Top 10 New Hampshire Events of 2016 | Spring and Summer Fun

Looking for fun things to do in New Hampshire this summer? Our list of the top 10 New Hampshire events for spring and summer 2016 is here to help!

From history and brews to sandcastles and handmade crafts, our list of the Top 10 New Hampshire events of 2016 has something for everyone. Read on to see our picks, then share any we missed in the comments!

MAY 11, 16: PORTSMOUTH, Writers on a New England Stage. Best-selling authors Lesley Stahl and Joe Hill headline a pair of events in this popular series at The Music Hall. They’ll read from their latest books and will be interviewed, live on stage, by New Hampshire Public Radio host Virginia Prescott. 603-436-2400; themusichall.org

MAY 14–15: DEERFIELD, 40th Sheep & Wool Festival. The Fairground hosts shearing, knitting, and weaving demonstrations, sheep and breed shows, more than 100 fiber-related vendors, and more. 603-895-2233; nhswga.org

MAY 29: JACKSON, Wildquack Duck River Festival. Put your money on one of 3,500 rubber duckies floating downriver in a race to the finish line! A children’s duck parade, a silent auction, a bake sale, pony rides, a “Cake Boss” competition, an obstacle course, and other activities round out the fun at Jackson Village Park. 603-383-9356; jacksonnh.com

JUNE 4–5: CHARLESTOWN, French & Indian War Encampment. The sights and sounds of the French & Indian War come alive at The Fort at No. 4. Visit French, British, and Native camps, observe mock battles and military drills, and watch blacksmithing, spinning, and cooking demonstrations. 603-826-5700; fortat4.org

JUNE 16–18: HAMPTON, Master Sand Sculpting Competition. What do you get when 15 world-class sculptors put their creativity to the test on Hampton Beach? The results are wildly different each year, so you’ll just have to see for yourself. For a real treat, stay late and enjoy these massive works illuminated after dark. 603-548-6002; hamptonbeach.org

JUNE 17–19: MERRIMACK, Rock’n Ribfest. Excellent BBQ is best enjoyed in an atmosphere of live music and entertainment, and that’s just how it’s served up on the grounds of the Anheuser–Busch facility. Proceeds support area nonprofits. ribfestnh.com

JUNE 22: PORTSMOUTH, Taste of the Nation. Eat well, and for a good cause, as more than 70 restaurants come together beneath big-top tents at Strawbery Banke Museum for a celebration of the Seacoast’s best food and drink. This benefit for Share Our Strength’s “No Kid Hungry” campaign also includes a silent auction, a VIP lounge, and dance music.ce.nokidhungry.org

JUNE 24–26: LINCOLN, New England Brewfest: Ultimate Craft Beer Weekend. Tap into more than 100 exceptional brews supplied by the 30 beermakers on hand at Loon Mountain Resort, Mountain Club on Loon, and other sites around Lincoln. Enjoy live entertainment, presentations, delicious foods, and plenty of exhibits offering brew paraphernalia and souvenirs. 603-745-6621; nebrewfest.com

AUG. 6–14: NEWBURY, 83rd League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair. Mount Sunapee Resort hosts fantastic works by juried league members in more than 200 exhibits, plus demonstrations, interactive activities, music, and a variety of food vendors. 603-224-3375; nhcrafts.org

AUG. 19–21: NORTH THORNTON, White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues Festival. The state’s largest outdoor blues festival celebrates its 20th year at Sugar Shack Campground with award-winning performers, food and craft vendors, kids’ activities, a rock-climbing wall, and Saturday-night fireworks. 603-726-3867; whitemountainboogie.com