JUNE
June 19
Food and Thought Pot Luck at Walpole Valley Farms
Come down to the farm for a family potluck dinner and local food discussion on the grounds of Walpole Valley Farms. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings while engaging in thoughtful discussion. Topics are spontaneous but focus on local food and health. Bring a plate, utensils, cup, napkin, and a dish to share. Free Walpole Creamery ice cream provided. Held rain or shine. 6 p.m. Free. Where: 663 Wentworth Road, Walpole. Info: 756-2805, walpolevalleyfarms.com.
Darby Field and the “First” Ascent of Mount Washington
For more than 200 years, historians believed that Darby Field made the first climb up Mount Washington in 1642. However, in the last several decades, questions have emerged about his use of Native American guides, about the likelihood of prior ascents by Native Americans, and about whether Field actually made the ascent as claimed. Allen Koop examines how historians reconstruct the “truth” when given scant, vague, and even contradictory evidence. 7 p.m. Free. Where: 35 Railroad St., Gorham. Info: 466-2525, nhhc.org/calendar.php.
June 20
New Hampshire’s One-Room Rural Schools: The Romance and the Reality
Hundreds of one-room schools dotted the landscape of New Hampshire a century ago and were the backbone of primary education for generations of children. Revered in literature and lore, they actually were beset with problems, some of which are little changed today.
The greatest issue was financing the local school and the vast differences between taxing districts in ability to support education. Other concerns included teacher preparation and quality, curriculum, discipline, student achievement and community involvement in the educational process.
Steve Taylor explores the lasting legacies of the one-room school and how they echo today. Hosted by the Andover Historical Society. 7 p.m. Free. Where: Corner of Chase Hill Road and Route 11 Andover. Info: 735-5369,
nhhc.org/calendar.php.
Make a White Pine
Bark Berry Basket
Make a bark berry basket with artist Jennifer Lee (Narragansett & Pequot ancestry). Dress to get dirty and stained, bring old scissors and a lunch. Materials provided. 10 a.m. Event Fee: $35 members, $50 non-members. Where: 18 Highlawn Rd., Warner. Info: 456-2600, indianmuseum.org.
Alpine Garden Exploration:
A Mountain in Bloom
Join us and discover the world of tiny delicate flowers, hardy plants and remarkable wildlife that survive in a harsh and unpredictable climate. Package includes lodging, meals, instruction, transportation and a copy of AMC Field Guide to New England Alpine Summits. Instruction-only package is available. 9 a.m. Event fee: Contact for details. Where: 361 Route 16, Gorham. Info: 466-2721,
outdoors.org/summerguide.
The New England Town
Jere Daniell, Dartmouth College, explores the history of the New England town in general and of Cornish in particular. This program is presented in conjunction with Cornish’s 250th Anniversary and hosted by George H. Stowell Free Library. Free. 7 p.m. Where: 833 Route 12A, Cornish. Info: 709-7099, nhhc.org/calendar.php.
June 22
New Hampshire Dairy Day
Learn all about cows and dairy goats and taste the best of New Hampshire’s dairy products. Help churn the cream into butter and learn to make a soft cheese. Take barn and farmhouse tours, and help with the hay harvest. Free ice cream served from noon until it runs out! Event Fee: $7 adult, $4 child 4-17 yrs, museum members free. Where: White Mountain Highway/Route 125, Milton. Info: 652-7840, farmmuseum.org
The Nature of Lake Sunapee by Canoe or Kayak: A Guided Tour
Your perspective on nature changes dramatically when viewed from the seat of a canoe or kayak. Dip your paddle into the beautiful waters of Lake Sunapee and explore the nature of the lake and shoreline, including bird life, botany and lake ecology. 10 a.m. Event Fee: Adults $10, children $5. Where: 456 Route 103A, Newbury. Info: 763-4789, thefells.org.
Music in my Pockets:
Family Fun in Folk Music
Singing games, accessible “pocket instruments” like spoons and dancing puppets, tall tales, funny songs, old songs and songs kids teach each other in the playground are all traditional in that they have been passed down the generations by word of mouth. They will all be seen, heard and learned as Jeff Warner visits 1850 or 1910 in a New England town, with families gathered around the figurative hearth, participating in timeless, hearty entertainment and, almost without the audience knowing it, teaches how America amused itself before electricity. 7 p.m. Where: 41 Main St., Ashland. Info: 968-7928, nhhc.org/calendar.php.
Annual Blessing of the Motorcycles
Join thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts as they line up at Our Lady of Grace Shrine in Columbia to have their bikes blessed. There will be plenty of vendors and food on hand for everyone to enjoy. Helicopter rides. Live music. Pancake breakfast. Event Fee: By donation. Where: Shrine of Our Lady of Grace, Route 3, Columbia. Info: 800-698-8939, northcountrychamber.org.
June 27
Muslim Journeys Book Discussion Minaret by Leila Aboulela
Participants will read and discuss Field’s novel about Edith Wharton’s life in Paris in preparation for Keene Chautauqua 2013: Edith Wharton and Henry James, A Literary Friendship living history event on June 27. Hosted by the Keene Public Library. Free. 7 p.m. Where: 2 Concord St., Peterborough. Info: 924-8040, nhhc.org/calendar.php.
The Old Man of the Mountain: Substance and Symbol
The story of the Old Man of the Mountain in Franconia Notch is a story of New Hampshire itself, reflecting history, the arts, literature, geography, philosophy and public policy. Maggie Stier’s illustrated talk reveals the ways that this iconic place has sparked observers’ imaginations, attracted intense personal commitment, and symbolized changing public sentiment. Stier details the threats to the Old Man and Franconia Notch that led to protection as a State Park and, later, to the construction of the Franconia Notch Parkway. She concludes with an analysis of what caused the fall of the Old Man in 2003, a summary of private efforts to create a memorial, and a discussion of how this unique natural phenomenon may be remembered by future generations.
The audience is invited to bring souvenirs, memorabilia or other artifacts of the Old Man of the Mountain for a shared display before and after the program, and to share their own experiences and memories on this topic. Free. 7 p.m. Where: 1895 Village Road, Madison. Info: 367-8758, nhhc.org/calendar.php.
Brewing in New Hampshire:
An Informal History of Beer
in the Granite State
Glenn Knoblock explores the fascinating history of New Hampshire’s beer and ale brewing industry from Colonial days, when it was home- and tavern-based, to today’s modern breweries and brew pubs. Unusual and rare photos and advertisements document this changing industry and the state’s earliest brewers, including the renowned Frank Jones. A number of lesser-known brewers and breweries that operated in the state are also discussed, including the only brewery owned and operated by a woman before the modern era. Illustrations present evidence of society’s changing attitudes towards beer and alcohol consumption over the years. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or a “tea-totaler”, this lecture will be enjoyed by adults of all ages. Free. 6:30 p.m. Where: 31 Mount Saint Mary’s Way, Hooksett. Info: 485-4951, nhhc.org/calendar.php.
June 28
Summer Splash
The very popular annual event, Summer Splash, returns to Whale’s Tale Waterpark in Lincoln, New Hampshire on June 28. During Summer Splash, you can experience it all for almost half off the price of a regular admission when you buy your tickets in advance! Plus, you get some amazing live entertainment on the wave side stage, great games, contests and prizes. Event Fee: Varies, see website for tickets. Where: Whale’s Tale Waterpark, Lincoln. Info: 745-6621, lincolnwoodstock.com.
Women’s Outdoor
Skills Weekend
This weekend is designed for active adult women seeking to learn new outdoor skills and enjoy some great hiking among good company in Crawford Notch. Participants will learn essential skills such as: hiking safety including above treeline, map & compass, Leave No Trace, camp cooking, and basic first aid skills. Event Fee: Contact for details. Where: Highland Center at Crawford Notch, Rt. 302, Bretton Woods. Info: 466-2727, outdoors.org/summerguide.
Wee Wanderers:
Family Explorations
The perfect 3-day program for you and your little ones to explore the outdoors! Designed for families with 3-5 year old kids, Wee Wanderers will tap into and encourage the national curiosity of young children as you explore the natural world around Cardigan Lodge. Event Fee: Contact for details. Where: 774 Shem Valley Road, Alexandria. Info: 466-2727, outdoors.org/summerguide.
CAMP-N-JAM V
25+ bands, 3 days, 2 stages of music and so much more. The fifth annual Camp-N-Jam is a family-friendly event that features a showcase of amazing local musicians and amazing musicians loved by locals, “bottomless” beer, camping, midnight movie, vendors, community art project, disc golf, late night music and more. Bands include Kung Fu, Zach Deputy, The Jauntee, Ghost Dinner Band, Juliana Cable, Rachel Vogelzang, the 1,2,3s, Run Gazelle Run and many more. Event fee: See website for ticketing information. Where: 805 Rte 103, Warner. Info: golocalmusic.org.
June 29
New England Brewfest
30 breweries from all over New England gather on June 29 at the Lincoln Village Shops on Main Street in Lincoln to offer up over 100 different beers to sample. Along with tasting, there’s live entertainment, various beer-related vendors, and homebrewing demonstrations. 4 p.m. Event Fee: Various, see website for more details. Where: 25 South Mountain Drive, Lincoln. Info: 745-6621, nebrewfest.com.
Kayak & Canoe Paddle
This moderate trip can offer a challenge but one worth taking. Starting in the urban historical factory section of Manchester, class II rapids may be encountered before you enter a more remote section which passes a lock that has survived from the Old Middlesex Canal System. Bring your own boat, paddles, PFD, and dry clothes in a waterproof bag — just in case. Free. 9 a.m. Where: Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center, 4 Fletcher St., Manchester. Info: souheganriver.org , 883-3409.
June 30
GrayMist Fiddle Fest
Professional and amateur fiddlers with professional band. Rain or shine. Paul Amey along with the Back Shed String Band/Uncommon Folk will headline entertainment. They will combine their multiple instruments & harmonies mixed with bluegrass, original tunes, classic Country, old-time & folk music. Bring blanket, umbrella, Frisbee, fiddle, family, friend. There will be vendors selling food, crafts, t-shirts & much more, Event Fee: Adults $8, Children $4. Kids under 3 free. Where: GrayMist Farm, 317 Brown Road, Groveton. Info: graymistfiddlefest.com.
JULY
July 1
2, 3, 4 or 5 Day Rally School
A 2, 3, 4 or even 5-Day Rally Driving School for world-class driving instruction in accident avoidance, car control & left-foot braking techniques. Owner Tim O’Neil is a 5 time winner of U.S. and North American Rally Championships and has been teaching driving instruction since 1997 when he opened Team O’Neil Rally School. Call to pre-register and for more information. All vehicles and safety gear provided. Event Fee: 2 Day $1,897 3 Day $3,392 4 Day $4,772 5 Day $5,750. Where: 178 Miller Road, Dalton. Info: 444-4488, teamoneil.com.
July 3
Family Party Cruise
Children 12 and under cruise free aboard the M/S Mount Washington Wednesday evenings. Bring the whole family for a fun evening of dancing and dining on Lake Winnipesaukee. Special entertainment and dancing for children is provided. A great time for all. Buffet dinner is included in the cruise price. Event Fee: Adult $45, kids under 13 free (Limits apply), youth 13–16 $35. Where: M/S Mount Washington, Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, Info: 366-5531, cruiseNH.com.
July 6
Family Fun Day
Join the Lincoln Fire Department at noon for fire engine rides and a fireman’s muster. Kids will compete in various drills, including some that use the fire hose! This event is completely free and open to the public, so come on down and enjoy. Climbing wall, zip line, Euro-bungee, aerial forest adventure park, and more. Where: 60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln. Info: 745-8111, loonmtn.com.
Newton’s Revenge
The race is contested on the same exact course as the original Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb, making Newton’s Revenge the other Toughest Hillclimb in the World. Weather date is July 7. 8 a.m. Event Fee: See website for details. Where: Rt. 16, Pinkham Notch, Gorham. Info: 466-3988, newtonsrevenge.com.
Barn Dance at the Squam
Lakes Association
Don’t miss the SLA’s first barn dance of the 2013 season. All ages are welcome! This is the first of four barn dances to take place at the barn this summer. Come to dance or just listen to some good local music. Byron Ricker will call the dance and traditional folk musicians Davis Hill Duo will provide the music. 7:30 p.m. Where: Fisher Family Barn, 534 Route 3, Holderness. Info: 968-7336, squamlakes.org.
July 9
Garden Series:
Scents in the Garden
An educational guided tour of Tarbin Gardens with emphasis on plants with fragrance. Tours last approximately one hour but you can stay for the rest of the day. Bring a picnic lunch or treat yourself to an authentic English Cream Tea served in the Rose Garden Patio 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. (tea price $7.50). The gardens are open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Event Fee: Adults $8.50, Seniors, Children and Students $7.00. Group rates are available on request. Where: 321 Salisbury Road (Route 127 South), Franklin. Info: 934-3518, tarbingardens.com.
July 6
A New Look at
New England Icons
Church steeples, lobster boats, saltbox houses, and stone walls are just some of the elements that have become synonymous with New England. Spend an evening with Bruce Irving, former producer of This Old House and author of New England Icons, as he offers a fresh take on the familiar features that define the New England landscape.
Registration is required; use web link. 6 p.m. Event Fee: $6 HNE members, $12 non-members. Where: 143 Pleasant St., Portsmouth. Info: 436-3205, shop.historicnewengland.org/p-7814-a-new-look-at-new-england-icons.aspx.
July 12
Miss Winni Pageant
The area’s most talented and lovely young women vie for the coveted Miss Winni Title. Winners go on to compete for Miss New Hampshire. Free. 6:30 p.m. Where: 719 Cherry Valley Road, Gilford. Info: 387-0271, gunstock.com/events/events/48.
Day Out With Thomas
Join Thomas the Tank Engine, everyone’s #1 engine, as he greets friends of all ages. Ride a train led by Thomas and meet Sir Topham Hatt. Enjoy storytelling, live music, unlimited motorcar rides, a fabulous Imagination Station organized and staffed by the Mt. Washington Valley Children’s Museum, engine tours, mini golf, bouncy houses, and more. For more information, please our website. This is a day the whole family will enjoy! Event Fee: $18 ages 2 and up. Where: 38 Norcross Circle, North Conway. Info: 356-5251, conwayscenic.com.
July 14
New Hampshire 300
The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series returns to New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the 21st consecutive year on July 14. 1 p.m. Where: 1122 New Hampshire 106, Loudon. Info: 783-4744, nhms.org.
July 18
Hillsborough Balloon Festival
Come see the hot air balloons piloted and crewed by regional balloon enthusiasts. Balloon flights over New Hampshire’s beautiful Monadnock Region are available to the general public along with tethered flights for the more cautious. Event Fee: Admission is free, parking is $5. Four-day event. Henniker Street, Hillsborough. Info: balloonfestival.org.
July 21
Operation: Thank You!
Once a year, the Meat House and Red Hook Brewery throw a huge bash with over three thousand of their closest fans and friends to celebrate and thank the military!
In addition to thanking all military, Operation: Thank you! is a celebration of food, fun, family and friends. Your ticket includes,
a cookout, done The Meat House way, ice cold Redhook beer on tap, live music, a kids corner with games and prizes and awesome raffle items. Event Fee: $15. Free for kids, active duty or currently serving military, Guard’s Reserve and veterans. Where: Redhook Brewery, 1 Redhook Way, Portsmouth. Info: operationthankyou.com.
July 24
North Haverhill Fair
A classic country fair. Horse, pony and oxen stone boat pulling events, demolition derby, tractor and 4×4 pulling events, dairy, horse, sheep, goat and dog shows, a lumberjack Contest and much more! Event Fee: $10 for adults, seniors are $5, children under 12 are free. Where: 1299 Dartmouth College Highway, Haverhill. Info: nohaverhillfair.com.
July 26
Jerry Jam
Jerry Jam began on the first anniversary of Jerry’s passing in August of 1996. A small group of friends gathered together to celebrate the life of Jerry Garcia, along with the music and vibe associated with the Grateful Dead. Since that first gathering of about thirty friends, Jerry Jam has grown to an annual attendance of over 2500 kind souls and several bands playing throughout the weekend. Event Fee: See website. Where: Dodge Farm, 81 Dodge Road, Bath. Info: jerryjam.com.
July 27
Canterbury Fair
Morris dancers, bakeoffs, music, animals and food – everything a county fair should be! Event Fee: Admission is free but there is a $5 parking donation fee. Where: Baptist Road in Canterbury. Info:canterburyfair.com.
July 31
Cheshire Fair
This year is the 75th anniversary of Cheshire Fair! Come celebrate the past and embrace the future. Traditional parade, daily shows and info booths about healthy living in today’s society – to focus on agriculture and New England’s heritage, new midway games and rides, animals and agriculture with demonstrations and seminars on how to do it yourself, local craftsman and businesses. Event Fee: $10 for adults, ages 5-11 are $5, seniors are $6 and children under 4 are free. Where: Monadnock Highway, Swanzey. Info: cheshirefair.com/fair.
AUGUST
August 2
The 2013 Pemi Valley
Bluegrass Festival
The Pemi Valley Bluegrass festival features the best in both national and regional Bluegrass bands. Come camp by the Pemigewasset River in the heart of the White Mountains and hear some of the best music ever! Event Fee; See website. Where: Sugar Shack Campground,Rte. 175, Thornton. Info: 744-0001, pemivalleybluegrass.com.
Historic Portsmouth
Legends & Ghosts Walk
This tour explores Portsmouth, New Hampshire’s fascinating and legendary past on a walking tour through historic neighborhoods. Tales of history, mysterious lore and ghost stories will be told by best selling local author, Roxie Zwicker. 6:30 p.m. Event Fee: $10 adults, $8 children 12 and under. Where: 2 Congress St., Market Square, Portsmouth. Info: 343-7977, newenglandcuriosities.com.
August 3
Child Survival: Teaching
Your Child to Survive
Getting Lost in the Woods
This program, for children in grades 2 – 4, will be conducted by Rudy Bourget and will be held rain or shine. Children must be accompanied by a parent; there is no charge for the parent. This program will teach your children skills that will reduce their chances of getting lost and increase the likelihood of being found safely. Includes a take-home personal “survival kit,” which is used during the program. Registration is required and is limited to 10/class. Event Fee: $20, nonmembers; $15, member. Where: Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, 18 Highlawn Road, Warner. Info: 746-6121, indianmuseum.org.
League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair
The League of NH Craftsmen’s Fair is 80 years old, and this year, there’s more to see and do than ever before!
Starting the first Saturday in August and running for nine days, The Fair showcases the work of some of the finest craftspeople in the country. Craft items are made by hand – here! Select handmade crafts by more than 350 craftspeople, daily craft demonstrations, workshops for all ages, tour with a Master, walk through the Sculpture Garden and enjoy creations for outdoor living, a variety of strolling performances, featuring oversized puppets, magicians, mind readers, musician, and much more! 10 a.m. Event Fee: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children. Where: Mount Sunapee Resort, Route 103 in Newbury. Info: nhcrafts.org.
August 9
Love Your Neighbor
Celebration at Keach Park
Soccer and other games, free BBQ, music and a multicultural dance party with DJ Franklyn Rosario. This event is sponsored by New American Africans and the Concord Love Your Neighbor Coalition. 4 p.m. Free. Where: Keach Park, Newton Avenue, Concord.
August 10
7th Annual Curious
George Festival
The 7th annual Curious George Cottage Family Festival will feature a weekend full of family-friendly activities including a banana pancake breakfast, family nature walk, planetarium shows, photo opportunities with Curious George, a petting zoo, live music, face painting, Curious George story hours, movie viewing, and more. Where: Waterville Valley Town Square, 6 Village Road, Waterville Valley. Info: 236-3308, waterville.com.
August 12
Hampton Beach
Children’s Festival
The Hampton Beach Children’s Festival returns Aug. 12 to 16 to delight the young and young at heart again. Magic shows, puppets, storytellers, contests and much more are just a prelude to the main event, a huge costume parade down Ocean Boulevard, to the Seashell Stage where everyone gets a prize! Free. Where: Hampton Beach, Ocean Boulevard, Hampton. Info: hamptonbeach.org/children-only.cfm.
August 16
Mahrajan
Mahrajan (mah – ra – jan) is the Arabic word for festival. On August 16-18, Our Lady of the Cedars Melkite Catholic Church welcomes the community to this annual celebration of Middle Eastern culture. Central to the festivities is the music and food of Lebanon and includes specialties like lamb, beef and chicken kabobs, falafel and tabbouleh and traditional Middle Eastern pastries.
Complete with Arabic music and dancing, a bazaar with icons, gifts, t-shirts, and much more. There will be games and activities for children and a petting area featuring Josh the Camel. DJ Kibar will entertain Friday evening and throughout the festival, and live music will be provided Saturday night and all day Sunday by Mitchell Kaltsunas and his band. Free. 5 p.m. Where: Our Lady of the Cedars Church, 140 Mitchell St., Manchester. Info: 623-8944.
SEPTEMBER
September 14
Fish and Lobster Festival
(NH Fishtival)
Walk the decks of a local fishing boat, taste freshly-landed local seafood prepared by Seacoast chefs, learn to identify and prepare local fish, watch an on-location Seafood Throwdown cook-off competition, investigate the Gulf of Maine ecosystem, sing a song and hear a tale or two. Along the historic waterfront in Prescott Park right beside the commercial fishing pier, it’s a great event for all ages with games, live music, demos, foul-weather gear, a fish relay race, trap building, fish printing, touch tanks, and so much more. Noon. Event Fee: Food sampling available for $4, admission is free. Where: Prescott Park, Marcy Street, Portsmouth. Info: prescottpark.org/fish.cfm.
