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6 things to do this weekend in NH

New Hampshire is packed with festive ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re shopping local, dancing the night away, or strolling through historic neighborhoods by candlelight, here are some top things to do in New Hampshire this weekend.

Santa Claus (Konrad Kane) of Concord has been ho-ho-hoing for more than 50 years. Photo by Stacy Milbouer

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New Hampshire is packed with festive ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re shopping local, dancing the night away, or strolling through historic neighborhoods by candlelight, here are some top things to do in New Hampshire this weekend.

🎄 Yule Festival & Artisans Fair
Nashua — Sat., Dec. 20
Holiday artisans market and Yule-themed activities at the Nashua Sheraton. Fundraiser benefiting children with special needs supported by the Bartlett School & Assessment Center. Admission is a small gift or $2–$20 donation placed under the Giving Tree.
More info

🎷 Keene Jazz Orchestra Holiday Swing Dance
Keene — Sat., Dec. 20
Holiday swing dance featuring the 18-piece Keene Jazz Orchestra with vocalist Bella Holtz, performing music by Count Basie, Glenn Miller, and Benny Goodman. Held in the renovated ballroom at the Best Western Plus in Keene. Bar and limited food service available. Tickets: $15 adults, $12 students.
More info

🎨 Lebanon Art & Crafts Association 53rd Annual Christmas Show & Sale
West Lebanon — Nov. 10–Dec. 24
Shop handmade gifts from local artisans at the Upper Valley Plaza (between The Paper Store and Famous Footwear). Open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m., with late hours Thursday and Friday until 8 p.m.
More info

🎅 Christmas in Wolfeboro
Wolfeboro — Nov. 29–Dec. 24
Kick off the season with a toy drive, festive parade, community tree lighting, and a Christmas carol sing-along at First Congregational Church. Santa’s Hut is open through Christmas Eve.
More info

Holidays at the Estate
Concord — Nov. 29–Dec. 19
Kimball Jenkins hosts its first-ever seasonal celebration with illuminated grounds, gingerbread displays, artisan shopping, live performances, workshops, Santa visits, and more. Family-friendly, mostly free.
More info

🕯️ Candlelight Stroll
Portsmouth — Dec. 19–21
Step into 350+ years of holiday traditions in the Puddle Dock neighborhood. Enjoy decorated historic houses, costumed role players, wandering musicians, hot cider, a bonfire, and Ice Dance International’s Vintage Christmas Skaters (weather permitting).
More info