New England may be at its most serene during the summer. People are constantly outdoors; precipitation is rare and school is non-existent.
Contrary to stereotypes that label New Hampshire as a boring state, there are many destination-worthy places to visit and great events to attend in the granite state during the summer months. The next time you have a day off and are in need of something to do, check out one of these options.
Portsmouth is absolutely buzzing in the summer. This picturesque seacoast town of 21,000 boasts a plethora of unique restaurants, shops and events. The town’s annual Market Square Day takes place on the second Saturday of June and features over a hundred artists, merchants and small businesses that pack into Portsmouth’s downtown area. Live music, a 10k race and food vendors are a give-in.
Another standout is the Prescott Park Arts Festival, a summer-long event featuring live music, theater performances, dance and art in a gorgeous outdoor venue. Visit prescottpark.org for more information regarding dates.
Nearby Rye, NH is a beautiful coastal town home to Odiorne Point State Park. A variety of trails traverse the park and sweeping ocean views are a give-in. A variety of beaches, such as the Wallis-Sands beach and Jenness State Beach, are available for anyone wanting to lay out a towel and relax for the day.
Concert-fanatics can flock to the Bank of New Hampshire Pavillion in Gilford, NH. From May 24 to September 14, numerous musicians and bands will be taking the stage for the venue’s Eastern Propane & Oil Concert Series. Acts scheduled to perform include Zac Brown Band, Snoop Dogg, Pentatonix and Beck, among many others.
The amphitheater is located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and seats 9,000 people. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.banknhpavilion.com/.
Food Truck Festivals have become obsessively popular in recent years, and a few are occurring across New Hampshire. On Sunday, June 23, the third annual Amherst, NH Food Truck Festival will take place at the Amherst Garden Center and Farm to Market. Tickets are $5 in advance or $10 at the door. Portsmouth is also holding a festival, this one being held on August 18 at Cisco Brewers. Well over a dozen trucks will be featured and a selection of craft beers are to be available for purchase.
Summer obligations prevent many students from taking an actual vacation, but New Hampshire residents can still enjoy themselves without leaving home. Whether you’re an avid concert-goer, outdoor enthusiast or serious foodie, there are worthwhile destinations within the granite state to fulfill fun summer adventures.
