Concord is pretty old. Two years ago, the city celebrated 250 years, which means that there’s a lot of history around this city.
So it only seems right that a historical and cultural aspect was part of the first and only Capital Arts Fest.
So if you’re into history, learning about new things or enjoying free and new stuff, you’ll want to keep reading about some informative guided tours.
State House
If you’ve never had the chance to wander around the State House, you’re missing out.
We understand that it’s hard to fit in a visit if you work a typical 9-to-5 job, because the famous building with the shiny gold dome is only open on weekdays.
But on Saturday, there will be free guided tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
That means you can see the Hall of Flags, enjoy all the old paintings and see the House Gallery and Senate Chamber, although no decisions will be made on this day – at least that we’re aware of.
Capitol Center
At 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., there will be free guided tours of the Capitol Center for the Arts and the Benjamin Kimball House.
The 30- to 45-minute tours will take you through the backstage and dressing room areas, the Chubb Theatre stage and other support areas rarely seen by the general public. The tour will also include a walk-through of the 19th-century Victorian mansion.
Downtown walking
Do you often wonder about the history of Concord?
Well, meet at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for a half-hour guided tour to learn how New Hampshire’s capital grew into the thriving heart of political, cultural and community life for the state.
Historical Society
Enjoy the exhibitions on display at the New Hampshire Historical Society with free guided tours every half hour from 2 to 5 p.m.
Find out about New Hampshire’s “Temple of History” and hear stories about the objects on display that make their history come alive.
St. Paul’s Church
Learn about 200 years of St. Paul’s Church with tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and help celebrate its bicentennial this year.
Others
Join author and writing instructor Joni Cole as she reads from her new book Good Naked: Reflections on How to Write More, Write Better and Be Happier at Gibson’s Bookstore at 2 p.m. The reading will be followed by an interactive workshop that will invite you to write from a prompt and see what happens.
Red River Theatres and Double Midnight Comics will be celebrating Free Comic Book Day with giveaways and local authors – and, as always, costumes are encouraged.
A few months back, we told you about the Big Bicycle Project, which will feature works of art created with old bicycles and parts. And now it’s finally here, so make sure to check it all out during your travels.
The folks from the Abbot-Downing Historical Society will be on hand at City Plaza with a Concord Coach display from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Because you can’t celebrate Concord without a Concord Coach.
Insider staff
