Sept. 13
PARADE OF THE PUMPKINS
Tarbin Gardens is hosting self-guided tour featuring pumpkins and gourds through Sept. 18. We provide a map, featured areas are flagged throughout the gardens and all plants are labeled. Bring a picnic lunch or treat yourself to an authentic English Cream Tea served in the Rose Garden Patio from 1 to 5 p.m. (tea price $8.50). The gardens are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: Adults $9, seniors, students and children $7.50. Location: 321 Salisbury Road (Route 127), Franklin. More info: tarbingardens.com, 934-3518.
Sept. 15
WICKED HAUNTED WATERFRONT TOUR
Explore the darker past of Portsmouth on this haunted history tour that steps back into a hidden and almost forgotten past of the city’s South End. Seek out the shadows of shanghaied sailors and uncover the city’s sordid past. Uncover secrets and stories and discover how “wicked” the waterfront used to be. Thursdays through October. 7 p.m. Cost: $18 for ages 13 and up, $12 for 12 and under. Location: 19 Sheafe St., Portsmouth. More info: newenglandcuriosities.com, 343-7977.
Sept. 16
HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL ABOARD THE M/S MOUNT WASHINGTON
The moon is extra bright over the lake. Enjoy the romance of Lake Winnipesaukee at night and dance to music from the good old days. Buffet dinner included. Must be 21 or over unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian. Cost: Adults $52, 60-plus $42, children $42. Location: 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, Laconia. More info: cruiseNH.com, 366-5531.
NEW HAMPSHIRE HIGHLAND GAMES & FESTIVAL
Grab your kilt for the 41st annual New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival! One of the largest Scottish festivals in the country, the Highland Games is a celebration of Scottish music, food and drink, athletics, dance, heritage and more! There’s fun for all ages: world-class musical performances; heavy athletics (caber toss, sheaf toss, hammer toss, and more); pipe band, fiddle, harp, and highland dance competitions; sheep dog trials, living history and seminars: Youth Program with music, dance, crafts, storytelling and games. Event runs Friday (Sept. 16) to Sunday (Sept. 18). Grounds open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Friday: $20; Saturday: $35; Sunday: $25; Weekend Pass (3 days): $60. Children 14 and under admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Location: 60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln. More info: nhscot.org, 745-5666.
Sept. 17
‘A WALK IN THE WORDS’ LITERATURE & GARDENS FESTIVAL
Join us for a literature and gardens festival, co-sponsored by Bedrock Gardens and the Lee Library Foundation. Words and wit will sprout as performers and guests share book and play readings, poetry slams, haiku, and Once-Upon-a-Time story-building in Bedrock’s creative garden setting. Both Saturday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Sunday (noon to 4 p.m.). There will be music from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday by The Jazz Lab. Cost: $10 suggested donation. Location: 45 High Road, Lee. More info: bedrockgardens.org, 659-2993.
8TH ANNUAL HAMPTON FALLS CRAFT FESTIVAL
The scenic town common on Hampton Falls will come alive with color, flavor and music for the 8th annual Hampton Falls Craft Festival on Sept. 17-18. Over 75 juried craftspeople from all over New England will display and sell their American made works. Festival hours are Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live musical entertainment each day. Cost: Free. Location: Route 1, Hampton Falls. More info: castleberryfairs.com, 332-2616.
FELTED PUMPKINS & GOURDS
Join us at the League of NH Craftsmen – Meredith Fine Craft Gallery – from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for a needle felted wool pumpkins and gourds class with Carolyn Wright. During this class, students will learn how to make felted pumpkins and gourds that will be perfect for any garden lover or your harvest table. No experience necessary and this class is for all ages. Space is limited. Registration is required. Cost: $20, plus $10 materials fee. Location: 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith. More info: meredith.nh crafts.org, 279-7920.
AUBURN DAY AND DUCK RACE
Enjoy a fun-filled day for the whole family with a celebration for the town of Auburn featuring the famous duck race, Salmon Falls apple pie contest, antique car show, New Hampshire artisans, crafters and vendors, children’s activities, food and more. Music will be provided by DJ Paul Lepine. There will be a special children’s blow-up duck race and then the 24th annual duck race will begin at 2:30 p.m. Event begins at 10 a.m. Cost: Free. Location: Auburn Village, 22 Hooksett Road, Auburn. More info: auburnhistorical.org, 370-0151.
HILLTOP CITY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
The 3rd annual Hilltop City Bluegrass Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Pavilion at Somersworth High School. Along with great music, the festival also features a beer tent, quality arts and crafts by local artisans, and a delicious selection of local food specialties. This one-day festival is a family-friendly, community event, held rain or shine. Cost: $20, $25 at the gate. Children 12 and under free. Location: 11 Memorial Drive, Somersworth. More info: hilltopcitybluegrass.com, 692-7175.
UNH OCEAN DISCOVERY DAY
At Ocean Discovery Day, UNH will open the doors of its marine research laboratories to highlight how scientists and students engage with our rich natural resources and utilize our proximity to the ocean for their studies. Join us at the Chase Ocean Engineering Laboratory on the UNH Durham campus and enjoy family-friendly, hands-on demonstrations, tours and talks. Check out the hand-powered wave tank, watch animations of whale behavior underwater and drive mini-ROVs (remotely operated vehicles). Demos and talks on topics such as ocean renewable energy, aquaculture, seafloor mapping and underwater exploration are offered, while hands-on activities include marine life touch tanks, lobster banding and fish printing. 10 a.m. Cost: Free. Location: Chase Ocean Engineering Lab, 24 Colovos Road, Durham. More info: marine.unh.edu/oceandiscoveryday, 862-2959.
HARVEST FESTIVAL AT PRESCOTT FARM
The 7th annual Harvest Festival at Prescott Farm will be held Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrate harvest time at the farm with a number of festivities including; horse drawn hayrides, music, a petting farm and much more. Cost: Free. Location: 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia. More info: prescottfarm.org, 366-5695.
MAD HATTER TEA PARTY
Join the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD) for a very, merry un-birthday celebration with the Mad Hatter! He’ll be in Manchester for the Mad Hatter Tea Party before the CHaD Storybook Ball at Manchester Community College. This special event offers youngsters a glimpse into the world of make believe that is the storybook gala. During the tea party, kids ages 3-12 can dress as their favorite storybook characters, take an exclusive tour of the storybook-themed tables, and then vote on their favorite ones. There will be a tea party with treats, a special kids activity and red carpet photos with the Mad Hatter and friends. PLUS, author Dave Bastien will read his latest book, Pick Me! Pick Me! The Story of the Magic Pumpkin. Tea times are 1, 1:30, 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., and reservations must be booked in advanced. Space is limited. Cost: $15 per child (adults are free!). Location: 1066 Front St., Manchester. More info: CHaDStorybookBall.org, 629-1236.
Sept. 23
LITTLETON AREA ART FESTIVAL – ART IN THE MOUNTAINS
The 47th annual festival features three days of art events throughout the Littleton area. Art In The Mountains will feature a juried art show as well as musical, performing and culinary art events. Got a classic car – or just want one? The event also includes the Littleton Lions Annual Antique Car Show & Parade. Cost: Free. Location: Littleton and surrouding towns. More info: littletonareachambernh.com, 444-6561.
Sept. 24
DIXVILLE HALF MARATHON
A scenic downhill run along the Mohawk River in northern New Hampshire during peak foliage. Starts at Coleman State Park and Ends at the North Country Community Rec. Center on Lynch Rd. 10:30 a.m. Cost: $15-40. Location: Coleman State Park, Stewartstown. More info: 237-4019, nccrc@myfairpoint.net.
Settlers Green Fall Festival
Settlers Green’s annual Fall Festival is slated for Saturday, Sept. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “on the green” by Timberland Factory Store. Kid-friendly activities include pumpkin painting, free horse-drawn hay rides, entertainment, complimentary apple cider and apples and a nonprofit bake sale. Hay rides by Carousel Horse Farm begin and end at the Timberland Factory Store and follows a route throughout Settlers Green. There will be free pumpkin painting with local artist, Carol Hanson; Small pumpkins can be purchased for $2 at the event. New this year: pumpkin carving! Artist William Janelle will be hand carving pumpkins for curious on-lookers to enjoy throughout the day’s event. Local vocalist and guitarist Julia Velie will play from noon to 2 p.m. at the Gazebo. Cost: Free. Location: 2 Common Court Unit C13, North Conway. More info: settlersgreen.com.
RIVER BUG FESTIVAL
Discover many species of underwater insects that live in the Merrimack River. Observe these bugs up close and learn how to identify them using the Creek Critters app. The day will include aquatic insect crafts, games, exploration and identification. Vote for your favorite river bug to win in the “Most Loved Bug” category of 2016. 11 a.m. Cost: $3, $6 for family. Location: The Amoskeag Fishways, 4 Fletcher St., Manchester. More info: amoskeagfishways.org, 626-3474.
OKTOBERFEST
Celebrate Oktoberfest in the “Wurst” possible-style at Fabyan’s Station Restaurant, from 1 to 4 p.m. Join for a delicious sample of local and regional beers, traditional German fare of the “Wurst” variety, including bierocks, sauerkraut, Gebrannte Mandeln, and gingerbread hearts, as well as fun and games like the “Root Beer Olympics,” ladder golf, corn hole, volleyball and fun crafts for the whole family. Dance to our favorite polka playlist and catch a performance of our silly Bavarian players. Cost: $25. Location: 2329 Route 302 W, Bretton Woods. More info: brettonwoods.com/activities, 278-8989.
WHITE MOUNTAIN STORYTELLING FESTIVAL
The 6th annual festival produced by the N.H. Storytelling Alliance features Sharon Kennedy, called by Yankee Magazine “One of 60 people who make New England, New England!” plus other amazing storytellers. Festival runs Saturday and Sunday. Cost: $5-25. Location: Waterville Valley Town Square, 6 Village Road, Waterville Valley. More info: nhstorytelling.org/festival.
AUTUMN HARVEST DINNER
Celebrate the Fall Equinox and all of summer’s bounty at the Bellows Walpole Inn, as they host their first farm to table dinner offering a special menu featuring locally produced meat, fruits and vegetables. 5 p.m. Call 756-3320 to make a reservation. Cost: Varies. Location: 297 Main St., Walpole. More info: facebook.com/walpoleinn, 756-3320.
12TH ANNUAL HARVEST FESTIVAL
A celebration of agricultural life and accompanying historic crafts, trades, traditions and pastimes. Located on the grounds of a historic farmstead — seasonal festivities, down-home foods and old-time fun for all generations! Demonstrations, wagon rides, vendors, farm animals, live music, seasonal games and exhibits. 10 am. Cost: $10, ages 11 and up; $5, ages 5 to 10; free, ages 4 and under. Location: Remick Museum, 58 Cleveland Hill Road, Tamwoth Village. More info: remickmuseum.org, 323-7591.
A SWEET SOIREE
Main Street Art presents Chocolate, Wine and Art – a special fundraising event celebrating Main Street Art’s 5th Anniversary – featuring an art exhibit, silent auction and art grab where ticket holders choose and take home a one-of-a-kind piece of art, all while enjoying delectable treats! 7 p.m. Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Location: The Mill Space, 55 Main St., Newmarket. More info: mainstreetart.org, 580-5835.
NOT-SO-ORDINARY PUMPKIN PATCH
The “Not-So-Ordinary” Pumpkin Patch is open every Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct. 15, at Prescott Farm. Join us for a naturalist-led tour of our “Not-So-Ordinary” Pumpkin Patch – an experimental examination of the natural history and taxonomy of pumpkins including about 30 unique varieties of pumpkins that highlight newly developed hybrids and extremely hard-to-find heirloom varieties. Colors range from sun yellow to white and even black and pink varieties. There are varieties that are grown solely for eating their seeds, their beauty and their culinary use. While you are here, plan to pick your own pumpkins from our more traditional pumpkin patch after the tour. It truly is a wonderful fall tradition to enjoy with family and friends. All pick-your-own pumpkins are Jack-O-Lantern varieties and can be purchased at the Education Center. Cost: $7.50. Location: 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia. More info: prescottfarm.org.
THE GHOULLOG
Enter the 10th season of the Ghoullog at Cranmore! The approximate 50-minute haunt leads the unsuspecting through dark twists and turns, plus an outdoor element leading through the scariest of dark woods. Starts Sept. 24. 6:30pm. Cost: $27-44. Location: 1 Skimobile Road, North Conway. More info: theghoullog.com.
Sept. 25
HARVEST MOON AND NATUREFEST
The Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum and The Little Nature Museum will host Harvest Moon and NatureFest, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, on the grounds of both museums. This annual fundraising event will be fun for the whole family! At 10:30 a.m., N.H. Audubon will present “Raptor Rapture” which will include a live owl, peregrine falcon and a hawk. Learn more about these predators, their adaptations and how you can help them. At 2 p.m., “Wildlife Encounters” will bring a variety live animals, some rare, to help us learn more about wildlife. Visit both museums to see exhibits and collections. Both will have demonstrations and numerous hands-on outdoor activities for kids. Join the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum as we celebrate the fall harvest with a day of hands-on activities, Native American living history displays, music, crafts and Native American foods. The Little Nature Museum will offer hands-on nature activities, demonstrations and nature prizes. Cost: $10, adults, $5, children and seniors; $25, family. Location: 18 Highlawn Road, Warner. More info: indianmuseum.org, littlenaturemuseum.org, 746-6121.
Sept. 29
THE CRAFTWORKERS GUILD HARVEST FAIR
The Craftworker’s Guild Harvest Fair shop will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 29 – Oct. 10. Everything from seasonal decor to beautifully crafted jewelry and accessories as well as fiber and fabric arts, photography and fine art, stained and fused glass work, gourmet treats, jewelry in a wide variety of materials, paper arts and cards, ornaments, wood products, sewn and knitted items, doll clothes, paintings, local honey, soap and body products and more will be available. More than 80 artisans and craftspeople will be displaying their work. The guild will also be open Oct. 6 until 8 p.m. for the Harvest Fest Night. Cost: Free. Location: 5 Meetinghouse Road, Bedford. More info: craftworkersguild.org, 472-5821.
DEERFIELD FAIR
140 Years of Agricultural Family Fun! New England’s oldest family fair runs Sept. 29-Oct. 2. Fun activities for the whole family. Cost: $10 for adults, children 12 and under and free. Location: 34 Stage Road, Deerfield. More info: deerfieldfair.com.
Oct. 1
CDDA HARVEST FAIR
This event would not be complete without the annual Chili/Chowder Challenge, 50/50 raffle, vendor raffle and new this year, a pumpkin carving contest. Live music creates a wonderful ambiance that is sure to please anyone that is looking to get a jump start on their holiday shopping. 9 a.m. Cost: Free. Location: Colebrook Elementary School Gym, Colebrook. More info: chamberofthenorthcountry.com, 237-5011.
FAMILY FUN DAY
Family Fun Day will be held at Nashua High School South from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Family Fun Day is an indoor event offered to the public twice a year. The overall event focuses on health and fitness, safety, and literacy for children and their families. There is a large section of the event dedicated to health and fitness including free samples of nutritious foods and beverages, and easy and fun ways to stay active and play. Family Fun Day offers all-day live entertainment, costume characters and team mascots, bounce houses, obstacle course, pitching station, coloring contest, face painting, balloon art, princess characters, and so much more. All participants in the coloring contest receive a book as their prize. There are two grand prize coloring contest winners who receive new bikes with helmets. The first 1,000 attendees of Family Fun Day receive a giveaway bag when they enter the event, filled with samples, coupons and giveaways from local businesses and Family Fun Day exhibitors. Cost: $1. Location: Nashua High School South, 36 Riverside St. More info: liliguanausa.org/ffd-oct, 881-9805.
CRAFT FESTIVAL ON THE LAKE
The scenic Mill Falls Marketplace in Meredith will come alive with color, flavor and music on Saturday, Oct. 1 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Sunday Oct. 2 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Over 100 juried craftspeople and artisans will display and sell their American made works. Come sample the culinary delights and enjoy craft demonstrations each day. Gorgeous fall foliage completes this picture perfect New England Event. The Festival is held rain or shine. Cost: Free. Location: Route 3, Meredith. More info:castleberryfairs.com, 332-2616.
EXETER POWDER KEG BEER & CHILI FESTIVAL
The 5th Annual Exeter Powder Keg Beer & Chili Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Breweries and beer enthusiasts from the region will gather for a sampling of fresh beers of all colors, styles and tastes. Also vote for your favorite chili! Cost: $30. Location: Swasey Park, Exeter. More info: powderkegbeerfest.com, 772-2411.
RED, WHITE & BREW
Enjoy a craft beer and wine festival with live music, food, a car show, and local vendors/artisans. Admission includes commemorative mug – while supplies last! All proceeds benefit Veterans Count.
Cost: $40, VIP; $25. Location: 579 Endicott St., Laconia. More info: vetscount.org/nh, 623-8863.
ERROL HERITAGE DAY – LUMBERJACK COMPETITION
Bring the family to celebrate the rich history of Errol. Pancake breakfast, 7 to 9 a.m., professional lumberjack competition, including many World Record Holders from the U.S. and Canada, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., vendors, local crafters, displays and demonstrations, lagoon of doom log rolling, kids games, BBQ lunch, auction, 50/50 raffle, helicopter rides in the school field, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Spaghetti Dinner at the Errol Fire Station to benefit the Errol Heritage Commission. Cost: Free. Location: 54 Main St. Errol. More info: 482-3884.
SOAP BOX DERBY FALL RALLY WEEKEND
Gravity-powered cars in side-by-side competition for boys and girls ages 7 to 18. Build your own car in time for the race or try out one of ours! Races Oct. 1 and 2. Cost: Free for spectators. Location: New Hampshire Motor Speedway, 1122 Route 106 North, Loudon. More info: 953-3086, newhampshire@soapboxderby.org.
Oct. 2
SMUTTYNOSE HALF MARATHON & 5K
The gorgeously scenic coastal New Hampshire town of Hampton Beach is the setting for the annual fall running of the Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon, a 13.1-mile race that takes runners on what is considered one of the easiest half-marathon courses in the region, a route that runs both inland and along the coastline and features just two significant hills. Cost: $85. Location: 170 Ocean Blvd., Hampton Beach. More info: 926-8718.
OKTOBERFEST
Enjoy an evening of food and fun and live oompah music! Hors d’ouevres begin at 5 p.m. and the sit down dinner begins at 6 p.m. Both will feature great German fare. Reservations required. This is a BYOB event. Cost: $26.95, adults; $13.50, children 5 to 15; $7.50, children 2 to 4. Location: 460 Monadnock St., Troy. More info: east-hill-farm.com.
Oct. 7
MILFORD PUMPKIN FESTIVAL
The Milford Pumpkin Festival is one of the most highly anticipated annual events in New England each fall, drawing more than 35,000 people to historic downtown Milford. The event, traditionally held over the Columbus Day weekend each year, is spread out over the Milford Oval, Milford Town Hall, Middle Street, Emerson Park, Community House Lawn, and the entire downtown area! Signature events and activities include: a spectacular fireworks show Friday night, two stages with live bands providing entertainment throughout the weekend, a pumpkin catapult, pumpkin painting, scarecrow building, a ‘largest’ pumpkin weigh-in contest, a haunted trail; the zombie walk and a talent show on Saturday night. Plenty of free parking at Milford High School, with frequent, complimentary shuttle buses running throughout the weekend.
Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Milford. More info:milfordpumpkinfestival.org.
Oct. 8
OCTOBER FESTIVAL
A family fall foliage fun event in the heart of downtown Rochester on Hanson Street and in Central Square. Crafts, arts, demonstrations, food, entertainment, storytelling, games and other activities. Featured entertainment is Captain Fiddle & The Crawdad Wranglers Cajun Zydeco Band. Cost: Free. Location: Central Square, Rochester. More info: rochestermainstreet.org, 330-3208.
LINCOLN FALL CRAFT FESTIVAL
Main Street in Lincoln will burst into color, flavor and sound for the 20th annual Lincoln Fall Craft Festival Oct. 8-10. A wide array of American made handcrafts will be displayed and sold by artisans. Live musical entertainment and craft demonstrations daily. Cost: Free. Location: 138 Main St., Franconia. More info: castleberryfairs.com, 332-2616.
WHITE MOUNTAIN OKTOBERFEST
Get a taste of the Bavarian Alps right here at Loon Mountain during White Mountain Oktoberfest, the area’s largest celebration of German food, drink and culture. This two-day festival perfectly coincides with fall foliage season, so you’ll enjoy beer and brats alongside stunning views of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. With an Oompah-band providing the soundtrack to a stein-hosting contest, keg toss and kids’ activities – including a root beer keg toss and pumpkin painting – you’ll have an awesome time. 10 a.m. Cost: Free. Location: 60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln. More info: 745-5666.
FALL FOLIAGE ART STUDIO TOUR
The Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour takes place the weekend of Oct. 8-9, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Over 25 artists open their studios in Antrim, Keene, Nelson, New Ipswich, Rindge, Stoddard, Munsonville and Swanzey, showcasing work in sculpture, painting, pottery, encaustics, animation, glass, drawing, photography and woodturning. Cost: Free. Location: Southern New Hampshire. More info: fallfoliageartstudiotour.com.
Oct. 9
BREW HA HA
Celebrate the season with friends and family while sampling a wide variety of craft beers produced throughout the greater New Hampshire and New England region in your own Brew Ha Ha commemorative mug. Each mug purchased will include three 6-ounce beer samples, and additional beer samples will be available for purchase at the festival. Enjoy great live music, take a stroll through the food corral and enjoy activities for all ages. Cost: Free admission. Location: King Pine Ski Area, 1251 Eaton Road, Route 153, East Madison. More info: purityspring.com/brew-ha-ha-festival.
Oct. 15
RIVERFIRE
Riverfire burns bigger and brighter every year! There will be a duck race on the Androscoggin River, hayrides, a Children’s costume parade and bouncy houses. Stroll on the beautiful River Walk, warmly illuminated with Tiki Torches. The River Walk leads to a wonderful and sometime eerie display of intricately carved and lighted pumpkins on the walking bridge. Rounding out the evening is a variety of entertainment, food and beverage vendors and the spectacular Riverfire lighting ceremony at dusk. 2 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Location: 942 Main St., Northern Forest Heritage Park, Berlin. More info: androscogginvalleychamber.com/riverfire-festival, 752-6060.
LEAF PEEPER’S CRAFT SHOW
Don’t miss this fabulous arts and crafts fair with 80 wonderful exhibitors. Rain or shine with inside and outside exhibits, music and food. 10 a.m. Cost: Free. Location: North Conway Community Center, 2628 White Mountain Highway, North Conway. More info: joycescraftshows.com.
PETERBOROUGH FALL BALL CONTRA DANCE
Enjoy the foliage on your way to the 22nd annual Fall Ball Contra Dance at the Peterborough Town House. Dancing from noon to midnight. Cost: $25. Location: 1 Grove St., Peterborough. More info: 413-369-4369.
HALLOWEEN HOOT N’ HOWL
Come and celebrate Halloween with a pumpkin lighting, trail tour and more thrilling Halloween activities for you and your family. 9:30 a.m. Cost: $8/members; $11/non-members. Location: Squam Lakes Science Center, 23 Science Center Road, Holderness. More info: nhnature.org.
HALLOWEEN HOLISTIC PSYCHIC FAIR
TV show host of Believe It, Dawn Drew, will be on hand offering readings through The Great Mayan Medicine Wheel. There will be artists, organic products, harp music, energy healers, candles and much more. Cost: Free. Location: Holiday Inn, 172 N. Main St., Concord. More info: 540-7215.
PEAK INTO PETERBOROUGH
Peterborough pulls out all the stops for this special day, with tent sales, hayrides, live music and much more. It’s a fall foliage tour, day-on-the-town and early Christmas shopping opportunity all at once. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Peterborough. More info: peterboroughchamber.com/peak-into-peterborough.
Oct. 21
JACKSON’S NEW ENGLAND PUMPKIN CARVING COMPETITION
Sculptors/carvers begin working on their pumpkins any time after noon on Oct. 21. Competitors have until 7 p.m. on Saturday evening to work on their displays. They must finish by 7 p.m. on Saturday night for the lighting ceremony which is at 7:30. Visitors are welcome to come and watch the process, meet the sculptors/carvers and enjoy all the other things going on in Jackson Village Park and the surrounding areas. Cost: Free. Location: Jackson Village Park Area, Jackson. More info: jacksonnh.com.
Oct. 22
HALLOWEEN MASQUERADE BALL
Join a boatload of spooky characters on a cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee. It is a great Halloween party with the best costumes in all of N.H. Buffet dinner and dancing to live music. Costume competition with prizes completes the night. This cruise is for adults over 21 only. 6 p.m. Cost: $55. Location: 211 Lakeside Ave.,Weirs Beach. More info: cruisenh.com.
HALLOWEEN TOWN
This fall, experience a truly family-friendly Halloween experience. Dress in your Halloween costumes and walk up the hill to Halloween Town on the grounds of Camp Tohkomeupog. The Trick-or-Treat Trail is an atmospherically lighted pathway guiding “trick-or-theaters” throughout camp to visit a series of themed cabins. Halloween surprises (candy, knick-knacks) will be offered at each cabin. This ½ mile long trail leads travelers through 25 cabins (even a haunted house!), transformed into a theme. Cost: Free. Location: 1251 Eaton Road, East Madison. More info: halloweentownnh.thelaurafoundation.org.
Oct. 28
WICKED WOODS WEEKEND
Come spend your Halloween in the Wicked Woods of the Great North. A long-continued tradition at Omni Mount Washington Resort, this three-day event features tricks and treats for the whole family. Don’t forget to bring your own costume on Saturday night for the fourth annual Trunk or Treat Family Celebration and Kids’ Halloween Costume Party. As for the adults, we will host a “Wicked” costume party Saturday evening for you to let loose and howl at the moon. Cost: Varies. Location: 310 Mt. Washington Hotel Road, Bretton Woods. More info: brettonwoods.com/WickedWoods.
HALLOWEEN HOWL
Concord’s traditional Halloween Howl returns to downtown on Oct. 28. This free community event offers a variety of activities for all ages, including trick-or-treating at downtown businesses from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. North Main Street from Centre Street to Pleasant Street will be closed to vehicles from 4 to 8:30 pm to make way for all the fun and to ensure safety for thousands of trick-or-treaters! LNH’s Nazzy and Mya will host a dance party on North Main Street in front of City Plaza, and the annual costume parade starts at 6 p.m. Concord Fire Department will bring a fire truck for kids to see up close as they trick or treat, and the YMCA haunted bus and playground will run from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Concord. More info: intownconcord.org/events/halloween-howl.
Nov. 6
OCTOBERFEST AT PATS PEAK
Join the fun at the annual Octoberfest celebration at Pats Peak with live music from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with King Ludwig’s Bavarian Band, an authentic German Omm-Pa-Pa-Band. Octoberfest also features a German food fest, Harpoon German beer garden, German beer stein sale, sing-a-longs and Kids’ Activities. Chair Lift Rides will be available for $5 per ride (weather permitting). There will also be a bike tent sale, woodsmen show and a NH cowboy mounted shooting demo. Cost: Free admission. Location: Pat’s Peak, 686 Flanders Road, Henniker. More info: patspeak.com.
Nov. 11
NEW ENGLAND CRAFT & SPECIALTY FOOD FAIR
The 21st Annual New England Craft & Specialty Food Fair will be held indoors at the Rockingham Park Racetrack on Nov. 11-13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. More than 250 of the regions finest craftspeople and artisans will display and sell their crafts. A food sampling extravaganza will be presented with gourmet delights. Cost: $7, children 14 and under free. Location: 79 Rockingham Park Blvd., Salem. More info: castleberryfairs.com.
