As the calendar approaches the official start of summer, there’s no better time to give you a run down of the major happenings around the state. This is after all the Summer Guide.
We searched high and low to find the events we thought you might enjoy checking out.
So if you have any free time that isn’t taken up by luxurious vacations, trips to the beach house and generally just being awesome, we thought this might help you out.
June 10
Pollyanna Glad Day
Littleton-born author Eleanor H. Porter created the world-famous cheerful character Pollyanna, and bestseller, in 1913.
The town unveiled the Pollyanna sculpture in 2002 and it has attracted admirers world-wide.
Help celebrate the 15th anniversary of the sculpture with a free event in downtown Littleton.
Time: 10 a.m. Cost: Free. Info: golittleton.com/ pollyanna.phpemail.
Pats Peak Mountain Bike Festival
The 16th annual Pats Peak Mountain Bike Festival is a two-day endurance event, that includes 24-, 12- and 6-hour race options, in both cross-country and downhill – with many categories within those lengths.
Admission for spectators is free, but there are fees for riders.
Time: Begins at noon on Saturday. Cost: Free for spectators. Riders fees vary. Info: patspeak.com.
Laconia Motorcycle Week
The 94-year-old rally starts its countdown to 100 years this summer, and the schedule includes as much tasty food, rockin’ live tunes (from Josh Logan and MB Padfield, among others) and interesting historical motorcycle programming as you can handle.
The festivities kick off June 10 and run all the way through June 18.
Time: Rally headquarters open at 10 a.m. June 10. Cost: Varies. Info: laconiamcweek.com.
June 11
Kids Con New England 2017
The Radisson Hotel in Nashua plays host to Kids Con New England, the first and only comic book convention just for kids in New England.
The event promotes art education and literacy through comics, with over 60 kid-focused family friendly artists and creators, fun activities, face painters, balloonists, Jedi training, a superheroes meet and greet, games, costume contests, and coloring and activity tables. You can even learn cartooning and take part in a kids sketch-off.
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: $10-12, kids under 5 are free, and includes most activities and workshops. Info: kidsconne.com.
June 15
Best of New Hampshire Party
This is your chance to sample food and drink from all over the state in one place – Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, home of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.
Attendees can look forward to tasting food and drink from more than 65 booths (both Readers’ Poll winners and Editor’s Picks) while enjoying a summer evening outside at the ballpark listening to local music and enjoying roving entertainment. Plus, the night is capped off with a spectacular fireworks display.
And don’t forget about the grand prize! One lucky attendee will win a one-week, all-inclusive vacation for four to Rockywold-Deephaven Camps on Squam Lake in Holderness.
Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Cost: $65 per person; $55 for 6-plus people; $19 for kids 4-10. Info: nhmagazine.com/ Best-of-NH.
Sand Sculpting Competition
The fun starts June 15, after 250 tons of imported sand has been dumped on Hampton Beach, it will be used by 10 world master sculptures to create astonishing works of art out of shapeless heaps of sand.
When completed they are sprayed with windscreen (a solution of school glue and water) to protect them from the elements and remain standing for viewing for weeks creating a free museum of master pieces on the beach. They will be lighted for viewing until July 5. The awards ceremony will take place on the Seashell stage Saturday, June 18 at 8 p.m. followed by a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.
Time: All day. Cost: Free for spectators. Info: hamptonbeach.org/events/sand-sculpture-event.
June 16
Rock’n Ribfest
Rock’n Ribfest is an annual celebration of barbecued ribs and family-friendly entertainment that was established by the Rotary Club of Nashua West as a fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. The 15th annual celebration will be held June 16-18 at the Anheuser-Busch brewery in Merrimack.
Enjoy the best barbecue in New Hampshire with music and entertainment.
Time: June 16, 4 to 11 p.m., June 17, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., June 18, 11a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $10; children under 8 are free. Info: ribfestnh.com.
June 17
Father’s Day Weekend Classic Car Show
Join Churchill’s Garden Center in Exeter with that special father in your life who likes cars.
It will be a show and shine event with the allowance of cars to come and go throughout the day, giving people the flexibility to stay as long as they would like. All cars are eligible and each participant will receive a $10 coupon.
There will also be a raffle for charity, a cookout with a charity donation bowl at the serving site and, of course, ice cream.
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: By donation. Info: churchillsgardens.com/ events/741.
June 18
Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival
Food Truck Festivals of America is heading to New Hampshire for its Seacoast Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival in Somersworth.
Featuring some of New England’s most popular food trucks, dishing out fan favorites and dozens of regional and national craft breweries, this will be the ultimate food truck experience to New Hampshire.
Enjoy all the delicious eats with the price of admission ($5 online, $10 the day of).
Beer tickets will be sold onsite for $6 per beer. There will also be a four-pack of beer for $20 or individuals can purchase a Beer Lovers ticket online for $18.50 (includes admission to the festival and three beers).
There are VIP tickets available as well.
Time: Noon to 6 p.m. Cost: Varies. Children under 12 are free. Food and drink will be available for purchase separately. Info: foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com.
June 21
Bread & Puppet Theater
World renowned Bread & Puppet Theater will be performing on Star Island.
The Bread and Puppet production on Star Island, the “Overtakelessness Circus,” is inspired by a poem of Emily Dickenson, “The Overtakelessness of Those.” The performance showcases a group of stone-age technology puppeteers, brass players and percussionists who highlight the prominent forward-moving passions and politics of our capitalist culture. Expected in attendance will be corporate overlords, tigers and clouds, Zeus, Kasper, a few frogs and Emily Dickinson. After the performance, the audience is welcome to stay and check out all the masks and puppets.
Time: Boat departs Portsmouth at 1 p.m. Departs Star Island at 5 p.m. Cost: $50 per person (includes ferry transportation). Info: starisland.org/ programs/events.
Simply Shaker Celebration
Join fellow Canterbury Shaker Village members and Village supporters for a special tour, an auction and festive evening to benefit Canterbury Shaker Village. Complimentary wine and beer throughout the evening.
Photographer Richard Moore’s “twice-seen” images of the Village and iconic New England landscapes will be in display.
A family-style Shaker inspired dinner will be served.
Time: 5 p.m. Cost: $100 per person. Info: shakers.org/ simply-shaker-dinner.
June 22
Market Days
The 43rd annual Market Days Festival in downtown Concord is three fun-filled days in the heart of the Capital city.
Market Days regularly attracts ten of thousands from throughout New Hampshire and New England.
There’s live music and nonstop cost-free fun for the entire family, shopping and food.
Add in tons of live music, the Multicultural Festival and the Capital City Classic 10K, a strong man competition and much more, it’s no wonder people flock to Concord.
Time: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Cost: Free admission. Info: intownconcord.org/ index.php/event/2017-market-days-festival.
June 23
New England Brewfest
Beer lovers, rejoice! The self-proclaimed ultimate craft beer weekend returns to Loon Mountain and beyond this year for three days of nonstop brews. Saturday’s On Tap anchors the festival, with tastings of 100-plus beers with live music and vendors. Don’t miss the fete’s beer-pairing dinners, seminars or Hop Talks. Times and locations around Lincoln/Woodstock vary.
Time: Vary. Cost: $40. Info: nebrewfest.com.
June 24
Gilsum Rock Swap and Mineral Show
The 52nd annual Gilsum Rock Swap & Mineral Show is a two-day event being held from June 24-25 at the Gilsum Elementary School and Community Center in Gilsum.
With more than 65 dealers and swappers, this event showcases products like swap beryl, quartz crystals, semi precious stones, and handcrafted jewelry. Time: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 24, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 25. Cost: Free. Info: gilsum.org/rockswap.
Art in Bloom
The Mountain Garden Club’s annual gift to Mount Washington Valley is this walking tour of the quaint village of Jackson, where pieces of art, and accompanying floral interpretations, are located at a variety of Jackson businesses. Nearly 50 exhibits will be displayed.
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free. Info: jacksonnh.com/event/463/Art-In-Bloom.
Tractor Show & Swap Meet
Held at the Presby Transportation Museum in Whitefield, enjoy a day filled with free ice cream, hay rides, antique tractor exhibit and classic car cruise-in, airplane rides available , R/C model airplanes, food and craft vendors on site. large scale model railroad and pedal tractors.
Hangar Dance featuring “Not Your Mother Band” from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. with a ticket price of $18.
Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Info: presbytransportationmuseum.com/upcoming-events.
July 1
Old Home Day
The Franconia Notch Regional Chamber is excited to announce a grand parade celebrating the history and memory of the Old Man of the Mountain.
Floats by businesses (large and small), organizations, youngsters, bikes, babies – all are welcome to join. Trophies will be awarded in several categories.
5K fun run race, artisan’s show, book sale, Franconia firemen’s barbecue, Lafayette Lion’s great duck sweepstakes race on the Gale River, concert at the gazebo, and fireworks at Dow Park.
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.. Cost: Free admission. Info: franconianotch.org/ oldhomeday.
Independence Celebration
The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce invites you to the 2017 Independence Day Big Bang Fireworks Celebration.
Join us by car or foot to view the 2017 fireworks extravaganza on the fields of ConVal Regional High School.
The party starts with a live DJ at 6 p.m. Then after dusk, witness an incredible sight as thousands of spectacular fireworks light up the sky shining.
Time: 6 p.m. Cost: $5 per person over 5 years of age, $20 per immediate family, $35 for VIP tickets & parking package. Info: PeterboroughChamber.com
Open Barn and Celebration
Join Poore Family Homestead Historic Museum for its 23rd annual celebration . Free birthday cake and lemonade will be served at the museum.
There will be live music, period dressed re-enactors will be on hand again this year demonstrating weaving, spinning, soap making, tanning hides and more. Audience participation is encouraged.
Time:11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Admission is a donation of $10 per adult; Accompanied children under 12 are free. Info: poorefarmevents.blogspot.com.
July 2
Independence Day Celebration
Jackson Village & the surrounding communities come together to celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display.
The fireworks will be going off from Jackson Village Park and will be easily viewable throughout Jackson Village but we do recommend that you come early to get a good spot. There will be ice cream, popcorn, glow necklaces, balloons and other fun stuff available.
Time: 9 p.m. Cost: Free. Info: jacksonnh.com
Independence Family Carnival/Beach Movie Night
Waterville Valley hosts a day full of events with a carnival, outdoor movie and live music.
There’s a 100-foot obstacle course, face painting, T-shirt tie-dying, boat rentals and a cash BBQ.
Time: Noon to 10 p.m. Cost: Varies. Info: waterville.com/calendar/ summer-carnival-movie-night
Chili, Chowder, Soup & Dessert Cook-Off
The 10th annual Gorham Fire & EMS Association Chili, Chowder & Soup Cook-Off and Dessert Competition will let you sample all you can eat from the event’s many delicious offerings and vote for your favorite.
Time: 5 p.m. Cost: $6. Info: gorham60f35@gmail.com
July 3
Fireworks
Come to the annual Ashland Fourth of July fireworks display. There will be vendors, music and entertainment. The rain date will be July 5.
There will also be a parade held July 4 at 10 a.m.
Time: 5 p.m. Cost: Free. Info: aloud@roadrunner.com
July 4
An American Celebration at Strawbery Banke
An old-fashioned family Fourth of July at Strawbery Banke outdoor history museum that starts with a U.S. Naturalization Ceremony and offers old fashioned field day family games and a decorated bicycle parade. Costumed role-players, historic house tours, 300-plus years of American history on the 10-acre museum site. Reading of the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence.
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Free. Info: strawberybanke.org/events/july4.cfm.
4th of July Parade and Fireworks
Waterville Valley will host a free Independence Day celebration with a morning parade, live music beginning at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks after dark at 9:30 p.m.
Time: Begins at 11 a.m. Cost: Free. Info: waterville.com/calendar/4th-of-july.
Fireworks Party Cruise
Lake Winnipessaukee is an exciting place for the Fourth of July. Small boats light up the lake while they wait for the fireworks. Join the M/S Mount Washington for a cruise with dinner and dancing while we scout for fireworks around the lake. Time: Boat boards at 6:15 p.m. Cruise begins at 7 p.m. Cost: $57 per person. Info: cruisenh.com/Fireworks PartyCruise.php
July 6
Hillsboro Balloon Fest & Fair
From live music and a parade to a fairway full of carnival rides, this legendary festival at Grimes Field is packed with activities.
These majestic hot air vehicles take off at 6 p.m. the first two days, and at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. over the weekend. For a free spectacle, stick around till dusk on Friday night.
The festival runs from July 6-9.
Time: Festival begins at 6 p.m. July 6. Cost: Admission is free. Parking is $10. Info: balloonfestival.org.
July 7
Splash & Wag
Osborne’s Agway in Concord will be hosting a DockDogs event, July 7-9, with both beginners and old hat competitors of dock diving, featuring dogs jumping from a platform into a large pool competing for speed, distance and height. You can bring your own dogs and register them to compete – no experience necessary. You can also just come to watch the remarkable spectacle of practiced competitors. As always, friendly leashed pups are both welcome and encouraged to come along.
There will be lots of other things to enjoy as well. Other events and competitions, services and fun canine sights will be available for all individual’s and their dog’s enjoyment. There will be disc dog demonstrations, an agility course, dog costume contests and a dog-owner look-a-like contest.
Time: Competition begins 9 a.m. July 7. Cost: Entrants fees vary. Info: dockdogs.com/eventscal/osbornes-agway-splash-and-wag.
July 8
A Brew with a View
Settle in under the large venue tent at Steele Hill Resorts in Sanbornton for “A Brew with a View,” the Lakes Region’s favorite brewfest. Featuring 30-plus New England brewers and other specialty beers and spirits, the third annual Brew with a View is the perfect way to enjoy a weekend with friends.
Specialty tastings will be offered from 4 to 5 p.m. with VIP tickets, and general admission runs from 5 to 7 p.m. with a free concert to close out the festivities.
Time: 4 to 8 p.m. Cost: $40-50. Info: abrewwithaview.com.
July 9
Wright Museum Family Day
If you have been to it before, you know that this is one of the Wright Museum’s most popular events for both young and old alike.
Family Day offers plenty of fun activities for everyone; Ride around Wolfeboro in a World War II era vehicle; talk with WWII era re-enactors; tour the museum; face painting; caricatures; balloon artist; magic show; live animal show; live music; and much more.
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Adults $12; children 5-17, $10; Museum members $9. Info: wrightmuseum.org/family-day.html.
Jewish Food Festival
This popular food fest at Temple B’Nai Israel in Laconia marks its 20th anniversary this year and, as always, it promises some tasty traditional eats.
Visit for your fill of blintzes, knishes and matzo ball soup.
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: Varies. Info: tbinh.org
July 11
Eastern LeagueAll-Star Classic
One of Minor League Baseball’s biggest games comes to Manchester in this special showcase.
In addition to hosting the Eastern League’s all-star game for the third time in 10 years, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats will stage a whole range of activities for fans and families in the days surrounding the main event.
Time: Festivities begin at 5 p.m. July 11. Cost: Varies. Info: nhfishercats.com.
July 15
American Independence Fest
More than 4,000 people are expected to visit Exeter to take in the sights and sounds of the 27th American Independence Festival. featuring historic battle re-enactments, colonial demonstrations, children’s activities, cannon firings, crafts, music, food and more. The festival is one of the largest family-friendly events in New Hampshire.
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $10. Info: independencemuseum.org/american-independence-festival.
Vintage Boat & Car Auction
Boats and boating memorabilia and maritime antiques will be auctioned at the N.H. Boat Museum. New this year will be a selection of vintage cars for sale. Preview items on July 14, noon to 5 p.m. and July 15, 8 to 10 a.m. Donations and consignments welcome with a deadline of July 8 for consideration with no exceptions.
Time: Auction begins 10 a.m. Cost: Free admission. Info: nhbm.org/vintage-boat-auction.
Rochester Main Street Riverfest
Rochester Main Street volunteers will host their fifth annual Rochester Main Street RiverFest in the North Main Street/Cocheco Riverwalk area in downtown Rochester.
Guests are asked to bring a lawn chair and enjoy some blues experience, the rich history and soul connections of blues and jazz power. In addition there will several other acts throughout the day, face painting, arts, crafts, and a bounce house. Local restaurants will vie for a plaque for the people’s choice award with a $100 cash prize. The restaurants will be offering their BBQ specials for sale. Those attending may purchase a $5 badge that entitles a small portion sampling and entitling them to vote for the People’s Choice Award. Vendors, crafts, food and games will line the upper end of North Main Street.
Time: 2 to 7 p.m. Cost: Admission by donation. Info: rochestermainstreet.org.
July 16
New Hampshire 301
If you haven’t caught a NASCAR race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, here’s your beset chance in 2017.
This event, a crucial marker on the road to the league championship, attracts some of the biggest names in driving. The speedway’s new North East Motor Sports Museum opens this summer too, so be sure to pay it a visit while you’re perusing the racetrack grounds.
Time: 3 p.m. Cost: Prices vary. Info: nhms.com.
July 20
Manchester Trolley Nights
Manchester Trolley Nights is a tradition that highlights arts and culture in the community. A true team effort, the trolley nights are organized each year to celebrate the amazing diversity of artistic expression and dynamic cultural experiences that the city of Manchester has to offer. Two trolleys will circulate to many of Manchester’s art studios, galleries and cultural attractions. Guests can hop on or off at any designated stop. Most venues are within walking distance of each other, and guests are welcome to drive, bike or walk the route. Venues have special events and promotions planned specifically for the evening.
Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free. Info: opendoorsmanchester.com.
Stratham Fair
Fair season gets underway in July, and the season-opening honors go to Stratham, July 20-23.
For the classic fair experience, grab some fried food, stroll the fairway and settle in for a concert or a tractor pull — but don’t overlook the 4-H festivities. Dog shows are great for little animal lovers, rowdy swine shows perfect for rambunctious boys and the buildings housing “non-walking” projects such as photography and sewing are tailor-made for moms and dads who need a break from funnel cake fumes and July sun.
Time: July 20, 3 to 10 p.m., and July 21-23, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cost: $5-8. Info: strathamfair.com.
July 21
New England Forest Rally
The New England Forest Rally is an annual two-day stage rally that takes place on the back roads and logging tracks of Western Maine and Northern New Hampshire.
The New England Forest Rally course is made up of dirt and gravel logging roads. Spectators can enjoy special stages at Sunday River Ski Area and other stages.
Time: Begins 9:30 a.m. July 21. Cost: Spectators free. Info: newenglandforestrally.com.
July 22
N.H. BrewersFestival
With nearly 40 breweries showcasing their craft brews, this will certainly be one fun filled festival you won’t want to miss!
This “For the Brewers, By the Brewers” festival is a one-of-a-kind event, featuring the largest single collection of New Hampshire’s breweries anywhere in the state this year at Kiwanis Riverfront Park in Concord. This is strictly a 21-plus event.
All tickets include unlimited beer samples from a vast selection of N.H. craft breweries, a souvenir taster glass, entertainment and more. Food will be available for purchase from a variety of food vendors.
Designated driver tickets are available.
Time: VIP hour runs rom 12 to 1 p.m. with general admission open from 1 to 4 p.m. Cost: $15-50. Info: granitestatebrewers association.org/events/ nhbrewfest.
Kiwanis Outdoor Music Festival
Food, music, games, dancing and fireworks. Proceeds support the youth programs run by the Kiwanis Club of Colebrook.
Event to take place at the beautiful Mohawk Falls.
Time: 4 to 10 p.m. Cost: Varies. Info: mohawkfalls.com/events.html.
July 29
Chocolate Fest
Chocolate lovers are invited to head to Waterville Valley Resort for the 18th annual Chocolate Fest event. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth, this event celebrates chocolate and local restaurants will be offering an assortment of sweet treats. Guests may purchase delicacies by the piece. While indulging yourself in chocolate, enjoy the live music provided by Rumblefish.
Time: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Chocolate prices vary. Info: waterville.com/calendar/chocolate-fest.
Little Miss Hampton Beach Pageant
Little/JR Miss Hampton Beach, a sister pageant to Miss Hampton Beach, will be crowning a Little Miss and JR Miss Hampton Beach.
Time: 2 p.m. Cost: Free for spectators. Info: hamptonbeach.org/event-listing/ little-miss-hampton-beach-pageant.
July 30
Miss Hampton Beach Pageant
Join us this year as the 71st Miss Hampton Beach Pageant is held at the Seashell Stage.
Time: 2 p.m. Cost: Free for spectators. Info: hamptonbeach.org/event-listing/ miss-hampton-beach-pageant.
Aug. 4
Birthday at Conway Scenic Railroad
Celebrate our 43rd birthday with reduced fares (does not include dining cars).
Each passenger will receive cake and lemonade on their return to our station. Festivities and entertainment included.
Time: 9:30 a.m. Cost: Fares vary. Info: conwayscenic.com/events/ event/1275.
Jericho ATV Festival
If you love off-road riding this festival is for you. Join a poker run, try your luck in the mud, tackle the obstacle course or join the crowd in cheering on the mud runners competing in the popular Jericho Mud Races
Downtown Bock Party Aug. 4. Concert in the Park Aug. 5.
Time: 8 a.m. Cost: Prices vary. Info: androscogginvalleychamber.com/jericho-atv-festival.
Aug. 5
League of N.H. Craftsmen’s Fair
Start clearing out the car — you’ll want plenty of trunk space for this.
Artisans and crafters from around the state set up shop at this massive fest at Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, which boasts 25,000 attendees annually and the title of oldest continuously running craft fair in the United States.
Come ready to shop or just ready to learn and admire, either in the learn-how-it’s-made workshops scattered throughout the week or in the exhibition building full of curated art shows.
There’s also live music, chances to meet artisans one-on-one and other fun events held throughout the week, Aug. 5-13.
Time: All day. Cost: $10-12. Info: nhcrafts.org.
Art in the Park
This annual festival offers art experiences, nonprofit introductions, live music, fine arts and crafts, and fun activities for all ages.
Look for the big tent in scenic North Conway Village.
Fine artists and artisans in many mediums will introduce you to their painting, drawing, jewelry, photography, wood carving, printmaking and more — including historic White Mountain Art.
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free. Info: facebook.com/MWVArts.
Aug. 12
Woods, Water & Wildlife Festival
This family-friendly celebration of the natural world at Branch Hill Farm features fun and educational outdoor activities including hayrides to the river, rescued wild animals from Squam Lakes Science Center, fishing in the pond, a petting zoo, demonstrations of traditional rural skills, a kids’ discovery walk in the woods, guided nature walks and much more! Rain or shine; no pets please.
Time: 10 a.m. Cost: Free. Info: branchhillfarm.org.
Alton Bay Boat Show
This informal, non-judged vintage boat show is held at the Alton Bay town dock as part of the Alton Old Home Day. No advance registration ne cessary. All “woodies” welcome on a first-come-first-served basis. Visitors can vote for the People’s Choice Awards.
Time: 9 a.m. to noon. Cost: Free. Info: nhbm.org/ alton-bay-boat-show.
Poore Farm Music Festival
Come and join the Poore Family Foundation Historic Farm Museum for an outdoor concert. The day long musical event, includes traditional folk, bluegrass, progressive rock and more. Fire dancers too.
Time: Noon. Cost: Suggested $10 per adult, accompanied children under 12 are free. Info: PooreFarm.org.
Aug. 13
Hay DayFamily Festival
A fun-filled day for all ages with old-fashioned games, music, children’s art projects, scavenger hunt, petting zoo, face painting, and more. Explore nature trails; create a fairy house in the Fairy Village: discover Art in Nature 2017: Outdoor Sculpture exhibit and other brand new art and history exhibits in the Main House at the Fells. Step back in time and take a historic tour of the Main House and gardens, or simply imagine a simpler bygone life while relaxing on the Veranda.
A delicious lunch from the grill and strawberry shortcake will be for sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: Members free, $10 for adults; $8 for seniors and students; $4 for children ages 6-17; 5 and under are free for non-members. Info: thefells.org/view-by-date/hay-day-family-festival-at-the-fells.
Aug. 18
White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues
With two decades of festivals and a bevy of national blues preservation awards under its belt, this boogie-fest is not to be missed. This year’s lineup includes Memphis quintet Southern Avenue, Montreal chanteuse Dawn Tyler Watson and Louisiana funksters the New Orleans Suspects. To really dive into the festival experience, rent a campsite on the Boogie’s sprawling White Mountains grounds.
Time: 3 to 10 p.m., Aug. 18, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Aug. 19, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Aug. 20. Cost: $70-100. Info: whitemountainboogie.com.
Aug. 19
Cruise in to the Wright
The Wright Museum will host its fifth annual “Cruise in to the Wright” antique auto and motorcycle show/cruise-in featuring original antique and classic cars and motorcycles.
The standard price of museum admission will enable our general visitors to tour the Wright and enjoy all these remarkable automobiles Falls Path along Back Bay. Food will be available to purchase from MacDaddy’s Rollin’ Smoke food truck. There will be a 50/50 raffle taking place, with the winner being drawn at 1:30 p.m.
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $10 for adults; $8 for seniors and military; $6 for students; Children 4 and under are free. Info: wrightmuseum.org/cruise-in-to-the-wright.html.
Gate City Brewfest
The Gate City Brewfest is an annual brew festival that takes place at Historic Holman Stadium in Nashua.
Not only is it a great place for craft beer aficionados, with hundreds of different beers, ciders and non-alcoholic options to try, but it is also a great place to bring the whole family. We have activities for children, a corn hole tournament, live music from local bands, an art battle, a world renowned Budweiser Clydesdale, a chicken wing competition and more.
Time: 1 to 5 p.m. Cost: $30. Info: gatecitybrewfestnh.com.
Aug. 20
Fire on the Mountain Chili Festival
Pack up the kids and a package of Tums and head for the 15th annual Fire On the Mountain Chili Fest, sponsored by the Henniker Rotary Club on the slopes of Pats Peak.
The official chili tasting begins at noon. This annual festival has become a “must attend” area event. Attendees can sample chili prepared by area restaurants and amateur chili makers while enjoying a host of activities for the whole family. There will be an independent judging panel consisting of three of southern New Hampshire’s best known “foodies.” Attendees get in the act too, voting for the coveted “Peoples’ Choice” awards.
An array of 40 amateur and professional chili makers will tempt you with their recipes, other food and beverages are available for purchase (ice cream, ribs/hot dogs andburgers). The beer will be flowing and the mountain alive with live musical performances. Also part of the day’s festivities will be The Kid Zone with free activities, arts and crafts and face painting, a classic car show, craft concessions.
Time: Noon. Cost: $12 per person, $6 for children 10 and under and infants/toddlers free. Info: chilinewhampshire.org.
Aug. 25
Moose Festival
Celebrate all things moose at the 26th annual North Country Moose Festival.
Held annually the weekend before Labor Day, this year’s festivities include a moose calling contest, moose chili, live music, local crafters, as well as family favorites like horse and wagon rides, a dog show, and maple syrup tasting contest – not to mention the antique car show.
This event is the North Country Chamber of Commerce’s premiere fundraising event, drawing thousands each year. This year both days will be held in Canaan, Vt., with special activities in Pittsburg.
Time: 3 p.m. Cost: $5. Info: chamberofthenorthcountry.com/moose-festival.html.
Hampton Beach Talent Competition
Come watch talented entertainers compete for cash prizes, up to $1,000.
Semi Finals-Junior Competitors compete Aug. 25 Semi Finals-Senior Competitors Aug. 26. Finals for both juniors and senior Aug. 27.
Time: 7 p.m. Cost: Spectators free. Info: hamptonbeach.org/events/talent-competition.
Sept. 8
Hampton Beach Seafood Festival
The 28th Hampton Beach Seafood Festivalwill be held Sept. 8-10.
Come sample our world famous seafood at new england’s largest beach party. A unique spectacular event for the entire family.
Sixty restaurants serving an abundance of seafood and much more.
Hundreds of merchants with end of season sidewalk sales, arts and crafts vendors, lobster roll eating competition, kiddie land culinary chef demonstrations, continuous entertainment on two stages.
Fireworks shoot, sky diving extravaganza and free shuttle service and parking at over 12 satellite parking lots.
It’s the best beach party ever.
Time: Sept. 8, 4 to 9 p.m., Sept. 9, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sept. 10, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: $5-10. Info:hamptonbeachseafoodfestival.com.
