Everywhere you look, trees blooming with tiny white and pink flowers stand tall next to ones that have already gained back their green hue. Alongside tulips and dandelions popping up in fresh grass, nature is cloaking Concord with a picturesque spring image.
Temperatures in the area will only grow in the coming weeks as summer makes its introduction, but there are plenty of events happening around the area that will take your mind off the heat to focus on the fun.
Here are four events to look forward to this summer:
Market Days: June 25 – June 27
Market Days, hosted by InTown Concord, is returning to downtown Concord for its 52nd year. Each year, the festival attracts more than 150 vendors selling clothes, jewelry, food and more along most of Main Street. The festival also features several free activities for children and their parents.
The festival hosts two main stages on South Main Street and Bicentennial Square that will feature several local and national musical acts. Down in the State House lawn, the beer tent and Eagle Square will be other performances for adults and children alike.
The festival is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. all three days. Entry to the festival is free with food and drink to purchase at various vendors.
Fourth of July Celebration: July 4
This Fourth of July celebration will be a special one, as it marks America’s 250th and Concord’s 300th anniversary.
The day starts bright and early on Saturday, with the annual parade on Main Street beginning at 9 a.m. An hour later, live performances and family-friendly activities will be hosted on the State House Lawn.
The New Hampshire Historical Society will have an open house starting at 11 a.m., allowing the public to view its archives during this monumental anniversary. Finally, the fireworks show will light up Concord’s skies around 9 p.m.
Check out the City of Concord’s website closer to the date as more information becomes available.
Suncook Valley Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally: July 31 – Aug. 2
Colorful balloons dot the sky around Pittsfield for the 44th annual Hot Air Balloon Rally this year. The first event kicks off in the final hours of July, with several balloons lit burning with bright light for the Night Glow at 8 p.m.
The weekend is packed with on-the-ground events, such as yoga sessions, a river raft regatta race, a craft fair and a 5K road race. Helicopter rides are offered at $75 per person at the Thyng Memorial on Barnstead Road. Balloons arrive early in the morning each day, but actual flight times depend on wind and weather, and may be subject to last-minute change.
Balloons and events will take place on Drake Field in Pittsfield. The event is free for all to attend, with food, drink and tethered balloon rides as separate costs. Free shuttle service is offered to attendees parked on Leavitt Road or Barnstead Road.
Sunflower Bloom Festival: Aug. 8 – 16
The largest sunflower field in New Hampshire is welcoming guests of all ages to come and experience the magic.
The festival at Sunfox Farm in Concord features live music, over 20 local craft vendors and food trucks to fulfill every craving. Professional photographers can take photos at no extra cost during the festival’s hours, but are also available after hours through prior booking.
The festival is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets for adults are $13, while children 10 and under are free. Guests may cut their own flowers for $2 per stem.
