New England Town Meetings are local gatherings where residents of a town come together to discuss and make decisions on community issues. These meetings typically occur annually or semi-annually and allow citizens to vote on budgets, local laws, and other important matters. This form of direct democracy encourages participation and transparency in local governance. During a Town Meeting, participants can voice their opinions, propose changes, and engage in discussions about the future of their community. This tradition dates back to the colonial period and is a hallmark of civic engagement in states like Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire.