A vent assembly that can be concealed when in a closed configuration is provided in one embodiment, the vent assembly comprises a base member and a guide member secured to a mounting surface of a duct or other passageway. A flexible rod is fixedly attached to the base member and slideably disposed within a channel defined by the guide member. A panel is disposed on or around the flexible rod and between the base and guide members. An actuator is able to deform the rod such that the panel moves away from the terminal opening of the duct, thereby opening the vent. A fluid distribution system incorporating vent assemblies in accordance with the present invention is also provided.