Looking for something to do outside of Southern New Hampshire? Check out the following upcoming events.
LINCOLN: Highland Games & Festival
Sept. 20-22
A three-day celebration that showcases the sights, sounds, and spirit of Scotland through pageantry, music, dance, traditional heavy athletics, beer and whisky tastings, and historical reenactments, and more.
Loon Mountain, 60 Loon Mountain Road
Tickets: www.nhscot.org
Questions? 603-229-1975
CANDIA: Pig Roast & Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, Sept. 21
Southern New Hampshire Snow Slickers will host a pig roast with axe throwing, corn hole, bonfire, and more!
4-8 p.m., at the clubhouse, 73 Tower Hill Road
Cost: $25 per person; kids 12 and under are free
Tickets: Donna Blais: 603-370-1362 / email: [email protected]
CHESTER: Fall Festival
Saturday, Sept. 21
Join for a free fun family-friendly event with local handmade artisans, free games, hay rides, guided nature walks, vintage tractors, crafts, food, vintage photos, raffles, agricultural demos, live music, and more.
10 a.m. -- Spring Hill Farm, 96 Towle Road
Info: www.facebook.com/springhillfarmchester
MANCHESTER: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Film Screening
Saturday, Sept. 21
Shellabrate 40 years of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with a special screening of the 1990 live action film. Join cast members from the film for a special Q&A before the film as they discuss bringing the turtles to the big screen for the very first time
7 p.m., The Rex Theatre, 23 Amherst Street
Cost: $30 per person
Info/tickets: 603-668-5588 / www.palacetheatre.org
MERRIMACK: Wags to Whiskers Festival
Saturday, Sept. 21
Come meet some adoptable pups at the Adoption Tent, bring the kids to the Kids' Fun Zone which includes carnival-style games and prizes, dog-friendly vendors, dog demos and more.
11 a.m. -- 3 p.m., Anheuser-Busch, 221 Daniel Webster Highway
Cost: $15 for adults 21+, $12 die ages 17-20; free for ages 16 and under
Info: https://shorturl.at/3AZKp
Questions? 603-889-2275 / www.hsfn.org
MILFORD: Wicked STEM
Saturday, Sept. 21
A daylong expo to connect the youth of New England with the vast STEM community in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and Massachusetts.
11 a.m. -- 5 p.m., The Hampshire Dome, 34 Emerson Road
Cost: Free admission
Register: www.wickedstem.com
PORTSMOUTH: Fairy House Tour
Sept. 21 & Sept. 22
Come see hundreds of enchanting fairy houses on display on the grounds of the Strawbery Banke Museum, Governor John Langdon House, Prescott Park and the Gundalow waterfront. Plus, enjoy fairy-inspired performances, fairy parade, and more!
10 a.m. -- 3 p.m., rain or shine, various locations
Info: www.fairyhousetour.com
PORTSMOUTH: Seacoast Veterans Conference
Saturday, Sept. 21
Join for a day dedicated to educating veterans on resources to better their health and well-being. Coffee, light refreshments and lunch provided.
8 a.m. -- 2 p.m., Service Credit Union, 3003 Lafayette Road
Register: https://shorturl.at/Oj75M
Questions? Sarah Kuhl: 603-422-7829
PORTSMOUTH: Stiletto Sprint
Saturday, Sept. 21
Grab a team of four and join this one-of-a-kind 40-yard dash in heels that is sure to be memorable! Proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire.
2 p.m., start from Pleasant Street
Cost: $40 per person or $25 as a virtual runner
Register: https://shorturl.at/1YgwL
RYE: BioBlitz
Saturday, Sept. 21
Families and nature enthusiasts team up with Seacoast Science Center's naturalists and guest experts to explore the Park's habitats to find and identify as many different species as possible in just one day! BioBlitz is a great way to get kids (and adults!) excited about science, learn about biodiversity, and discover how you can help protect our natural world.
6:30 a.m. -- 4 p.m., Seacoast Science Center
Cost: $17 for non-members age 12 and up, $15 for non-members ages 3-11, $15 for seniors and military, $5 for members (all ages); free for ages 0-2
Register: www.seacoastsciencecenter.org
STRATHAM: Make-A-Wish Car Show
Saturday, Sept. 21
North Country Region and Porsche Stratham present their 2024 Annual Car Show. Bring your family and invite your friends to cast their vote (with Make-A-Wish donation) for some of the finest cars in the area.
10:30 a.m. -- 2 p.m., Porsche Stratham, 60 Portsmouth Ave
Cost: $20 suggested donation for each car displayed
PORTSMOUTH: Celebrate Pink 5K & Walk
Sunday, Sept. 22
Step into a world adorned with love and positivity, where every footstep embodies hope and determination. Together, we honor the amazing spirit of those who have faced the battle against breast cancer with unwavering courage.
7 a.m. -- 12 p.m., Portsmouth Middle School
Info: www.mybreastcancersupport.org
Questions? 603-759-5640
DURHAM: 1950s Party
Tuesday, Sept. 24
Wear your 50's poodle skirts or leather jacket and listen to live music including doo-wop and oldies. Have an old fashioned hamburger or milkshake...or both! Partake in some vintage games and enter a chance to win numerous raffles! A portion of the proceeds will go towards the Alzheimer's Association.
11 a.m., Harmony Homes by the Bay, 40 Briggs Way
Cost: $10 suggested donation per person
Info: https://partyclick.com/Ky1duz
HOLDERNESS: Critter Crawl: A Decomposer Hike
Tuesday, Sept. 24
Enjoy a relaxed hike through Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest while having fun searching for, identifying, and learning about decomposers that live there.
2-5 p.m., Squam Lakes Association, 534 US Route 3
Register: 603-968-7336 / www.squamlakes.org
DEERFIELD: Deerfield Fair
Sept. 26-29
Agriculture and exhibits, horse shows, sheep and wool show, cars show, antique fairs, vendors, games, rides, food vendors, and so much more.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. -- 10 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. -- 7 p.m..
Held at Deerfield Fairgrounds, 34 Stage Road
Cost: $12 for adults (Ages 13+); children age 12 and under are freeInfo/discounts on advance tickets: www.deerfieldfair.com
LACONIA: Fantastic Forage Mushroom Festival
Sept. 28-29
Featuring guided walks, lectures, music, kids activities and exhibits and more!
10 a.m. -- 3:30 p.m., The Mystic Meadows, 2075 Parade Road
Info: www.fantasticforage.com
LACONIA: Red, White & Brew Fest
Saturday, Sept. 28
Enjoy craft beer, wine, food, a car show, an auction, raffles, live music from The Bob Pratte Band, and more! Proceeds benefit New Hampshire service members, veterans, and their families.
12-7 p.m., Funspot, 579 Endicott Street
Cost: $30 general admission, $50 VIP; free for service members and veterans
Tickets/info: www.vetscount.org/events
WINCHESTER: Pickle Festival
Saturday, Sept. 28
The Pickle Festival has proven to be an outstanding community event with over 5000+ people from near and far enjoying an entire day of activities, entertainment, food, local vendors, and more.
10 a.m. -- 4 p.m., rain or shine, Main Street
Info: www.winchesternhpicklefestival.org
HOLDERNESS: Fall Naturalist Cruise
Sunday, Sept. 29
Enjoy the beauty of Autumn while learning about the rich natural history of Squam Lake with an experienced naturalist. Watch for Common Loons, Bald Eagles, and other wildlife as you take in the sights of Squam's scenic mountain ranges, charming islands, and quiet spots. The route is chosen to maximize wildlife observations.
3-4:30 p.m., Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, 23 Science Center Road
Cost: $32 for adults, $30 for seniors (65+), $28 for youth up to age 15
Info/tickets: www.nhnature.org
WARNER: Harvest Moon Festival
Sunday, Sept. 29
A family-friendly event featuring Native foods, craft demonstrations, activities for kids, and educational exhibits. Food for sale, prepared using Native American recipes, includes bison stew, chicken wild rice stew, several varieties of cornbread, and Native sweets.
10 a.m. -- 4 p.m., Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, 18 Highlawn Road
Cost: $13 for adults, $7 for members and children
Info: www.indianmuseum.org
BEDFORD: 18 Reasons to Give Golf Tournament
Monday, Sept. 30
Golfers will participate in a shotgun start, bramble-format tournament (begins at 11 a.m.). Proceeds to support Easterseals NH.
9:30 a.m. -- 2 p.m., Manchester Country Club, 180 South River Road
Info: www.eastersealsnh.org/events
RYE: Whales, Lighthouses and Photography Lollapalooza Cruise
Tuesday, Oct. 1
This will be a combined whale watch and lighthouse cruise, with the added bonus of a guest photographer who will share tips for great photos.
12:30-7 p.m., from Rye Harbor
Cost: $89 per person
Must register: www.portsmouthharborlighthouse.org
CONCORD: NH Book Festival
Friday & Saturday, Oct. 4-5
A two-day festival of live presentations, panel discussions, and book signings by more than 40 nationally known authors.
Hours: Friday, 10 a.m. -- 9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. -- 6 p.m.
All events held at Capital Center for the Arts, Gibson's Bookstore, and South Main Street
Info: www.nhbookfestival.org
DOVER: Apple Harvest Day
Saturday, Oct. 5
A day-long family event, featuring 300+ vendors, great food, live entertainment, and more.
9 a.m. -- 4 p.m., downtown
Info: www.appleharvestday.com
MILFORD: Milford Pumpkin Festival
Oct. 11-13
Enjoy the pumpkin carvings and lighting display, live music, a haunted trail, beer, games, food, raffles, rubber duck race, bounce houses, games, and so much more!
Free parking is available at the Milford High School, 100 West Street, and at the adjacent Milford Middle School, 33 Osgood Road. Free Shuttle Buses will be running throughout the festival.
Info: www.milfordpumpkinfestival.org
LEE: Fairy and Hobbit House Festival
Oct. 12-14
Bring your friends and family to Bedrock Gardens over the long holiday weekend for some outdoor fun with a touch of magic. A three-day festival to celebrate creativity, imagination, nature, play, and lore in their enchanted woodlands.
10 a.m. -- 4 p.m., Bedrock Gardens, 19 High Road
Cost: $45 for Parking and Entrance regardless of the number of people in the vehicle. Street parking is strictly forbidden. By Foot, Bike or Drop-off Driver Service: $15 for adults, $5 for ages 4-12; free for age 3 and under
Register for parking: www.bedrockgardens.org
Questions? 603-659-2993 / email: [email protected]
SANDWICH: Sandwich Fair
Oct. 12-14
Livestock, exhibits, vendors, demonstrations, tractor pulls, rides, games and much more.
8 a.m. -- 6 p.m., 7 Wentworth Hill Road
Cost: $12 for adults (Ages 12+), children under age 12 are free (Rides and carnival extra)
Info/discounts on tickets through Sept. 30: www.thesandwichfair.com
PORTSMOUTH: New Hampshire Film Festival
Oct. 17-20
Four days with over 100 independent film screenings.
9:30 a.m. -- 6:30 p.m., Thursday -- Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m. -- 3:30 p.m., at various locations in Portsmouth
Schedule: www.NHFilmFestival.com
Tickets: https://shorturl.at/V3uRK
MANCHESTER: Veterans Count Beyond the Boots Gala
Saturday, Oct. 19
Join for a fun night out at the Currier Museum of Art where you can view the galleries, learn more about Veterans Count, and end the evening with dancing to some great music.
6-11 a.m., Currier Museum, 150 Ash Street
Cost: $75 per person
Info/tickets: www.eastersealsnh.org/events
LACONIA: Pumpkin Festival
Oct. 22 -- Oct. 31
Rally your squad-whether they're ghostly ghouls, ace corn hole players, enthusiastic shoppers, foodie connoisseurs, or pumpkin admirers. This year, the festival is bursting with new surprises, promising an unforgettable experience for all who dare to join. From leisurely strolls to scenic drives or even a boat ride adventure, there's no wrong way to immerse yourself in the magic of autumn in NH's Lakes Region.
Held downtown Laconia and Weirs Beach
Info/schedule: www.nhpumpkinfestival.com
PORTSMOUTH: Project Upcycle Runway Event
Saturday, Oct. 26
Eight designers will participate in a sustainable fashion challenge to roll out red carpet looks for the runway using both upcycled garments and surplus fabric. Along with a new design challenge, comes new features: Project Upcycle sponsor, Savers will host a Second Hand Sweep: designers will be timed as they dash through the aisles with $100 to spend on thrift and vintage elements for their designs.
7:30-10 p.m., 3S Artspace, 319 Vaughan Street
Cost: $60-$125
Info/tickets: https://shorturl.at/5jGdZ
CONCORD: Strengthening Families Summit
Tuesday, Oct. 29
The Summit will provide a forum that cultivates community conversations and learning around Strengthening Protective Factors and reducing risks for children and families.
8 a.m. -- 4 p.m., Grappone Conference Center, 70 Constitution Ave
Cost: $100-$125
Register/info: www.nhchildrenstrust.org
DOVER: Dover High School's 40th Annual Craft Fair
Saturday, Nov. 2
Shop from 100+ crafters, live music, delicious food, raffles, and more!
9:30 a.m. -- 3 p.m., Dover High School, 25 Alumni Drive
NASHUA: Veterans Count Nashua Salute Our Soldiers Gala
Saturday, Nov. 16
Join for a memorable evening to honor, celebrate, and support our local military community.
5 p.m., Sky Meadow Country Club, 6 Mountain Laurels Drive
Info/tickets: www.eastersealsnh.org/events
STRATHAM: 45th Annual Yuletide Fair
Saturday, Nov. 23
The fair features over 120 crafters with holiday items ranging from ornaments to centerpieces for your holiday table! Also jewelry, homemade candles, signs, handbags, and much more.
9 a.m. -- 3 p.m., Co-op Middle School, 100 Academic Way
Cost: $1 admission per person
Info: www.facebook.com/Exeter.Area.GFWC
PORTSMOUTH: Donna The Buffalo
Saturday, Dec. 14
Since 1989, roots rockers Donna The Buffalo have played countless shows and festivals (Bonnaroo, Newport Folk, Austin City Limits). They've opened for The Dead and toured with Peter Rowan, Del McCoury, Los Lobos, Little Feat, Rusted Root, and Railroad Earth to name a few.
8 p.m., 3S Artspace, 319 Vaughan Street
Cost: $25 Member / $27 General Admission Advance/ $30 GA Day of Show
Tickets/info: https://shorturl.at/vrNZa
NASHUA: Christmas with The Tenors
Sunday, Dec. 22
The Tenors have been thrilling fans around the world for years, with their powerful songs, outstanding harmonies, and undeniable charm. Performing symphony shows and concert tours, their distinct sound reimagines iconic hits and blends classical music, contemporary pop, classic rock, folk and inspired, self-penned original songs.
3 p.m., Nashua Center for Arts, 201 Main Street
Cost: $49-$79
Info/tickets: 800-657-8774 / www.NashuaCenterfortheArts.com
MANCHESTER: Recycled Percussion
Dec. 31, 2024 -- Jan. 12, 2025
You may have seen them impressing the judges on America's Got Talent, or even seen them perform in Las Vegas or maybe as they opened the 2017 Super Bowl or on their Emmy Award Winning TV show "Chaos & Kindness"! Maybe, just maybe, you are one of the few that have not seen this amazing show. Whether it is your first time or your tenth, a Recycled Percussion show always rocks!
Showtimes vary, Palace Theatre, 80 Hanover St.
Info/tickets: 603-668-5588 / www.palacetheatre.org