As summer winds down, New Hampshire’s event calendar heats up with a variety of festivals and gatherings that showcase the state’s rich cultural diversity, love for food, and passion for unique experiences. Here are nine events you won’t want to miss this September:
1. Exeter UFO Festival
Date: August 31 - September 2, 2024
Location: Exeter, NH
Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience at the Exeter UFO Festival. This quirky event brings together UFO enthusiasts, researchers, and the curious for two days of lectures, discussions, and family-friendly activities. The festival also supports local children’s charities, making it fun for a good cause.
2. Hampton Beach Seafood Festival
Date: September 6-8, 2024
Location: Hampton Beach, NH
One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival is a seafood lover’s paradise. This three-day event features over 50 of the Seacoast’s top restaurants serving up their best seafood dishes, alongside arts and crafts, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display. Don’t miss the lobster rolls!
3. Auburn Duck Race
Date: September 14, 2024
Location: Auburn, NH
Celebrate community spirit at Auburn Day, which includes the 31st Annual Duck Race. This quaint event in my home-town features live music, food vendors, and the ever-popular duck race, where thousands of rubber ducks are released into the stream, with the fastest duck winning its owner a prize. It’s a day of fun!
4. NH Highland Games & Festival
Date: September 20-22, 2024
Location: Loon Mountain Resort, Lincoln, NH
Experience the rich heritage of Scotland at the NH Highland Games & Festival, one of the largest and most diverse Scottish gatherings in North America. The event features traditional Highland games, bagpipe bands, Scottish dancing, and authentic cuisine. Whether you have Scottish roots or just want to enjoy the spectacle, this festival is a must-see.
5. Manchester Brewfest
Date: September 21, 2024
Location: Arms Park, Manchester, NH
Beer enthusiasts, rejoice! The Manchester Brewfest returns this September, bringing together craft breweries from across the region. Attendees can sample a wide variety of beers, enjoy live music, and indulge in delicious food truck offerings. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun afternoon out, this event is sure to please.
6. Granite State Comic Con
Date: September 21-22, 2024
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Downtown, Manchester, NH
Calling all comic book fans, cosplayers, and pop culture enthusiasts! Granite State Comic Con is the place to be for fans of comics, movies, TV shows, and games. The event includes celebrity guests, panel discussions, cosplay contests, and a wide variety of vendors. It’s a great opportunity to geek out with fellow fans.
7. Concord Multicultural Festival
Date: September 22, 2024
Location: Keach Park, Concord, NH
The Concord Multicultural Festival is a vibrant celebration of the cultural diversity that enriches New Hampshire. With performances, food, art, and crafts from around the world, this event offers a fantastic opportunity to experience global cultures without leaving the state. The festival is family-friendly, with activities for all ages.
8. Lakes Region Dragon Boat Festival
Date: September 22, 2024
Location: Weirs Beach, Laconia, NH
The Lakes Region Dragon Boat Festival is a colorful and exciting event that brings the tradition of dragon boat racing to New Hampshire. Teams of paddlers compete in beautifully decorated dragon boats on Lake Winnipesaukee, with plenty of activities and food vendors onshore to keep spectators entertained.
9. Drive A Supercar at New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Date: September 26-29, 2024
Location: New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH
For those with a need for speed, the Xtreme Xperience at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is an adrenaline-pumping event. Participants can get behind the wheel of some of the world’s most exotic cars, including Ferraris and Lamborghinis, and take them for a spin on a real race track. It’s the ultimate thrill for car enthusiasts.
September in New Hampshire has something special in store for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready to explore all that the Granite State has to offer!