Why “On November” or “In November” Is So Confusing (and So Clicked!)

Here’s a little grammar twist that keeps showing up in search: Do you say on November or in November? Technically, “in November” is correct when referring to something happening during the month, like “We decorate in November.”

“On November” is typically followed by a date, like “on November 5th.” But the debate is real, and Google users are definitely curious! So while we’re cozying up to Vermont’s stick season, we’re also having a little fun with a grammar moment that’s gone unexpectedly viral.

November in Vermont: When Stick Season Quietly Takes Over

Stick season in Vermont marks the subtle shift between vibrant fall foliage and the hush of early winter, what we affectionately call stick season. The trees are bare, the pumpkins are frosted, and moody skies settle in over the mountains.

It’s a time of quiet beauty, where misty mornings, first snowfalls, and fading mums capture the charm of New England’s most overlooked season. Whether it’s snow-covered leaves or that eerie golden light at dusk, stick season in Vermont is full of photogenic moments that tell a story all their own.

Porches, Pumpkins, and First Snow: Vermont’s Outdoor Charm in November

There’s something magical about this in-between season in Vermont. One day it’s warm enough for a cozy fire pit gathering with neighbors; the next, snow blankets the pumpkins and mums. These quiet outdoor moments capture the spirit of stick season, where green grass meets frost, coffee steam mingles with morning fog, and vintage fall porch decor stands tall against the chill. This photo gallery tells the story of stick season in real time, raw, beautiful, and full of that New England charm I love sharing.

A Fall Scarecrow Meets Her First Vermont Snowfall

One of the funny things about stick season in Vermont is how fall and winter seem to overlap. The trees are mostly bare, fallen leaves still cover the ground, and then one morning you wake up to a fresh layer of snow. It’s not quite the winter wonderland of January, but it’s a pretty special sight all its own.

This November, my DIY fall scarecrow, Moxie Mae, got to experience it firsthand! She’s been standing in our flower garden all autumn, dressed in thrifted blues, and I hadn’t quite gotten around to putting her away. When the first snow arrived, there she was, arms stretched wide, surrounded by snow-covered gardens with the mountains in the distance.

Now I’m wondering whether she should stay for winter! I’ve even dreamed up a couple of thrifted winter outfits for her, and readers are helping me decide whether she should become a vintage skier, a plaid-clad snowshoer, or head into storage until next fall.

Come meet Moxie Mae, see her possible winter makeovers, and cast your vote!

How We Spend Stick Season in Vermont

Stick season may be quieter, but there’s still plenty to savor here in Vermont. From scenic drives and cozy firepit gatherings to visiting our favorite local gems like The Vermont Country Store or trying something new at a local cooking school, it’s a time for slower living and sweet traditions. Want more Vermont inspiration? Here are a few of our favorite things to do during this in-between season:

Cozy Indoors in Vermont: Vintage Winter Decor and Ski Lodge Style Begins

While the trees outside go bare and the landscape fades to neutrals, indoors is where the color comes alive. During stick season in Vermont, I love to cozy up our spaces with vibrant vintage decor, think antique McCoy pottery, cheerful quilts, colorful mums rescued from the nursery bin, and blue-and-white accents that brighten every corner. It’s all about layering textures, mixing in those rich autumn hues, and styling meaningful pieces that make the transition into winter feel warm and personal. From sheepskins to sweater pillows, this season is made for decorating slowly, intentionally, and with vintage charm.

Looking for more cozy inspiration as stick season sets in?
Explore my Vintage Ski Lodge Decor Series for rustic winter styling ideas that blend perfectly with the season.

Or start planning ahead with these Holiday Decorating Ideas filled with vintage charm and seasonal warmth.

In November or on November, Vermont slows down, but the vintage charm never does.
Stick season may feel quiet, but it’s a time to savor cozy interiors, thrifted treasures, and the in-between beauty that makes this fifth season so special. Whether you’re curling up with a vintage quilt or styling your own fall decor vignettes, I hope this post inspires you to embrace the slower pace with creativity and warmth.

I’d love to know:
How do you decorate during this in-between season?
Do you lean into cozy vintage vignettes, colorful florals, or maybe a mix of both?

Drop a comment below, share your favorite fall styling moments, and don’t forget to join my newsletter so you’ll never miss the next New England-inspired vintage idea as we roll into the holidays.

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