Category: Cover Stories

Downtown holiday Deliciously fun events for the holidays

Experience the tastiest of what the holidays have to offer in New Hampshire this season, with cookie tours, plated dinners, holiday shopping events and more.

• Averill House Vineyard (21 Averill Road, Brookline) will hold a snowman felting workshop and winter wine tasting on Thursday, Dec. 2, or Friday, Dec. 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. each evening. Tickets are $45 per person and include felting kits plus a seasonal flight of four wines (for 21+ participants) or a non-alcoholic beverage. Additional felting kits will be available for purchase at the end of the class. Visit averillhousevineyard.com.

• Backyard Brewery & Kitchen (1211 S. Mammoth Road, Manchester) will hold its third annual Backyard Winterfest on Friday, Dec. 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. The outdoor event brings together multiple craft breweries from the Derry, Londonderry and Manchester areas for a night of pouring. Tickets are $30 per person and include a 4-ounce tasting glass. Visit backyardbrewerynh.com.

• Holy Trinity Cathedral (166 Pearl St., Manchester) is taking orders for its annual Polish frozen food sale, featuring pierogi, kielbasa and a few other items. Pre-orders are preferred, for pickup on Saturday, Dec. 4, between 10 a.m. and noon. Visit holytrinitypncc.org.

• Join LaBelle Winery at its Amherst location (345 Route 101) for a holiday tea party and performance of The Nutcracker with Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also available for purchase will be several tea sandwiches, sweet treats and special Nutcracker-themed cocktails. Tickets are $25. Visit labellewinery.com.

• The Made in New England Expo returns to the DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown (700 Elm St., Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event features specialty food items and unique gifts from all over New England that will be available for sale. Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors over 65, $2 for kids ages 2 to 12 and free for kids under 2. Masks are required for all attendees. Visit businessnhmagazine.com.

• Zorvino Vineyards (226 Main St., Sandown) will hold a holiday sip and shop event on Sunday, Dec. 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring the opportunity to discover unique gift ideas from local vendors. Admission is free, and ticket holders who book their spot online will receive a 10 percent off coupon for use in the winery. Visit zorvino.com.

• Join the Nashua Public Library in welcoming Chef Liz Barbour of The Creative Feast in Hollis, for a virtual event on savory pies and tarts on Monday, Dec. 6, from 7 to 8 p.m. Barbour will demonstrate her favorite pie dough recipe and prepare a meat pie and a seasonal vegetable tart. Visit nashualibrary.org to register and receive a Zoom invitation link.

• St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church (1160 Bridge St., Manchester) is offering a takeout only baked lamb dinner, also featuring Greek-style green beans, rice and salad. Dinners must be pre-ordered no later than Dec. 7, with pickups at the church on Sunday, Dec. 12, beginning at noon. Contact Barbara George at 623-6115 or at [email protected] to reserve your dinner.

• Get your tickets now for the annual Feast of the Seven Fishes happening at the Bedford Village Inn (2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford) on Wednesday, Dec. 8, at 6 p.m. The dinner will feature a wide variety of hot seafood options to choose from, like fra diavolo, haddock puttanesca, and lobster and crab-stuffed sole, in addition to a chef-attended pasta station with accompanying sauces, and an Italian dessert station. Tickets are $95 per person (event is 21+ only) and reservations are required. Visit bedfordvillageinn.com.

• LaBelle Winery is hosting a holiday-themed cooking with wine class at its Amherst location (345 Route 101) on Wednesday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants will learn how to cook a variety of holiday-themed dishes and get to take home recipe cards for each featured item, which will include cranberry punch, bacon pecan cheese logs, herb roasted potatoes and carrots, maple mustard roasted chicken thighs and eggnog pudding. Admission is $32.70 per person after taxes. Visit labellewinery.com.

• Join Birch Wood Vineyards (199 Rockingham Road, Derry) for the Birch Wood Experience, a public dinner event scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 8, at 6 p.m. The dinner aims to give guests an inside view of what a typical event at the venue looks like. In addition to hors d’oeuvres and a Caesar salad, guests can choose one of three entrees (pork tenderloin, chicken piccata or stuffed poblano peppers). Admission is $50 and reservations are required (reserve no later than Dec. 1). Visit birchwoodvineyards.com.

• Great New England Craft & Artisan Shows will present their annual holiday shopping extravaganza on Friday, Dec. 10, from 5 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Hampshire Hills Athletic Club (50 Emerson Road, Milford). The event features dozens of artisan and specialty food vendors selling all types of items for the holiday season, plus holiday music and a cash bar with specialty holiday cocktails available. Admission and parking are free. Visit gnecraftartisanshows.com.

• Don’t miss the 24th annual Inn to Inn Holiday Cookie and Candy Tour happening on Saturday, Dec. 11, and Sunday, Dec. 12, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. During this two-day self-guided tour participants visit inns in various White Mountain region towns to taste cookies and candy and get holiday recipes and decorating tips. This year’s tour stretches across nine inns, with each no more than 15 minutes from another. Advance tickets come with reserving a lodging package at one of the participating inns, but single tickets are also available for $35. Visit countryinnsinthewhitemountains.com.

• The Canterbury Community Farmers Market Association will hold a special indoor holiday-themed market on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the gymnasium of Canterbury Elementary School (15 Baptist Road). Masks are required for all attendees. Visit canterburyfarmersmarket.com.

• The Currier & Ives Cookie Tour returns for its 16th year on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nearly a dozen businesses in and around the Monadnock region participate in this guided tour, providing visitors with homemade treats, refreshments, recipes and more. Tickets are $15 per person (cash only) and will be available for purchase beginning on Dec. 1. Tickets may be purchased at New England Everyday Goods (16 Colls Farm Road, Jaffrey), The Inn at East Hill Farm (460 Monadnock St., Troy) and the Woodbound Inn (247 Woodbound Road, Rindge). Visit currierandivescookietour.com.

• The Bedford Village Inn (2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford) will hold its next Champagne brunch on Sunday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in its Great Hall. The event features unlimited mimosas and a brunch buffet, including a raw bar, a chef-attended omelet station and a selection of desserts. Tickets are $95 per person (event is 21+ only) and reservations are required. Visit bedfordvillageinn.com.

• Enjoy holiday afternoon tea with The Cozy Tea Cart at the Gatherings at the Colonel Shepard House (29 Mont Vernon St., Milford) on Sunday, Dec. 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. In addition to a selection of fine quality teas there will be a variety of foods available to try, like tea breads, sandwiches, pastries and more. The cost is $39.95 per person and reservations are required. Visit thecozyteacart.com.

• The Culinary Playground (16 Manning St., Derry) is hosting its annual parent-child gingerbread house decorating workshops, with available dates on Friday, Dec. 17, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., 6 to 7 p.m. or 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.; and on Sunday, Dec. 19, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., 3 to 4 p.m. or 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Adults and kids will work together with royal icing and all types of colorful treats and edible decorations to design their own houses. The cost is $45 per parent-child team and registration is required (houses and treats are provided). Visit culinary-playground.com.

• LaBelle Winery is hosting a Polar Express brunch with Santa Claus on Saturday, Dec. 18, from 10 a.m. to noon at its Amherst location (345 Route 101). In addition to assorted scones, muffins and rolls the menu will feature a multi-course food offering and holiday-inspired cocktails. The event also includes a screening of The Polar Express and photo opportunities with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Admission, after taxes, is $41.31 for adults and $23.09 for kids ages 3 and up. Visit labellewinery.com.

• Join LaBelle Winery at its Derry location (14 Route 111) for a New Year’s Eve dinner on Friday, Dec. 31, from 6 to 10:30 p.m. The three-course plated dinner will be served inside the vineyard ballroom, and there will also be a featured performance by the Freese Brothers Big Band. General admission is $100 per person, plus tax and gratuity, and also includes access to the winery’s LaBelle Lights festival on the golf course. Visit labellewinery.com.

• Ring in 2022 with a New Year’s Eve Celebration at Averill House Vineyard (21 Averill Road, Brookline) on Friday, Dec. 31, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., featuring a Brazilian-themed five-course dinner and wine pairing. Tickets are $89 per person and include a complimentary wine glass. Visit averillhousevineyard.com.

• Chunky’s Cinema Pub in Pelham (150 Bridge St.) will host a special New Year’s Eve Dinner Party along with a screening of the 2013 film The Great Gatsby, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 31, at 9 p.m. The evening will feature a five-course menu courtesy of Ya Mas Greek Taverna & Bar of Pelham along with the movie. The party will continue with a Champagne toast and a big-screen viewing of the Times Square ball drop at midnight. The cost is $90 per person and includes the dinner, the movie and the toast. Visit chunkys.com.

Party on a board
In the Nov. 18 issue of the Hippo, Matt Ingersoll looked at the charcuterie board trend. These boards (and boxes and bowls and in at least one case jars) of meats, cheeses and other tasty items make for good snacks, gifts or party accompaniments. Find out more about the local businesses that construct this edible art in the story, which starts on page 20. Find the e-edition of the issue at hippopress.com.

Featured photo: Photo courtesy of Fig & Olive of Milford.

Classical holidays

Pops, carols and symphonies in tune

Experience the sounds of the season through classical music with these performances by local orchestras, choirs and ensembles.

• Symphony NH performs its Holiday Brass concert on Saturday, Nov. 27, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary and Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church (39 Chandler St., Nashua); Sunday, Nov. 28, at 3 p.m. at The Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Dr., Manchester); and Friday, Dec. 10, at 7:30 p.m. at the Park Theatre (19 Main St., Jaffrey). Tickets range from $20 to $60 for adults, from $18 to $55 for seniors age 65+ and are free for children. Visit symphonynh.org.

• The Granite State Ringers handbell choir presents a holiday concert series with shows on Sunday, Nov. 28, at 3 p.m. at LaBelle Winery (14 Route 111, Derry); Sunday, Dec. 5, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Methodist Church (335 Smyth Road, Manchester); and Saturday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at 320 Main St. in Sandown. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for kids age 10 and under for the Nov. 28 show and $10 in advance and $12 at the door for the Dec. 5 show. The Dec. 11 show is free, but reservations are required. Visit granitestateringers.org.

• The Strafford Wind Symphony performs its holiday concert at the Rochester Opera House (31 Wakefield St., Rochester) on Tuesday, Nov. 30, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $8 for seniors and military. Visit rochesteroperahouse.com.

• Boston Brass performs its holiday concert at the Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St., Concord) on Friday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $30. Call 225-1111 or visit ccanh.com.

• The New Hampshire Gay Men’s Chorus presents its holiday concert series, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” with shows on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m., at Londonderry United Methodist Church (258 Mammoth Road, Londonderry); Sunday, Dec. 5, at 4 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church (79 Clinton St., Concord); Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (22 Fox Run Road, Newington); and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 4 p.m. at The Derryfield School (2108 River Road, Manchester). Tickets cost $20 for adults; admission is free for children ages 12 and under. Visit nhgmc.com.

• The Nashua Choral Society performs its holiday concert, “Season of Lights,” on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 3 p.m., at Immaculate Conception Church (216 E. Dunstable Road, Nashua). Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for students. Admission is free for children. Visit nashuachoralsociety.org.

• The New Hampshire Philharmonic performs its Holiday Pops concert on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 3 p.m. at LaBelle Winery in Amherst (345 Route 101), and on Sunday, Dec. 12, at 4 p.m. at LaBelle Winery in Derry (14 Route 111). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $20 for kids age 10 and under. Visit labellewinery.com. The group will also perform on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m., at the Seifert Performing Arts Center (44 Geremonty Dr., Salem). Tickets cost $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $8 for students. Visit nhphil.org.

• The Manchester Community Music School (2291 Elm St., Manchester) presents its Holiday Pops concert on Friday, Dec. 10, and Saturday, Dec. 11, at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $45. Call 644-4548 or visit mcmusicschool.org.

• The Lakes Region Symphony Orchestra performs its Holiday Spectacular show at the Colonial Theatre of Laconia (617 Main St., Laconia) on Friday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m., and at the Inter-Lakes Community Auditorium (Route 25, Meredith) on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $10 to $20 for students and $20 to $30 for adults for the Dec. 10 show, and $10 for students and $25 for adults for the shows on Dec. 11 and Dec. 12. Visit lrso.org.

• The Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra performs its Holiday Pops concert at the SNHU Arena (555 Elm St., Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $54. Visit snhuarena.com.

• The Souhegan Valley Chorus performs its holiday concert, “A Celebration of Christmas,” on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. at Souhegan High School (412 Boston Post Road, Amherst). Tickets are available at the door and cost $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Visit souheganvalleychorus.org.

• Symphony NH performs its Holiday Pops concert on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Keefe Center for the Arts (117 Elm St., Nashua); and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 3 p.m. at the Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord). Tickets range from $20 to $60 for adults, from $18 to $55 for seniors age 65+, and are free for children. Visit symphonynh.org.

• The Concord Chorale presents its holiday show “Gloria!” at South Congregational Church (27 Pleasant St., Concord) on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $20 for general admission and $15 for seniors in advance, and $25/$20 at the door. Visit concordchorale.org.

• The Manchester Choral Society performs its holiday concert at LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) on Sunday, Dec. 12, at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for kids age 10 and under. Visit labellewinery.com.

• The Piccola Opera presents “The Dickens Carolers on Tour” at the Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord) on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for seniors and children and $20 for adults. Call 344-4747 or visit ccca-audi.org.

• The Rockingham Choral Society presents its holiday concert, “Invitations and Carols,” on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (22 Fox Run Road, Newington), and on Sunday, Dec. 19, at 3:30 p.m. at Christ Church (43 Pine St., Exeter). Tickets cost $12. Visit rockinghamchoral.org.

• The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra presents its New Year’s Eve Champagne Pops concert at the Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Friday, Dec. 31, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $38. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

Concerts for all musical tastes

From jazz and big band to rock and classic country, these holiday concerts have something for any kind of music fan.

• The Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings its holiday concert to the SNHU Arena (555 Elm St., Manchester) on Friday, Nov. 26, with shows at 3:30 and 8 p.m. Tickets start at $59.50. Visit snhuarena.com.

• A Holiday Piano Bash with George Lopez comes to the Spotlight Room (96 Hanover St., Manchester) on Saturday, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $19. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• The Majestic Theatre presents “A Piano Christmas,” a holiday piano cabaret and sing-alongwith Robert Dionne, at the Majestic Studio Theatre (880 Page St., Manchester) on Saturday, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $20. Visit majestictheatre.net.

• The Wizards of Winter performs its holiday rock opera at the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St., Derry) on Sunday, Nov. 28, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $40 to $55. Call 437-5100 or visit tupelomusichall.com.

• The Maccabeats perform “Chanukah at the Palace” at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) on Monday, Nov. 29, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $12 for children ages 4 through 12, and are free for children ages 3 and under. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• The Compaq Big Band performs “A Big Band Christmas” at the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Thursday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• Rockapella performs its annual holiday show at the Stockbridge Theatre (5 Pinkerton St., Derry) on Friday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $25. Visit stockbridgetheatre.com.

• Gary Hoey’s “Ho! Ho! Hoey!” holiday show comes to the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St., Derry) on Friday, Dec. 3, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35 to $40. Call 437-5100 or visit tupelomusichall.com.

• Morgan James brings her “Very Magnetic Christmas” tour to the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for the show or $65 for a VIP package that includes a meet-and-greet, private acoustic song performance and autographed show poster. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• The Carpenters tribute band Top of the World presents “A Carpenters Christmas Show” at the Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St., Concord) on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Call 225-1111 or visit ccanh.com.

•​ Rich DiMare performs A Sinatra Christmas at the Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Thursday, Dec. 9, at 6 and 8 p.m., and Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m. Tickets are by table and cost $100 for a small table of up to two people, $200 for a medium table of up to four people and $300 for a large table of up to six people. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400. DiMare also brings the show to the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Sunday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $29 to $39. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• The Eric Mintel Jazz Quartet presents Charlie Brown Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. at The Spotlight Room (96 Hanover St., Manchester). Tickets cost $29. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• An Irish Christmas in America comes to the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $45. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• See A Nashville Christmas, featuring holiday music by country music legends like Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn and others, at LaBelle Winery (14 Route 111, Derry) on Thursday, Dec. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $35. Visit labellewinery.com.

• Million Dollar Quartet, a tribute to the music of Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley, performs its holiday show at the Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St., Concord) on Friday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35 to $85. Call 225-1111 or visit ccanh.com.

• The Winter Solstice Mini-Fest featuring Matt Flinner and Low Lily will take place at the Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St., Concord) on Friday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $23 purchased in advance and $25 at the door. Call 225-1111 or visit banknhstage.com.

• Brian Setzer Orchestra tribute band the Rock This Town Orchestra performs its Christmas Spectacular concert on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m. at the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester). Tickets cost $29 to $39. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• The Capital Jazz Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concert will be held at the Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St., Concord) on Sunday, Dec. 19, at 4 p.m. Tickets start at $27.50. Call 225-1111 or visit ccanh.com.

• Christmas with the Spain Brothers with Green Heron comes to the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Thursday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $29. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

Featured photo: The Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Courtesy photo.

Plenty of chances to see The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol

The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol are back, with plenty of opportunities through the end of the year to see the holiday classics performed live and in person.

• The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) presents A Christmas Carol from Nov. 26 through Dec. 22, with showtimes on Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon, with additional shows on Tuesday, Dec. 21, and Wednesday, Dec. 22, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• The Methuen Ballet Ensemble performs The Nutcracker at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Saturday, Nov. 27, at noon and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $34. Visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• New England Dance Ensemble presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, Nov. 27, and Sunday, Nov. 28, at 2 p.m. at the Windham High School Theater (64 London Bridge Road, Windham). Tickets cost $30 to $45. Visit nede.org.

• Gerald Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, brings his one-man performance of A Christmas Carol to Sky Meadow Country Club (391 E. Dunstable Road, Nashua) on Thursday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 p.m., and to the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Friday, Dec. 3, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $35 for the Dec. 2 show and $45 for the Dec. 3 show. Visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities and fortingage.com.

• Sole City Dance presents The Nutcracker at Rochester Opera House (31 Wakefield St., Rochester) on Thursday, Dec. 2, and Friday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 4, at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $28 for adults and $24 for seniors, military and children. Visit rochesteroperahouse.com.

• The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord) presents Dickens’ A Christmas Carol from Dec. 3 through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $22 for adults, $19 for students, seniors and members and $16 for senior members. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) presents A Christmas Carol from Dec. 3 through Dec. 23, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m., with additional shows Monday, Dec. 20, through Thursday, Dec. 23, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $22 for students and seniors age 65 and up and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• Bedford Dance Center presents The Nutcracker Suite on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester). Tickets cost $25. Visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• Portsmouth School of Ballet presents The Nutcrackeron Saturday, Dec. 4, at 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., at Exeter High School auditorium (1 Blue Hawk Drive, Exeter). Tickets cost $20. Visit psb-nh.com/nutcracker.

• The Rochester Opera House (31 Wakefield St., Rochester) presents A Christmas Carol from Dec. 9 through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 5 p.m. Tickets range from $16 to $26. Visit rochesteroperahouse.com.

• The Manchester Community Music School (2291 Elm St., Manchester) hosts a “My First Nutcracker” holiday children’s show on Saturday, Dec. 11, with start times between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The show includes a 45-minute interactive experience with storytelling and classical music centered on The Nutcracker. Tickets cost $15, with a $10 discount for families of four people or more; admission is free for children under age 2. Reservations are required. Call 644-4548 or visit mcmusicschool.org.

• Turning Pointe Center of Dance presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at the Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord). Tickets cost $18. Visit turningpointecenterofdance.com.

• Northeastern Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m., at Dover High School (25 Alumni Drive, Dover) and Saturday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m., at the Kingswood Arts Center (396 S. Main St., Wolfeboro). Tickets purchased in advance cost $30 for adults, $25 for seniors age 60 and up and $17.50 for students and children; tickets purchased at the door are an additional $5. Visit northeasternballet.org.

• Dance Visions Network presents The Nutcracker Suite Acts I & II on Sunday, Dec. 12, at 12:30 and 5 p.m. at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester). Tickets cost $22 plus a $4 surcharge. Visit dancevisionsnetwork.com.

• The Peacock Players present A Christmas Carol: An Original Live Radio Play at the Court Street Theatre (14 Court St., Nashua) on Thursday, Dec. 16, and Friday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 18, at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $15 to $19. Visit peacockplayers.org.

• New England School of Dance presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 2 and 5:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Theatre (Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St., Derry). Tickets cost $30. Visit newenglandschoolofdance.com.

• See a broadcast presentation of The Bolshoi Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker at the Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St., Concord) on Sunday, Dec. 19, at 12:55 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for students. Call 225-1111 or visit banknhstage.com.

• Ballet Misha presents The Nutcrackeron Saturday, Dec. 18, at 1 and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester). Tickets cost $26. Visit dimensionsindance.com.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet presents The Nutcracker Suite at Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord) on Sunday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m.; and at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) on Sunday, Dec. 26, at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $22. Visit nhschoolofballet.com.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet presents The Nutcracker Suite at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) on Sunday, Dec. 26, at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $22. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

Also on stage

Dance, comedy and more holiday-centric shows

Theater

• The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) presents The Toymaker’s Apprentice from Dec. 4 through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. and noon. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $22 for students and seniors age 65 and up and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• The Majestic Theatre presents Scrooge in Love at the Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry) on Friday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 11, at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for seniors age 65 and up and students age 17 and under. Visit majestictheatre.net.

• The Pinkerton Players present Coney Island Christmas at the Stockbridge Theatre (5 Pinkerton St., Derry) on Friday, Dec. 10, and Saturday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Visit stockbridgetheatre.com.

•​ The Palace Youth Theatre presents Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) on Tuesday, Dec. 14, and Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $12 to $15. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• The Rochester Opera House (31 Wakefield St., Rochester) drag series presents Li Monahd’s Holiday Hoopla on Thursday, Dec. 23, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Visit rochesteroperahouse.com.

Dance

• Concord Dance Academy performs its Holiday Spectacular at Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord) on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 1 and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 5, at 1 p.m. Tickets cost $20. Visit ccca-audi.org.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet presents its Holiday Performance at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

Comedy

• Jimmy Dunn’s Comedy Christmas comes to the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Friday, Dec. 10, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $25. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• ImprovBoston presents “The Improvised Holiday Extravaganza” on Friday, Dec. 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester). Tickets cost $25. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• Local comedian Juston McKinney performs his annual “A Year in Review” show at The Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Sunday, Dec. 26, and Monday, Dec. 27, at 6 p.m., and Tuesday, Dec. 28, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $28 to $34. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

Featured photo: Turning Pointe Center of Dance presents The Nutcracker. Courtesy photo.

Holiday fun for the younger crowd

There’s plenty of festive fun to be had this holiday season — check out this list of storytimes, special film screenings, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus and more.

• Visit Santa Claus at Bass Pro Shops (2 Commerce Dr., Hooksett) now through Dec. 24. Free giveaways will be available while supplies last. Events are by online reservation only. Visit basspro.com/santa to make your reservation up to seven days in advance.

• The Hudson Lions Club will present a drive-thru visit with Santa Claus, who will arrive by fire truck in the parking lot of Alvirne High School (200 Derry Road, Hudson) on Friday, Nov. 26, at 1 p.m. “Elves” will be giving out goodie bags for kids. Visit nhlions.org/hudson.

• Kids can meet Santa Claus at Ya Mas Greek Taverna & Bar (125 Bridge St., Pelham), which is holding several ticketed events featuring photo opportunities, gifts, gingerbread house decorating, holiday feasts and more. Choose from an 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. seating every Saturday and Sunday, from Nov. 27 through Dec. 19, as well as Thursday, Dec. 23, and Friday, Dec. 24. Each seating has an allocated two-hour time slot. The cost is $55 for adults and $35 for kids. Visit yamasgreektaverna.com.

• Sit with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus at the Deerfield Town Gazebo (Church Street, Deerfield) on Sunday, Nov. 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. This year they’ll be roped off inside the gazebo to ensure that safe social distancing is maintained. Kids can wave to and converse with the Clauses and pose for photos on the stairs in front of them. Masks are highly recommended. Visit deerfield.recdesk.com.

• Charmingfare Farm (774 High St., Candia) has once again combined its Santa’s Big Party and Lighted Winter Wonderland events into one celebration, Santa’s Christmas. Individual tickets are not being sold; only packages are available, for $249 (one package is good for up to 10 people), with various times available to visit the farm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 3 through Dec. 5; Dec. 10 through Dec. 12; and Dec. 17 through Dec. 19, and Thursday, Dec. 23. Horse-drawn wagons are divided into two sections of 10 passengers each. Attractions include a live animal Nativity, visits with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and live “reindeer,” s’mores kits available for purchase, and hot cocoa and complimentary sugar cookies provided by Mrs. Claus. Visit visitthefarm.com to check available times.

• Santa Land returns to the Gilford Youth Center (19 Potter Hill Road, Gilford) on Friday, Dec. 3, and Saturday, Dec. 4. Kids can enjoy games, arts and crafts, cookie decorating and bounce houses at several interactive stations. In small groups, they’ll also be invited to Santa’s room for photo opportunities. Admission is free. Santa Land hours are from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Visit gilfordyouthcenter.com.

• Join the Millyard Museum (200 Bedford St., Manchester) for its annual holiday open house on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring children’s holiday crafts, raffles, photo opportunities with Santa Claus and more. All are welcome free with museum admission. Visit manchesterhistoric.org.

• The Hooksett Public Library (31 Mount St. Mary’s Way, Hooksett) will host its annual Santa Party on Saturday, Dec. 4. Attendees can register a half-hour time slot between the hours of 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., when they can enjoy music, crafts, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Registration and Hooksett library cards are required.

• Join the Rodgers Memorial Library (194 Derry Road, Hudson) for an outdoor holiday festival on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to noon, featuring seasonal music, photo opportunities, games, snacks and more. Visit rodgerslibrary.org.

• St. Joseph Hospital (172 Kinsley St., Nashua) will hold its Christmas Around the World event on Saturday, Dec. 4, featuring free photo opportunities with Santa Claus, holiday-themed activities for all ages, sweet treats, live multicultural performances and more. Attendees can sign up for one of two time slots, either from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or from 1 to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Visit stjosephhospital.com.

• Back by popular demand, the Manchester Historic Association is presenting its annual American Girl Doll tea party on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Millyard Museum (200 Bedford St., Manchester). Guests can bring their dolls for a guided tour of the museum and enjoy a tea party with refreshments and crafts. The cost is $10 per person and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit manchesterhistoric.org.

• Visit Santa Claus at Greeley Park (100 Concord St., Nashua) for a socially distanced photo opportunity on Sunday, Dec. 5, from noon to 2 p.m. All kids will also receive a free gift. Visit nashuanh.gov.

• Don’t miss the Jingle Bell Extravaganza, a two-day holiday event at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (6 Washington St., Dover) on Sunday, Dec. 5, and Sunday, Dec. 12. Attendees can meet Santa Claus for a socially distanced photo opportunity and receive a special gift. There will also be readings of The Polar Express, plus hands-on holiday craft activities, a magical science experiment and more. Pajamas are welcome. Time slots are available from 1 to 2:30 p.m. or from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on both days. Tickets are $15 for museum members and $20 for non-members (free for ages 12 months and under). Families will have their photos with Santa emailed to them no more than two weeks after the event. Visit childrens-museum.org.

• The Derry Public Library (64 E. Broadway, Derry) is hosting several special elf training sessions for kids at various times on Tuesday, Dec. 7, Wednesday, Dec. 8, and Friday, Dec. 10. Sessions are about 45 minutes long and feature “elven” crafts, songs, stories and more. Registration is required. Visit derrypl.org.

• The Milford Recreation Department will host Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. inside the Town Hall Auditorium (1 Union Sq., Milford). The cost is $9 per person (free for kids under 2). Visit milfordrec.com to register.

• Santa Claus will arrive by helicopter at the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire (27 Navigator Road, Londonderry) on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 11 a.m., where he’ll greet families and take gift requests until 1 p.m. The outdoor event is free and open to the public. Hot cocoa and cider will also be provided, courtesy of the Airport Diner in Manchester. Visit aviationmuseumofnh.org.

• The YMCA of Greater Londonderry (206 Rockingham Road, Londonderry) will host a Kids Night at the Y on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 4 to 9 p.m. The theme will be “Holiday Palooza.” YMCA staff will keep the kids healthy and active with art and STEM projects, and a pizza dinner will be served. Are all welcome, no membership required. The cost is $40 per child, and $15 for each additional sibling. Visit graniteymca.org.

• Enjoy s’mores with Santa at the New Boston Town Common (Meetinghouse Hill Road, New Boston) on Saturday, Dec. 11. Santa Claus will be on the gazebo for the tree lighting at 4 p.m. Kids can visit Santa after the tree lighting and bring an ornament from home to be placed on the town tree. Fire pits for roasting marshmallows will be open from 4 to 6 p.m., with s’mores fixings, hot chocolate and cider all provided by the New Boston Recreation Department. Visit newbostonnh.gov.

• Chunky’s Cinema Pub (707 Huse Road, Manchester; 151 Coliseum Ave., Nashua; 150 Bridge St., Pelham) will hold a Polar Express holiday viewing party at each of its three locations on Saturday, Dec. 11, and Sunday, Dec. 12, with screenings at noon, 3:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Visit chunkys.com/film/the-polar-express-holiday-viewing-party-2021 and click on your preferred theater location to purchase tickets.

• The Music Hall (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) will host a screening of the 2018 animated film The Grinchon Thursday, Dec. 23, at 3 p.m., with a children’s storytime preceding it at 2 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students, and includes access to the storytime. If you want to attend just the storytime and not the movie screening, admission is $5 per family. Visit themusichall.org.

• Ring in the new year a bit early at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (6 Washington St., Dover), during its annual family New Year’s Eve celebration on Friday, Dec. 31. Two time slots are available to reserve, from 9 a.m. to noon or from noon to 3:30 p.m. Museum staff will stage four “countdowns to midnight,” at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. during the morning session, and at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. during the afternoon session. Everyone will receive a noisemaker and will get to create their own sparkly party hat. Admission is $11 per adult and per child, $9 for seniors, and free for museum members and kids under 12 months. Visit childrens-museum.org.

Craft fair season
Do some shopping for artisan-made items at local craft fairs. Find listings for the coming weekend’s craft fairs most weeks on the This Week page (page 9 in this and most issues). Know of an upcoming craft fair? Let us know at [email protected].

Featured photo: Charmingfare Farm. Courtesy photo.

Town tree lightings and festivals of trees for your holiday

Cities and towns all across the Granite State are marking the holiday season with ceremonial tree lightings. Check out a list of them here, along with special festivals of trees hosted by local organizations.

• The Bektash Shriners of New Hampshire are holding their 21st annual Fez-tival of Trees both online and in person this year, now through Saturday, Nov. 27, virtually, and through Sunday, Nov. 28, at the Bektash Shrine Center (189 Pembroke Road, Concord). Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and free for kids under 12, with fully decorated trees being raffled off on Sunday, Nov. 28, at 4 p.m. Visit nhshriners.org.

• Pelham Community Spirit is hosting the annual Southern New Hampshire Festival of Trees at Sherburne Hall in the municipal building (6 Village Green, Pelham) from Friday, Nov. 26, through Saturday, Dec. 4, at varying times each day. Business, community groups and residents in and around Pelham donate decorated Christmas trees and wreaths to be raffled off at the end of the event. There will also be daily bake sales, live entertainment and special appearances from Santa Claus. Admission is $5 for adults and free for kids ages 12 and under (multiple-day passes are also available). Visit snhfestivaloftrees.pelhamcommunityspirit.org.

• Concord’s annual Christmas tree lighting celebration is happening at the Statehouse Plaza (North Main Street, Concord) on Friday, Nov. 26, at 4 p.m. Visit concordnh.gov.

• The Very Derry Holiday Celebration on Saturday, Nov. 27, will conclude with a tree lighting at 5:15 p.m., at 1 West Broadway in Derry. Visit gdlchamber.org.

• The third annual Auburn tree lighting is happening on Sunday, Nov. 28, at 6 p.m. in the front parking lot of the Auburn Village School (11 Eaton Hill Road, Auburn). Santa will arrive via fire truck and lead the countdown to light the tree. The Grinch will also be there to cause a little mischief. Visit auburnnh.us.

• Rivier University (420 S. Main St., Nashua) will hold its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 1, at 6 p.m. on its chapel quad. Visit rivier.edu.

• This year’s Exeter Festival of Trees will be held over two days, on Wednesday, Dec. 1, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday, Dec. 2, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Exeter Town Hall (10 Front St., Exeter). The event features 50 decorated trees on display for viewing, with all the bidding taking place online this year. The auction link will be posted at exeterareacharitablefoundation.org/festivaloftrees, as well as on the event’s Facebook page. Directions on how to bid on a tree and how to buy raffle tickets will be available at the event.

• The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce will present its annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Dec. 3, at 5:30 p.m. at Central Square in downtown Rochester. The event will also feature visits and photo opportunities with Santa Claus, dance performances, cookie decorating, caroling and more. Visit rochesternh.org.

• Goffstown’s annual Friday Night Under the Lights will take place on Friday, Dec. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m., in Goffstown Village, featuring the town tree lighting, caroling, holiday hayrides, cocoa, cookies and more. Visit goffstownmainstreet.org.

• The Fremont Parks & Recreation Department is hosting its annual Santa party and tree lighting on Friday, Dec. 3, at 6 p.m. This year the event will be outdoors at the Ellis School (432 Main St., Fremont). Everyone who gives Santa a letter will be entered in a raffle for a chance to win prizes. Visit fremont.nh.gov.

• Windham’s annual tree lighting is happening on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 5 p.m. on the Windham Town Common. Santa Claus will be in the gazebo for photos, and there will be a bonfire and carolers from 4 to 5 p.m. Visit windhamnh.gov.

• Portsmouth’s illuminated holiday parade and tree lighting will be held on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 5 p.m. at Market Square in Portsmouth, with remarks from the mayor and music from the Portsmouth Holiday Ensemble. The parade will then kick off from the Goodwin Park area on Islington Street at 6 p.m. Visit cityofportsmouth.com.

• The Town of Chester will be holding its 300th anniversary Christmas tree lighting and caroling event on Saturday, Dec. 4, at Stevens Memorial Hall (1 Chester St., Chester). A 25-foot tree will be placed on the lawn and lit at 5 p.m., followed by caroling from the Manchester Choral Society. Refreshments will also be provided by the Chester Lions Club. Visit chesternh.org.

• Join LaBelle Winery for a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at its Amherst location (345 Route 101) on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 5 p.m. There is no admission charge, but guests are encouraged to bring items to support SHARE Outreach, like socks, hats, mittens, gloves and scarves. Visit labellewinery.com.

• The Merrimack Parks & Recreation Department will present its 28th annual holiday parade and tree lighting on Sunday, Dec. 5, at Abbie Griffin Park (6 Baboosic Lake Road, Merrimack). The parade begins at the Commons Shopping Plaza (515 Daniel Webster Hwy.) at 3 p.m., with the tree lighting at 3:45 p.m. immediately following the parade’s arrival at the park. Visit merrimackparksandrec.org.

• Stratham’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony is set for Sunday, Dec. 5, at 5 p.m. at the Stratham Fire Station (4 Winnicut Road, Stratham), featuring music, hot chocolate, caroling, cookies and more. Visit strathamnh.gov.

• The annual Amherst tree lighting ceremony is happening on Friday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. at the Amherst Town Green at Main and Church streets. Follow the Facebook page @amhersttreelightingfestival for updates.

Featured photo: The Bektash Shriners of New Hampshire’s Fez-tival of Trees. Courtesy photo.

Downtown holiday parades, light displays and more

From downtown parades to spectacular multi-day light displays, here’s a list of festive happenings to get you into the holiday spirit this season.

• LaBelle Lights continues at LaBelle Winery’s Derry location (14 Route 111) now through Feb. 26. This festive outdoor light show features displays that are being changed periodically throughout its run, taking place on the facility’s golf course along a paved walking path. The display includes a 15-foot-tall selfie station made of wine barrels, designed and installed by LaBelle vineyard manager and professional woodworker Josh Boisvert. A number of themed events are also being planned in coordination with LaBelle Lights, including a “Crazy Christmas Hat Night” on Dec. 3 and an “Ugly Holiday Sweater Night” on Dec. 17. Hours of operation are from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on select days throughout the season. Tickets are $15. Visit labellewinery.com/lights to view the full calendar schedule.

• The Gift of Lights returns to New Hampshire Motor Speedway (1122 Route 106 North, Loudon), opening on Thursday, Nov. 25, and continuing through Sunday, Jan. 2. The 2½-mile drive-thru light show features a variety of scenes making up more than 500 different light displays along the track. It’s open from 4:30 to 9 p.m. every Sunday through Thursday, and 4:30 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, depending on weather conditions. The cost ranges from $30 to $35 per carload, and is $60 per limo or bus. Visit nhms.com/events/giftoflights.

• Downtown Nashua is once again hosting Plaid Friday, a shopping event alternative to Black Friday, on Friday, Nov. 26. Participants who wear plaid are eligible for giveaways, discounts and more at participating businesses. Go to 110 Main St. in Nashua to pick up a swag bag and a map of participating venues, along with coupons, discounts and other offers. Tickets are free, but a donation of $5 or $10 is suggested. Visit downtownnashua.org/shop-2/plaid-friday.

• The Town of Pelham and Pelham Community Spirit will present the second annual Festival of Lights on the town’s Village Green, beginning Friday, Nov. 26, and lasting through the end of the year. Visit pelhamcommunityspirit.org.

• The 35th annual Nutfield Holiday Parade is happening on Saturday, Nov. 27, kicking off at 1 p.m. in Derry. This year’s theme is “Unsung Heroes,” with the parade featuring more than 80 festive floats, marching units, performers and costumed characters. It will step off in front of the Adams Memorial Building before continuing down Broadway, making a left on Crystal Avenue and finishing at Hood Commons. The parade is part of the annual Very Derry Holiday Celebration, which will have multiple holiday-themed festivities around town, like live music at The Wandering Stage (Benson’s Lawn, 1 W. Broadway) and holiday crafts and photos with Santa from 2 to 5 p.m. at Veterans Hall (31 W. Broadway). Visit gdlchamber.org.

• The Wolfeboro Area Chamber of Commerce will host the Christmas in Wolfeboro Parade, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 27, at 3 p.m. A view of the entire parade will be available from either side of Main Street in Wolfeboro, from in front of Carpenter Elementary School heading north to Mill Street. Visit wolfeborochamber.com/events/christmas-in-wolfeboro-parade.

• The Salem Holiday Parade returns for its 50th year on Sunday, Nov. 28, at 1 p.m. This year’s theme is “Golden Anniversary,” with the parade beginning at the intersection of Main and Policy streets in Salem. It will then continue down Main Street and turn right onto Geremonty Drive, ending at Salem High School. Visit salemnhparade.org.

Turkey trots and Santa Shuffle
Work up an appetite for Thanksgiving pie at area Turkey Trot race events happening Thanksgiving day (and a few later that weekend). December also has some other holiday-themed races. Find some final opportunities to run a 5K (and score some cool swag) in our Nov. 11 cover story, where Meghan Siegler talks about how these runs are put together and why runners enjoy taking part. See the e-edition of the issue at hippopress.com; the story starts on page 10.

• The Celebrate Laconia Lights Festival returns to the city of Laconia, featuring several ongoing events throughout the holiday season. It kicks off on Sunday, Nov. 28, with a downtown holiday parade beginning at 4:30 p.m. Also starting that day will be the Lights Festival coloring contest, with submissions accepted through Friday, Dec. 10, and the Light-Up Laconia Holiday Decorating Competition, which will run through Friday, Dec. 17. Visit celebratelaconia.org.

• Intown Concord’s annual Midnight Merriment event returns for the 28th year on Friday, Dec. 3, from 5 p.m. to midnight in downtown Concord. Activities will include holiday shopping at participating local businesses, strolling carolers, Nazzy’s holiday dance party, hot cocoa and S’mores, and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in front of the New Hampshire Federal Credit Union building. Visit intownconcord.org.

• Join Fright Kingdom (12 Simon St., Nashua) for its annual Krampus-themed holiday event, “The Fright Before Christmas,” Friday, Dec. 3, through Sunday, Dec. 5, 7 to 10 p.m. each night, featuring a costume contest, a scary winter wonderland and more. Tickets are $29 and must be purchased in advance. Visit frightkingdom.com or call 809-1173.

• Vintage Christmas, an ongoing citywide celebration of the holidays, returns to Portsmouth with happenings that include the Candlelight Stroll Under the Stars during the weekends from Dec. 4 to Dec. 19 at Strawbery Banke Museum (14 Hancock St., 433-1100, strawberybanke.org); Labrie Family Skate at Strawbery Banke’s Puddle Dock Pond; the 31st annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibit at the Portsmouth Historical Society (10 Middle St., 436-8433, portsmouthhistory.org) now through Dec. 22, and more throughout the season, including various shows at The Music Hall (28 Chestnut St., 436-2400, themusichall.org). Visit vintagechristmasnh.org.

• Experience Hampton will present its annual Hampton Holiday Parade on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 1 p.m., which will kick off at the Hampton-North Hampton town line and end at Winnacunnet Road. This year’s theme is “Holiday Memories.” Visit experiencehampton.org.

• The Exeter Holiday Parade returns on Saturday, Dec. 4, beginning on Portsmouth Ave. at 5:30 p.m. and ending at Swasey Parkway. Visit exeterholidayparade.org.

• Manchester’s annual holiday parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 4, kicking off at 4 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (889 Elm St.). The celebration will include snacks, letter carriers collecting letters to Santa Claus, and a variety of decorated floats, with several local organizations participating from the city Fire and Police departments to the Palace Theatre, the New Hampshire Roller Derby, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats and more. The parade is expected to begin immediately following the BASC Santa Claus Shuffle, a three-mile road race presented by Millennium Running. Visit manchesternh.gov.

• The Town of Nottingham’s Parks & Recreation Department is hosting a holiday parade Saturday, Dec. 4, at 10 a.m. at the community center (Stage Road). Visit nottingham-nh.gov.

• The Hampstead Christmas Parade returns for its 57th year on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 1 p.m. This year’s parade is Hawaiian-themed. Visit hampstead.nhlions.org.

• Bethany Church’s Greenland campus (500 Breakfast Hill Road) is hosting a drive-thru Christmas celebration Friday, Dec. 10, and Saturday, Dec. 11, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. each day. Experience a landscape bursting with Christmas lights and decorations, a live Nativity, holiday music and a 30-foot Christmas tree. Visit bethanychurch.com to register.

• The Southern New Hampshire Tour of Lights will run from Dec. 11 through Dec. 27, with multiple town parks and recreation departments participating, including Amherst, Milford, Jaffrey, Antrim, Fitzwilliam, Keene, Merrimack, Peterborough, Rindge and Troy. Contact your local recreation department by Dec. 6 to enter for a chance to win a gift certificate to a local area business.

• The Canterbury Shaker Village (288 Shaker Road) presents Merry Merry Canterbury, a holiday-themed celebration during the weekends of Saturday, Dec. 11, and Sunday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 18, and Sunday, Dec. 19. Activities will include opportunities to ascend the “Stairway to the Clouds” in the horse barn, plus caroling, dance and theater performances, a magic show and more. Admission is $20 for adults and free for kids. Masks required. Visit shakers.org.

• Light Up New Boston will take place on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m., directly following the town’s s’mores with Santa event on the gazebo. If you live in and around New Boston and have a light display to show off, contact the town’s Recreation Department at 487-2880 or at [email protected] with your address by Dec. 8. Maps will be available for families beginning Dec. 9 at newbostonnh.gov.

• Join the Beaver Brook Association (117 Ridge Road, Hollis) for its annual Winter Solstice Family Event on Sunday, Dec. 19, with time slots from 2 to 4 p.m. There will be a self-guided trail with a nature story about the origins of the Winter Solstice, plus facts about New England wildlife and the tradition of the Yule log. The cost is $12. Visit beaverbrook.org.

Craft fair season
Do some shopping for artisan-made items at local craft fairs. Find listings for the coming weekend’s craft fairs most weeks on the This Week page (page 9 in this and most issues). Know of an upcoming craft fair? Let us know at [email protected].

Featured photo: Santa Shuffle. Courtesy photo.