Best New Hampshire Summer Events in 2023

From a seafood extravaganza to the country’s biggest motorcycle rally, these 2023 New Hampshire summer events offer something for everyone. Read on to see our picks, then tell us YOUR picks for the best New Hampshire summer events in the comments.

June 10-18th | Laconia Motorcycle Week, Laconia

The largest motorcycle rally in the U.S. — and reportedly the oldest in the world — comes roaring to life for its 100th anniversary in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region for nine days in June. The New Hampshire Motor Speedway plays host to the racing action, while Lakeside Avenue in Laconia is the traditional hot spot for the street scene. Charity rides and events, swap meets, fireworks, and live music are all on tap.

June 13th | Market Square Day, Portsmouth

The streets of downtown Portsmouth fill with locals and visitors alike for this celebration of the city’s renovation and beautification efforts. Expect live tunes from musical acts on two performance stages, and about 170 booths featuring artists, craftspeople, nonprofits, downtown and Seacoast-area merchants and restaurants. 

June 15-17th | Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic, Hampton

Watch as 200 tons of imported sand is transformed into monumental works of art by the participants in this venerable invitation-only competition — and even take a free tutorial on how to do it yourself. At night the sculptures are lighted for viewing, turning Hampton Beach into a magical oceanside art gallery. Rounding things off is a fireworks show on closing night.

July 15th | American Independence Festival, Exeter

View a rare original printing of the Declaration of Independence, listen to a dramatic reading at the American Independence Museum, then step to the beat of fife and drum while enjoying an arts and crafts sale, kids’ activities, tasty food, and more.

August 5-13th | League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair, Newbury

Showcasing the talents of more than 300 juried artisans, this annual event at the Mount Sunapee Resort represents a wonderful chance to peruse and buy — but also to learn and make, thanks to all the demonstrations, do-it-yourself workshops, and lunchtime education sessions. Along with the dozens of craft booths, there will be special exhibits on artisan clothing and jewelry and on decorating your home with handcrafts, plus a sculpture garden. 

August 18-20th | White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues Festival, Thornton

The largest outdoor blues festival in New Hampshire takes place in the heart of the White Mountains, in a natural amphitheater amid a 72-acre pasture. Along with a lineup of award-winning blues artists, there’s also a climbing wall, food and craft vendors, and Saturday night fireworks.

August 26th | North Country Moose Festival, Colebrook

Pay homage to the giants of the northern forest with a moose-calling contest, maple syrup tastings, moose chili, a barn dance, and horse-drawn wagon rides.

August 26-27th | Lakes Region Fine Arts & Crafts Festival, Meredith

This juried outdoor festival on the shores of beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee is filled with works by more than 80 artists and craftspeople, displayed among the Meredith Village Shops and the Mill Falls Marketplace. Enjoy live music, demonstrations, and food offerings.

September 8-10th | Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, Hampton

Miles of Hampton Beach’s main drag, Ocean Boulevard, are closed to traffic for this event, creating a lively pedestrian mall bordered by beautiful ocean views. There’s plenty to do and see, but food is definitely the star here, with fried clams, lobster, shrimp, and more taking center stage. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks show on Saturday night.