Susie Floros and Kelly Clark chilling in the barn
Words: Sara Owen
Photos: Chris Owen
Whether it’s starting initiatives like the Chill Foundation or making the U.S. Open (the longest running event in the history of the sport) happen year after year, Jake Burton Carpenter and his wife Donna have done a lot for snowboarding. Plus, their far-reaching generosity has been extended to more than just a handful of pros; it finds its way to more people than is worth quantifying.
Since the 80s, Jake and Donna have invited Burton employees, retailers, sales reps, team riders, family, friends and neighbors to their home in Stowe, VT for a pre-season party known as the Fall Bash.
Skating through the underground tunnel that connects Jake's main house to his barn.
Not to shabby if you ask us.
This past weekend Jake and Donna opened their home to over a thousand people including the latest Burton team addition, John Jackson and riders like Kevin Pearce, Danny Davis, Jack Mitrani and Kelly Clark. The Bash started mid-day and went off much like a county fair. There were all types of activities including skateboard races through the underground tunnel, pony rides and face painting for the kids.
Employees, friends and family hanging out under the tent. Despite the rain coming down, attendees still managed to get their party on.
Despite the pouring rain, there wasn’t an unoccupied space in the house, The Barn (widely known as the spot the brand was founded), or the massive outdoor tent by the time night fell. Plates and cups were filled with delicious food and drink including spiked Vermont Apple Cider. The Itals and Z-Trip rocked in the garage, and every room was the site of a new kind of fun — good conversation, indoor soccer or a massive chocolate fountain to name a few.
Jack Mitrani made an appearence. We say two thumbs up!
As expected, the kids fell asleep in their parents’ arms as the grownups partied until the break of dawn. A few short hours later many a muddy-shoed, Burton-carry-on-totting passenger rolled through Vermont’s Burlington International Airport as another successfull Fall Bash was in the books.
Thanks Jake and Donna for your unwavering generosity and commitment to having a damn good time.
Jake and Donna's house – The scene of the crime…
