Angie Lane is the executive director of Red River Theatres, a nonprofit independent cinema situated on Concord’s Main Street. Lane lived in Concord for nearly 20 years before moving to Manchester, but because of Red River, she still spends a lot of her time in the city.

“Concord continues to feel like home,” she said.

Learn more about Angie Lane’s favorite parts of life in the Granite State’s capital:

Around Concord: What do you like most about Concord?

Angie Lane: Concord has an amazing sense of community. It’s a smaller city that really
punches above its weight, from its vibrant Main Street and beautiful parks to its
festivals, independent shops, coffee shops and restaurants. All of these things
make Concord feel alive with creativity and energy. I also love that it’s the kind of
place where you’re always running into someone you know.

AC: What’s a new local place you’ve recently discovered?

AL: I recently visited the Eleventh Letter Writing Gallery on Main Street and met the
owner, Jocelynn Winn, and I can’t wait to go back!

AC: Any go-to stores for clothes or other fun things?

AL: There are so many! Penumbra is a favorite. The owners, Alison and Alyssa, are wonderful and always helpful when I’m choosing plants, especially since I haven’t always had the best track record keeping them alive! Gibson’s Bookstore is another favorite. It’s a wonderful independent bookstore with an amazing staff and cafe. 

The Concord Farmers Market is always great for local produce and other great
local products. But let’s be honest, it’s also an excellent place to see lots of dogs
out with their humans!

Coffee & Cars is a newer seasonal event to Main Street. I’m not necessarily a car
enthusiast, but you don’t have to be to enjoy it. There are antique cars, sports
cars, and all kinds of rare and unusual vehicles. It’s free and a great reason to
head downtown on a Sunday morning.

AC: What’s your favorite Concord event?

AL: It has to be Intown Concord’s Market Days Festival. It’s a Concord classic, and
I’ve loved watching it grow and evolve over the years. Between the live music,
food trucks, shopping and community atmosphere, there’s always something
happening. It’s also one of those events where you’re guaranteed to run into
people you know, which I love!

AC: Where’s your favorite local outdoor spot? 

AL: I love all the trails in Concord and walked them often during the pandemic. We
are SO lucky to live in a city where you can be in the forest in minutes. The
Marjorie Swope Park Trails are a favorite.

AC: What do you want to see more of in or around Concord?

AL: I love Concord and have loved seeing it grow and evolve over the years,
welcoming new people to the city each year. As Concord continues to grow, I
hope we’ll keep supporting independent businesses, expanding community
events, and embracing new ideas that add to the creativity and energy that make
our city so special. 

AC: Anything Else to add?

AL: I say this a lot, especially if I am talking about how special Red River Theatres is,
but if aliens were to come to Concord and scan our city for “proof of life,” they
would find an indie movie theatre, an indie bookstore and an indie music store