30th Annual Northeastern Atlatl Championship Event at Chimney Point

For Immediate Release

September 11, 2025

30th Annual Northeastern Atlatl Championship Event at Chimney Point

Addison, Vt. - The Chimney Point State Historic Site in Addison, Vermont, is hosting the annual Northeastern Open Atlatl Championship, with the main event on Saturday, September 20, 2025. This is the 30th annual event and is always a highlight of Vermont's Archaeology Month. Additional workshops and competitions will also take place throughout the weekend.

The atlatl is an ancient spear-throwing tool historically used around the world for hunting and shooting. On Saturday, the Chimney Point field, on the shore of Lake Champlain, is the scene for contestants of all ages to test their prowess with the tool. Contestants will test their aim for best in accuracy and distance by throwing at a variety of targets.

Contestants are strongly urged to pre-register by calling 802-759-2412 and leaving a message. Event attendees are welcome to bring a picnic lunch and portable chair while you watch and cheer on the contestants.

Registration for the Saturday competition starts at 10:30 a.m. First up is the "International Standard Accuracy Competition," with a standard World Atlatl Association bullseye target. This is followed by the accuracy test, with painted animal targets, and the distance event. The contest ends with a "Grand Champion" shootout. Contestants usually range from interested novices to some of the best in the country. Competitors who are pre-registered pay $12 and the day-of registration is $14. The cost for spectating adults is $6 and free for those under 15. Also, on Saturday, there will be demonstrations of flint-knapping (making stone tools), modern-day basket making, and atlatl making.

On Friday, September 19, from noon to 5:00 p.m., is the atlatl workshop taught by Thunderbird Atlatl. Attendees make an atlatl, feather or fletch three darts, and receive coaching advice and much more. The fee is $70 and includes all materials. Pre-registration is required by calling 802-759-2412.

A smaller, second International Standards competition, will take place on Sunday, September 21, starting at 10:00 a.m. The competitor's fee is the same as for Saturday.

The Chimney Point State Historic Site presents the history of the region's three earliest cultures: Native American, French Colonial, and early American. The site was used by Native Americans for thousands of years, was the location of the 1731 French fort, and the museum is in the c.1785 tavern building. It is located at 8149 VT Route 17W in Addison at the foot of the Lake Champlain Bridge. The site is open 10:00 to 5:00, Wednesdays through Sundays, with the last day of the season being Monday, October 13, Indigenous Peoples Day.

For more information about the Vermont State-Owned Historic Sites, visit www.historicsites.vermont.gov .