• Last call for LaBelle Lights: LaBelle Winery Derry (14 Route 111) is closing out its inaugural LaBelle Lights outdoor light display with a special Mardi Gras celebration on Friday, Feb. 25, and Saturday, Feb. 26, when there will be themed food and drink items available for purchase, as well as beads, Zydeco music and more. These will be the final two dates of the season that LaBelle Lights will be open on the winery’s golf course — the festive outdoor light show has been open since just before Thanksgiving and very quickly exceeded expectations with thousands of visitors in just the first month alone, owner Amy LaBelle told the Hippo in December. Plans are already underway to bring LaBelle Lights back to the winery next winter. Tickets to either of the last two dates this weekend are $15, and the hours are from 4:30 to 9 p.m. each evening. Visit labellewinery.com/lights to purchase tickets.
• Festival of wines: Speaking of Mardi Gras, there’s still time to get your tickets to A Mardi Gras Wine Festival, an event presented by St. Thomas Aquinas Church that’s happening at the Aquinas Center (26 Crystal Ave., Derry) on Saturday, Feb. 26, from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening is expected to include samplings and bottles for purchase from several New Hampshire-made wineries, including Zorvino Vineyards of Sandown, Appolo Vineyards of Derry and Flag Hill Distillery & Winery of Lee. There will also be live music, raffles, games, a door prize, food and more. Tickets are $40 per person or $70 per couple and can be purchased online or over the phone. Visit stthomasderry.org, find the event on Facebook or call the church office at 432-5000.
• Go Greek: Join St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral (650 Hanover St., Manchester), for An Apokreatiko Celebration, another Mardi Gras-themed event, happening on Saturday, Feb. 26, from 7 to 11 p.m. inside the church hall. There will be a variety of hors d’oeuvres available, in addition to a cash bar, Greek and American dancing, and a live performance from Greek DJs The Salonica Boys. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased either in advance or at the door. Children under the age of 12 receive free admission. In the coming months, St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral has other upcoming drive-thru events planned, according to its most recent newsletter, including a lamb shank dinner on March 19, a fish dinner on April 17 and a gyro event on May 21. Visit stgeorgenh.org or call the church office at 622-9113.
Dave Gambaccini is a Certified Commercial Investment Member and the senior advisor at Colliers Financial Services in Manchester, a commercial real estate brokerage firm and investment management company.
Explain your job.
I secure commercial loans for commercial real estate owners, investors and developers. I structure and underwrite loans … evaluate development or redevelopment budgets and … source loan proposals from multiple lenders at once, saving time and maximizing lending options for my clients.
How long have you had this job?
I [was previously] managing my own local firm, securing private equity and debt for commercial developments. I joined Colliers last year.
What led you to this career field and your current job?
I began investing in real estate in 2006, creating my own portfolio of properties. Eventually, it became a career. … I started on the brokerage side of the business … and moved into capital markets, helping [clients] to secure private investor money and lender debt.
What kind of education or training did you need?
I have earned the Certified Commercial Investment Member Designation … [which] represents proven expertise in financial, market, user, and investment analysis, as well as negotiations. … CCIMs complete a rigorous program of advanced coursework and training in financial and market analysis and demonstrate extensive experience in the commercial real estate industry. Less than 10 percent of commercial real estate professionals are CCIMs.
How has your job changed over the course of the pandemic?
When the pandemic really set in, real estate developments came to a screeching halt. There was too much uncertainty, which created less demand for private equity and debt. As Covid restrictions and market fluctuations stabilized … the demand for private equity started coming back; however, investor confidence was still low, which brought an increased demand for debt. Now, with the looming threat of increasing interest rates, we are … helping our clients secure cash out refinancing to take advantage of the low cost to borrow capital.
What do you wish you had known at the beginning of your career?
It took a while before I found my path. … I have a science degree [and] spent nearly 15 years in corporate America before turning personal investments into a career. … Finding industry mentors helped guide my path, and finding them sooner may have helped.
What do you wish other people knew about your job?
I secure purchase loans, refinancing, cash out refinancing, permanent and construction loans and even bridge or mezzanine loans. Working directly with a lender is common; however, I can source multiple lenders at the same time [so that] you are getting the most competitive offer from multiple sources.
What was the first job you ever had?
I started working for my father when I was 12 … [at his] landscape [and] construction company.
What is the best piece of work-related advice you have ever received?
Always conduct yourself as if your name is on the door. Who you are is more important than what you do. Your reputation and how you treat people and conduct business is what gets you through life.
Five favorites Favorite book: Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss. The kids love it. Favorite movie:Any Pixar movie — full of adult humor, yet kid-friendly. Favorite music: All the music I grew up listening to while working with my dad — Dean Martin, Sinatra, Johnny Cash, Jerry Reed, outlaw country and, of course, ’90s hair bands. Favorite food: Italian, specifically our authentic family recipes. Favorite thing about NH: Easy access to mountains, lakes, beaches, oceans and my family in Massachusetts.
We have been using this weight for a door stop. It’s super heavy and has a 4K on it. I think it is brass but I’m not sure.
Can you give us any information on it? We know it’s old because it belonged to my husband’s father. That’s all we know other than it works for a door stop.
Stacey from Tilton
Dear Stacey,
It took me a minute and some research to figure out your door stop, so thanks for the opportunity to learn something new!
What you have is a piece of sports memorabilia. It’s called a shot put and the 4K is the weight of it. That translates into about 8 pounds. It’s meant to be thrown. Then the distance is measured in field competition.
The value of older brass ones is in the range of $100, so you have a treasure for a door stop. I’m glad you have a new use for your shot put.
• The Grand Shanghai Circus will show off their acrobatic feats in shows at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) this Saturday, Feb. 26, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 27, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $24.50 to $54.50. Search “Grand Shanghai Circus” to see clips of their shows featuring aerial acrobatics, juggling and more.
Fun with pool noodles
• The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (2 Washington St. in Dover; childrens-museum.org, 742-2002) is open Tuesdays through Sundays, with sessions from 9 a.m. to noon all six days as well as from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. Admission costs $11 per person, $9 for 65+ (no charge for children under 1). On Thursday, Feb. 24, catch the second day of the Pool Noodle Workshop with Homeslice Puppetry. At 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., the museum will host a virtual class by Eric from Homeslice and provide materials so kids can make a puppet to take home, according to the website, which says the workshop is included in admission to a Thursday session. The website describes the project as being good for ages 3 and up with a grownup to help. Or head to the museum on Friday — both Feb. 25 and March 4 have “Science Friday” programming on the schedule. Reserve admission for the museum online.
Science outing
• The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (2 Institute Drive in Concord; starhop.com, 271-7827) is open daily through Sunday, March 6, with sessions from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m. There will be four planetarium shows daily, according to the website, which recommends purchasing timed tickets in advance. Admission costs $11.50 for adults, $10.50 for students and seniors and $8.50 for kids ages 3 to 12 (admission is free for children 2 and under; masks required for visitors over the age of 2). Planetarium show tickets cost $5 per person (free for children 2 and under); see the website for the schedule of planetarium shows.
• Though normally closed on Mondays, the SEE Science Center (200 Bedford St. in Manchester; see-sciencecenter.org, 669-0400) will be open Monday, Feb. 28, as well as Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Purchase reservations in advance via the website (masks are required for all visitors age 2 and up); admission costs $10 per person ages 3 and up.
Winter fun
• McIntyre Ski Area (50 Chalet Court in Manchester; 622-6159, mcintyreskiarea.com) has holiday hours: The lift is slated to operate daily through Saturday, March 5, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday, March 6, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The snowtubing Bonneville Thrill Hill hours are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1 to 3 p.m., 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., 6 to 8 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. daily through Saturday, March 5. See the website for daily updates on weather and ski conditions.
• NH Audubon is holding a “Winter Woodland Wander” on Tuesday, March 1, at the Massabesic Center (26 Audubon Way in Auburn; nhaudubon.org, 668-2045). A $15 ticket covers a family of four. During the hour-long program, attendees will hit the trails in search of tracks and other signs of wildlife, according to the website, where tickets can be purchased.
• Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum (18 Highlawn Road in Warner; indianmuseum.org, 456-2600) is holding a Snow Snake Winter Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 26, and Sunday, Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Learn to play the Abenaki outdoor game Snow Snake, featuring a wooden snake. The outdoor event, which is free and open to the public, will also feature a used book sale. Admission to the museum itself costs $9 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, $7 for children 6 to 12 and $26 for a family of two adults and children under 18.
When I was a young man my mailbox was often blessed with seed catalogs at this time of year. Now? Not so much. Back then I pored over them. I drooled over the listings. I wrote checks for small amounts and mailed them off to the companies offering the best-sounding varieties.
Now? Most seeds are sold online. Yes, my favorite feed-and-grain store, some hardware stores and the local food coop still sell seeds over the counter. And I do get a few catalogs in the mail. But seeds are largely sold through the internet.
One company that still sends me a catalog in the mail is called “Seeds from Italy” (also at GrowItalian.com). I’ve been following this company, which is based in Lawrence, Kansas, since a friend of mine bought it in 2011. His son, Will Nagengast, just took over and I called him to chat a bit after I got his catalog.
According to Will, the American palate is just discovering bitter vegetables. Italians, however, have been eating and enjoying those distinct flavors for a long time. So they feature many vegetables that are not commonly sold by other seed companies; they market seeds from Italy.
One I have tried is Cima di Rapa or broccoli raab, which I often see in cooking magazines, but not at the grocery store. It is unpleasant unless cooked, but cooked it is much like broccoli. It does not form a big head like broccoli, however — it’s all side shoots.
Do you like arugula? They sell five kinds, including a wild arugula (which can seed in if you let it). Then there are a dozen kinds of radicchio, including a pink-leafed one (Radicchio del Veneto) that Will says is very popular. Never grown radicchio? It can be eaten raw in a salad, or fried with bacon and shrimp, or put in a stir-fry or soup. Grilling or cooking it makes the flavor sweeter. Most varieties are red-leafed and round, but some are elongated like romaine lettuce.
I’m ordering seeds for a winter squash Will recommended: Butternut Rugosa. He says it is much larger than the Waltham butternut I normally grow: up to 30 or 40 pounds! He said it keeps for up to four months in a cool, dry place. He oven-roasts them and then freezes most of these big squash. Will uses the sweet, creamy meat for making homemade ravioli.
Fruition Seeds in the Finger Lake Region of New York State was started in 2012 by Petra Page-Mann and Michael Goldfarb. They are fully organic farmers, and most of what they grow are heirloom seeds, but they have developed a few varieties themselves through their breeding program. They encourage their customers to save seeds and use their own. I called Petra recently to see what they have added to their seed line.
August Ambrosia is a short-season watermelon that Fruition developed over a six-year period in collaboration with Cornell University. They tested it each year with visitors to the farm to get just what people wanted: sweet, juicy melons that, even if planted in June, will produce ripe melons in August. The rinds are thin and the seeds are small. Petra told me on the phone that you can eat the seeds — or have fun spitting them!
“Food is so social. Growing and sharing food is how we remember to be human,” Petra told me. So she welcomes visitors to the farm, and shares her food — and her fantastic enthusiasm — with her visitors. And she learns what appeals to her customers, which is good business.
Fruition sells seed for two interesting cabbages: Kalibos is a deep purple cabbage, cone shaped, with big hips. According to the website, it is best as a fall cabbage; sow in early or mid-July for best results. You can seed them in six-packs in early July and transplant them into the garden in early August at two-foot spacing. Harvest them in October and November to get heads of optimal size and sweetness.
Mermaid’s Tale is a cross between Kalibos and early green cone-headed cabbage. Each one is unique in color, shape and flavor: lime green to emerald with lavender to burgundy veining. Sharp or subtle flavor.
Another specialty of Fruition Seeds is their “Hope is a Verb” dahlia. Each seed is unique and each flower is different, made from innumerable crosses of dwarf and semi-dwarf collarette-style dahlias. Petra explained to me that dahlias have eight sets of chromosomes, and consequently have many ways of expressing their genes. The plants are 2 feet tall or less, with blooms 1 to 3 inches across. She said they are fabulous for short seasons and lower light conditions. I shall start some.
Lastly I shall order Spotlight Snow Peas from Fruition Seeds. Some will be green, some purple, some mixed colors. They are very early (or late if planted in early August for a fall crop), very sweet, and 3 feet tall or less. Petra says they taste great and only take 52 days to harvest!
Every company has something unique and wonderful. Buy your seeds now, as some seed companies will sell out before summer. And if you haven’t tried starting seeds indoors, I’ll tell you about that next week.
Featured photo: Hope is a Verb dahlia. Courtesy photo.
The latest from NH’s theater, arts and literary communities
• Wild Salamander owners retiring: Wild Salamander Creative Arts Center (30 Ash St., Hollis) will close its doors in June, according to an announcement on its website. Owners KC Morgan and Charlie Morgan said in the announcement that, after 10 years of running the art center, they have decided to retire. “It has been an honor, a privilege, and a great deal of fun to be a part of the journey for artists both young and old, seasoned and beginner, student and teacher,” they said. “We have made friends who will forever be a part of our lives. We look forward to finding new ways to bring awareness to the arts in our local community.” Over the last decade, Wild Salamander has hosted 2,300 classes and camps, where more than 6,000 students have been taught by 100 artists, and the center’s Whitty Gallery and Wild Little Art Shop have generated more than $120,000 for local artists, the announcement stated. Registration is open for in-person and online classes and workshops that will continue being offered through June. Programs are offered for kids and adults and include working with clay, felting, drawing, jewelry making and more. February hours for the gallery and shop are Tuesday from noon to 6 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday from 2 to 5 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit wildsalamander.com or call 465-9453.
Art for bid The New Hampshire Art Association’s permanent collection auction is open for online bidding now through Saturday, Feb. 26, closing at 5 p.m. The auction features 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. “Over the years, NHAA has been home to some very talented artists, and we are pleased to be able to offer some of their pieces to the public at very reasonable prices,” NHAA board president Renee Giffroy said in a press release. Bidders can see the pieces in person at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth). Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. To 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.
• Last call for these fabric art exhibits: Catch the “Translating Nature Into Fabric” exhibit at the Nashua Public Library (2 Court St., Nashua) before it’s gone on Saturday, Feb. 26. It features 15 art quilts by Hollis artist Ellen Fisher, with nature-based designs, such as trees and streams, inspired by Fisher’s career as a landscape designer and conservationist. “I am not as interested in making other people’s designs but very interested in figuring out my own, and I do this with great respect for the traditional quilting world,” Fisher told the Hippo last month. “I have a real root system in traditional quilting that I have just interpreted in my own way.” Most quilts are for sale. The exhibit can be viewed during library hours, which are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Visit nashualibrary.org or call 589-4600.
See the special exhibit “As Precious as Gold, Carpets from the Islamic World” at the Currier Museum of Art(150 Ash St., Manchester) before it closes on Sunday, Feb. 27. On loan from the Saint Louis Art Museum, the exhibit features 32 carpets with various geographical origins, dating from the 15th century to the 19th century, including a Spanish rug, three Egyptian rugs, Lotto and Holbein patterned carpets, a 16th-century Ushak medallion and a late 17th-century small medallion carpet. Museum admission costs $15 for adults, $13 for seniors age 65 and up, $10 for students, $5 for youth ages 13 through 17, and is free for members and children under age 13. Museum hours are Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are required for visitors age 2 and up, and proof of vaccination is required for visitors age 5 and up (at least one dose for visitors under age 12, and at least two doses for visitors age 12 and up). Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.
• A dance through life: Manchester-based theater company Theatre Kapow presents Dance Nation at the Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 25, and Saturday, Feb. 26, at 7:30 p.m. The Pulitzer Prize-finalist play by Clare Barron follows a group of pre-teen competition dancers, played by adult actors, as they navigate the challenges of growing up. “Just reading Dance Nation was like being struck by lightning,” director Wanda Strukus said in a press release. “It’s bold, intense, and fierce. It’s filled with an adolescent urgency, joy, and terror that truly feels like a force of nature.” Attendees must present proof of vaccination or a recent negative Covid test and must wear a mask to enter the theater. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for seniors age 62 and up and students. Visit tkapow.com/dancenation.
Auto oil See “Vehicular Narratives,” an exhibition of paintings by local artist William Turner, at The Art Center (located inside the Washington Mill, 1 Washington St., Suite 1177, Dover) before it’s gone on Monday, Feb. 28. Turner worked in the auto body restoration business for 30 years before becoming a full-time painter, earning BFA and MFA degrees in visual arts and painting from the former New Hampshire Institute of Art (now the Institute of Art and Design at New England College). His oil paintings, which he describes as “narrative realism,” have depicted distressed vehicles and machinery, vintage toys and stories from Greek and Roman mythology and folklore told through imagery of automobiles. All works are for sale. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with private appointments available by request. Visit theartcenterdover.com.
ART
Auctions and sales
• NEW HAMPSHIRE ART ASSOCIATION PERMANENT COLLECTION AUCTION Fundraiser auction features 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. Pieces will be on view starting Wed., Feb. 16, at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth). Online bidding will run Fri., Feb. 18, through Sat., Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Masks are required indoors. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230 to learn more.
Exhibits
• “FOR THE LOVE OF IMPRESSION” Exhibit features prints created using traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials, and technology by eight local artists who are members of the group New Hampshire Printmakers. Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook). Now through March 5. All pieces are for sale. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.
• “SETTING THE STANDARD” Exhibit features new work from League jurors in all media areas. League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters, 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. Now through March 31. Regular exhibition hours are Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. Visit nhcrafts.org.
• “ARGHAVAN KHOSRAVI” Artist’s surrealist paintings explore themes of exile, freedom and empowerment; center female protagonists; and allude to human rights issues, particularly those affecting women and immigrants. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view April 14 through Sept. 5. Museum admission costs $15 for adults, $13 for seniors age 65 and up, $10 for students, $5 for youth ages 13 through 17 and is free for children under age 13 and museum members. Current museum hours are Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday through Wednesday. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.
• “ECHOES: ABSTRACT PAINTING TO MODERN QUILTING” Exhibit features abstract paintings inspired by the bold colors, asymmetry, improvisational layout, alternate grid work and negative space in composition of modern quilting. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). April 22 through May 14. Visit twovillagesart.org.
“NATURE AT NIGHT: PAINTINGS BY OWEN KRZYZANIAK GEARY” Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). May 27 through June 18. Visit twovillagesart.org.
Workshops and Classes
• PASTEL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Feb. 26, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.
• WINTER ART CLASSES Art classes for teens and adults, including Pottery, Stained Glass, Intermediate Watercolor and Clay Hand Building. Studio 550 Art Center (550 Elm St., Manchester). Five-week sessions. Classes met for two hours a week. Call 232-5597 or visit 550arts.com for the full schedule and cost details.
• DRAWING & PAINTING CLASSES Art House Studios, 66 Hanover St., Suite 202, Manchester. Classes include Drawing Fundamentals, Painting in Acrylic, Drawing: Observation to Abstraction, Exploring Mixed Media, and Figure Drawing. Class sizes are limited to six students. Visit arthousestudios.org.
• GENERAL ART CLASSES Weekly art classes offered for both kids and adults of all skill levels and cover a variety of two-dimensional media, including drawing and painting with pastel, acrylic, watercolor and oils. Classes are held with small groups of three to eight to five students. Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Kids classes, open to ages 10 and up, are held on Thursdays and Fridays, from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. Adult classes are held on Thursdays, from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Tuition is pay-as-you-go at $20 per student per class, due upon arrival. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com for availability.
THEATER
Shows
• LIFESPAN OF A FACT Produced by Lend Me a Theater. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Now through March 6. Showtimes are 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.
• DEADLY Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents an original movement-based theater piece by Crystal Rose Welch. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., March 4, through Sun., March 6. Visit cztheatre.com.
• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.
• BYE BYE BIRDIE Mainstage production by The Palace Theatre. 80 Hanover St., Manchester. March 11 through April 3. Tickets range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.
• CHICKEN LITTLE presented by Upside Arts. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). March 12 through March 20, with showtimes on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $18 for adults and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.
• PUFFS! OR SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., April 29, through Sun., May 1. Visit cztheatre.com.
• MUSICAL MOM Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). May 5 through May 15. Showtimes are on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $22 for students, seniors and members and $19 for senior members. Visit hatboxnh.com.
• LAST GAS Produced by the Community Players of Concord. Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St., Concord. Fri., May 6, through Sun., May 8. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $16 for youth ages 17 and under, $16 for seniors age 65 and up. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org.
• THE BALD SOPRANO Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). June 17 through June 26. Showtimes are 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.
Classical
• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.
Lecture series brings free music and more to the Capital City
With a lineup that’s heavy on music, the Walker Lecture Series is starting its spring season of free community events, which will include tribute bands, a string quartet, travelogs and an exploration of the art of silent film.
“We do try to make sure to include some conventional lectures to be true to our name,” Walker Lecture Series Trustee Jon Kelly said. “There is more music this season than usual — some of that is the way Covid worked out.”
No programs were canceled due to Covid in the past two years, with some presenters opting to speak or perform via Zoom, or to use rented space at the Hatbox Theatre to allow for social distancing, but most of the musical acts opted to postpone their shows until it was safe to play live at Concord City Auditorium.
“We found that lecturers could still do a wonderful presentation, but musicians found that Zoom did not work for [them] the way it would for a speaker,” Kelly said.
The Walker Lecture Series has presented programs since 1896, using funds from a trust gifted to the City of Concord by lifelong resident Abigail B. Walker with the provision that the series offers free lectures on “subjects of history, literature, art or science, and free dramatic, musical, literary, historical and other cultural events” in Concord, according to the terms of the trust.
Music tends to bring in the biggest crowds, Kelly said, so musical acts have increased in recent years, even aside from the Covid factor. Kelly himself is looking forward to hearing Artful Noise this season.
“I don’t know very much about classical music and string quartets, [and] this is a great opportunity to expose myself to something new,” he said.
The musical genres vary greatly for this series, and that’s no accident. Kelly said that a Beatles tribute band was a huge success, with a large audience and people up dancing, while an opera was not as well-attended — and that’s OK, he said.
“We love having a full house, but we also love bringing an opportunity that might not have existed otherwise to the community,” he said. “It still brings value.”
This season’s musical offerings are no different in their variety, with the string quartet, some a cappella, a night of doo-wop, a tribute to Chicago and a tribute to Johnny Cash. The latter could appeal to many, Kelly said.
“Older people remember him from when he was touring with Elvis in the ’50s, but younger people who saw [Walk the Line] know him from that,” Kelly said. “He really spoke across the generations.”
Two of this season’s programs are travelogs, presented by travel photographers and filmmakers; one is an exploration of Central and South America, and the other is a journey through Japan.
“We’ve been going since 1896, and historically there’s been an interest in travelogs — and that feels like it’s from another century because now people can watch the Travel Channel,” Kelly said. “But … what makes it different from sitting in the living room is the photographer and the videographer are in the room with you.”
The other non-music presentation of the season is a lecture called “Sennett, Chaplin, Keaton & the Art of Silent Film Comedy,” which Kelly thinks can also appeal to a broader audience.
“It’s easy for people to say [silent film is] a hundred years old, and yet people like Chaplin and Keaten were so skilled at reaching everybody [in the audience] that when you see them today, you still get that connection,” he said.
And, as with all of the programs, there’s really nothing to lose from checking it out, Kelly said.
“Here’s a chance to come and try it for free — if you find out you love it, then that’s a great gift,” he said.
Walker Lecture Series spring season
Where: Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St. When: All shows are on Wednesdays and start at 7:30 p.m. Cost: Free More info: walkerlecture.org
Schedule Feb. 23: Buskers’ Night In, produced by Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki March 2: The Rockin’ Daddios, An Evening of Doo Wop March 16: Artful Noise, a string quartet from the New Hampshire Seacoast March 23: Filmmaker Marlin Darrah explores Central and South America, an introduction to the grand natural wonders, architectural treasures, and cultural and artistic highlights of several cities and countries. March 30: Travel photographer and documentary filmmaker Brent Winebrenner presents “Japan, Land of the Rising Sun,” a multimedia presentation about its history, traditions, culture and people. April 6: Counterfeit Cash: A Tribute to Johnny Cash April 13: Patrick Anderson, film buff and Colby-Sawyer professor, presents “Sennett, Chaplin, Keaton & the Art of Silent Film Comedy.” Learn how film creates and delivers ideas, and how it shapes and reflects popular attitudes, then discuss movies and enjoy the art of silent film comedy as it was developed by three masters. April 20: An Evening of A Cappella with Mixtape and Ball in the House May 11: Introduction: Tribute to Chicago
Featured Photo: The Rockin’ Daddios will be playing at the Walker Lecture Series on Wednesday, March 2nd. Photo by Jim Brady.
By Alexandra Colella, Matt Ingersoll and Angie Sykeny
listings@admin
The calendar may still say February, but believe it or not, now is the time to get your kids signed up for summer camp — check out this guide of local organizations offering programs in everything from music, art and theater to sports, nature activities and more. Did we miss a local camp offering programs for the summer of 2022? Let us know at listings@hippopress.com, and look for late-breaking camp information in future Kiddie Pool columns.
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
Breakthrough Manchester at The Derryfield School 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, breakthroughmanchester.org What: Breakthrough Manchester is a tuition-free academic enrichment program that prepares middle school students for challenging high school coursework and helps them build a path to college. Students participate in programming year round, exploring academic classes like science and English through the lens of social justice issues impacting the local community, as well as enrichment classes like criminology, coding and more. Students also visit colleges, tour museums and historical sites, volunteer in the community and participate in Breakthrough Olympics & Spirit Day. Who: 2022 applications are open to current 6th and 7th grade students When: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 5 (no programs Monday, July 4; applications due by Feb. 24) Cost: Free
College Preparation; Find Your Voice – Jump Start Your College Essay The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/academic-and-college-prep-programs What: This virtual intensive writing workshop is designed to create a space for 11th- and 12th-graders to begin the creative process of drafting their college essay. On the final day of the workshop, a college admissions officer will provide the college perspective on the personal statement and read essay drafts. Who: Students entering grades 11 and 12 When: Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 11 a.m., dates offered June 27 to July 1 Cost: $395
Kumon Math & Reading Center 128 S. River Road, Bedford; 505 W. Hollis St., No. 103, Nashua, 897-6194; 95 Brewery Lane, No. 8, Portsmouth, 427-8456; kumon.com What: Each center offers an independent learning program for kids to freshen up their skills in math and reading. Topics covered in math include counting and number sequencing, fractions, order of operations, algebra, trigonometry and calculus. Topics covered in reading include vocabulary, phonics, sentence building and reading comprehension. Who: Grades preschool through the end of high school When: The Nashua center is open on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. The Bedford center is open Mondays from 3 to 6 p.m. The Portsmouth center is open on Mondays from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 5 p.m., Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: Varies, see website or call one of the centers directly for details.
SAT/ACT Preparation The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/academic-and-college-prep-programs What: Students will learn the universal strategies and components of the SAT and ACT, followed by individual recommendations. Students may register for a verbal session, a math session or both. Who: Students entering grades 11 and 12 When: Verbal sessions run Monday through Friday from 9:15 to 11:45 a.m., and math sessions run from 12:15 to 2:45 p.m., dates offered June 20 to June 24 or Aug. 1 to Aug. 5 Cost: Ranges from $395 for half-day sessions to $685 for full-day sessions
Thursday Mini Camps American Independence Museum, 1 Governors Lane, Exeter, 772-2622, independencemuseum.org What: Campers will get to discover what it meant to be a patriot or loyalist during the American Revolution by immersing themselves in hands-on 18th-century life. Each week, campers will dress in colonial clothing, participate in games and activities, create and make projects and eat a colonial-inspired snack. Up to three sessions are available. Who: Ages 6 to 10 When: Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered July 14, July 21 and July 28 Cost: $55 per day or $195 for all three sessions for non-members; $45 per day or $170 for all three sessions for members
ART
Creative Ventures Art Gallery411 Nashua St., Milford, 672-2500, creativeventuresfineart.com What: Programs include a “Color Your Dreams” camp, in which students create their own original artwork inspired by dreams; and a “Color Outside the Lines” camp, in which they create their own art inspired by the natural world. Beginning and experienced students are welcome. Who: Ages 8 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to noon, dates offered Aug. 1 through Aug. 4 for the “Color Outside the Lines” camp, and Aug. 8 through Aug. 11 for the “Color Your Dreams” camp Cost: $125
Kimball Jenkins School of Art 266 N. Main St., Concord, 225-3932, kimballjenkins.com/summer-camp-2022 What: Campers create works of art with different media, such as paint, clay and more, in a studio setting and outdoors. This year’s themes include Wild Animals & Nature Safari, Fantasy & Cosplay, Mythology & Folklore, Welcome to Hogwarts, Travel the World, Bam! Wow! Pop Art! and Going Green: Recycle-mania. Who: Ages 6 and up When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 Cost: $275 per week ($255 for members)
Studio 550 Kids Art Camp Studio 550 Community Art Center, 550 Elm St., Manchester, 232-5597, 550arts.com What: Programs include an Art Explorer camp, in which students sample a variety of art forms working with paint, paper, pencil and clay; and a Clay camp for teens and tweens, in which students learn the basics of the pottery wheel as well as various sculpting techniques. Who: Ages 9 and up When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. or from 2:30 to 5 p.m., dates offered July 11 through Aug. 19 Cost: $195
DANCE
Alicia’s School of Dance 563 Route 106, Loudon, 496-9762, aliciasschoolofdance.com What: Campers will learn all styles of dance, including tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical and hip-hop, and will also have the opportunity to play games and make crafts. A mini performance will be held on the last day of camp. Who: Ages 6 and up When: Monday, July 18, through Friday, July 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day Cost: $130 per child, plus a $25 required deposit; each additional child receives a 30 percent discount
Broadway Bound Performing Arts Center 501 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack, 429-8844, broadwayboundpac.com What: Programs include a Kidz Dance Workshop (ages 4 to 11), in which campers learn the basics of jazz, ballet, lyrical, musical theater and more along with games and crafts; and an Intensive Dance Workshop, in which dancers perform in a recorded studio showcase at the end of the week. Classes in tap, jazz, musical theater, ballet, lyrical and hip-hop will also be offered, in addition to Piccola’s Teddy Bear dance classes for kids ages 3 to 6. Who: Ages 3 and up When: Monday, Aug. 1, through Friday, Aug. 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Kidz Dance Workshop, and Monday, Aug. 8, through Friday, Aug. 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the Intensive Dance Workshop. Class sessions will run from Tuesday, Aug. 16, through Thursday, Aug. 25, at varying times; see website for the full schedule. Cost: $275 for the Kidz Dance Workshop and $250 for the Intensive Dance Workshop. Individual classes are $30 each; class bundles are also available for the entire session, for $75 for ages 6 to 8 and $100 for ages 8 and up.
Concord Dance Academy 26 Commercial St., Concord, 226-0200, concorddanceacademy.com What: Camps teach a variety of dance styles, including tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, ballet, tumbling and musical theater. Programs include a Mini Camp (ages 3 to 5), a Recreational Camp (ages 4 to 12), and an Intensive Camp (ages 8 to 13) designed for dancers expecting a challenge. Who: Ages 3 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a full day and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a half day; dates offered July 25 through July 29 Cost: $250 for a full day full week, and $150 for a half day full week
Martin School of Dance 288 Route 101, Suite 202, Bedford, 488-2371, martinschoolofdance.com What: Dance camps (ages 3 to 6) feature a variety of classes, games, crafts and more, with several themed weeks available. This year’s themes include Princesses & Knights, Unicorns & Dragons and Superheroes. Other programs include a summer session of dance classes for dancers ages 6 and up, and a Thrive intensive program for dancers ages 8 and up. Who: Ages 3 and up When: Dance camps are Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered June 21 through July 7. Summer dance sessions run Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., dates offered July 5 through July 21. Thrive intensive program sessions run Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered July 25 through Aug. 5 Cost: Varies, depending on the program. Call or visit the website for details.
Miss Kelsey’s Dance Studio 2626 Brown Ave., Manchester, 606-2820, mkdance.com What: Programs include a Dance Intensive camp (ages 9 and up), in which campers work on a variety of dance techniques like ballet, lyrical, contemporary, pointe, jazz, and acro; and a special Encanto-themed singing camp (ages 5 to 12). Who: Ages 5 and up When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered July 18 to July 22 for the Dance Intensive camp and July 25 to July 29 for the Encanto camp. Cost: $260
Nancy Chippendale’s Dance Studios 49 Range Road, Building No. 2, Suite A, Windham, 458-7730, chippswindham.com What: During the Princess Power camp, dancers will learn ballet, jazz and tap from modern-day “princesses.” Who: Ages 3 to 7 When: Monday, July 25, through Friday, July 29, 9 a.m. to noon each day Cost: $200
New England School of Dance 679 Mast Road, Manchester, 935-7326, newenglandschoolofdance.com What: Programs include Dinosaur, Jungle Book or Angelina Ballerina two-day mini camps (ages 3 to 6); a Kidz Kan Dance camp and a Young Dancer Intensive (ages 6 to 10); a Junior Dance Intensive (ages 10 to 13); and various intermediate and advanced classes and intensives (ages 13 and up) Who: Ages 3 and up When: Sessions run various days and times from June 28 to Aug. 27; see website for the full schedule. Cost: Varies, depending on the type of camp and the camper’s age
Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater 19 Harvey Road, Bedford, 637-4398, snhdt.org What: Programs include Princess camp and Prima Ballerina camp (girls ages 3 through 5), the Young Dancers’ Program (ages 6 through 12) for beginner and intermediate dancers, and a three-week Summer Intensive (ages 10+) for serious dancers looking to challenge themselves. Who: Girls ages 3 and up When: Sessions run various days/weeks from Tuesday, June 28, through Friday, Aug. 12 Cost: $165 for Princess and Prima Ballerina camp, $225 for Young Dancers; Intensive ranges from $750 to $1,500, depending on number of weeks
GENERAL INTEREST
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central New Hampshire Locations in Allenstown, Andover, Bradford, Concord, Epsom, Hopkinton, Laconia, Penacook, Warner and Weare, 224-1061, centralnhclubs.org What: Each center offers general camps and specialty camps, including Cooking Camp, Art Camp, Hiking Camp, Teen Trip Camp and Sports Camp. Who: Children entering kindergarten through 8th grade. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: $160 per week if you register before May 1 ($185 per week after May 1)
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem 3 Geremonty Drive, Salem, 898-7709, salembgc.org What: Activities will include swimming, outdoor play, arts and crafts, weekly field trips and more. Who: Ages 4 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8:45 to 4:30 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 26 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: $225 per week, plus a $25 one-time registration fee
Boys & Girls Club of Manchester Camp Foster, Kidz Camp and Summer teen program, 36 Camp Allen Road, Bedford; Union Street Clubhouse, 555 Union St., Manchester; 625-5031, begreatmanchester.org What: Each camper will be able to choose a program based on their interests and will participate and be grouped with campers of similar age. A wide variety of activities is offered each day. Who: Kidz Camp is for kids entering kindergarten. Camp Foster is for kids entering grades 1 through 7. A summer teen program is also available for students entering 8th grade. When: Various days and times, dates offered June 20 through Aug. 26. Cost: Each week can be reserved with a $25 deposit per balance of $130 (balance of $110 for the third week due to July 4)
Brentwood Recreation Day Camp 190 Route 125, Brentwood, hosted by the Brentwood Parks & Recreation Department, 642-6400, brentwoodnh.gov/recreation What: Traditional day camp with activities like weekly field trips, water and non-water games, arts and crafts, team-building activities, yoga and more. Who: Children entering grades 1 through 6 When: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 (no camp on Monday, July 4). Before and after care are also available. Cost: Online registration is a $100 deposit required to hold your spot.
Camp 60313 Blevens Drive, Concord, 568-8107, camp603.com What: Activities include trips to Lake Winnisquam for waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing and other water sports; Mount Major, Mount Cardigan and other local mountains for days of hiking; and Hampton Beach for beach trips, swimming and more. Who: Ages 10 to 17 When: Weekly sessions run from Monday through Friday, dates offered July 5 through Aug. 5 Cost: $850 per week for five-day sessions ($680 per week for the first week, as it is only a four-day session)
Camp Adventure Auburn Parks & Recreation, 483-5052, ext. 101, recreation@townofauburnnh.com What: During this one-week full-day summer camp, kids will travel on field trips throughout the state, including to the beach, lakes, water parks and more. Who: Ages 3 to 15 When: Sessions are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; two weeks are offered, from Monday, July 25, through Friday, July 29, and from Monday, Aug. 1, through Friday, Aug. 5 Cost: $279 per week (registration is open now for Auburn residents and will open on May 1 for non-residents.
Camp Carpenter 300 Blondin Road, Manchester; hosted by Daniel Webster Council, Boy Scouts of America, 625-6431, nhscouting.org What: Campers will enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, archery, BB guns, STEM projects, boating, crafts and field sports. Overnight and day options available. Who: Grades 1 through 5 When: Sessions are Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 12. Overnight sleepover camp sessions are also available. Cost: Starts at $330
Camp Coolio New Boston Central School, 15 Central School Road, New Boston, hosted by the New Boston Parks & Recreation Department, 487-2880, newbostonnh.gov What: Activities include field trips, sports, games, crafts and more, with a total of seven themed weeks throughout the summer. This year’s themes are Scientist Week, Explorers Week, Wacky Water Week, Sports Week, Under the Sea Week, Around the World Week and Nature Week. Who: Ages 6 to 12 When: Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 5 (no camp on Monday, July 4). Cost: $240 per week ($192 for the week of July 4 due to it being a shortened week)
Camp Kettleford26 Camp Allen Road, Bedford, hosted by Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, 888-474-9686, girlscoutsgwm.org What: Set on 30 wooded acres on the shore of Sebbins Pond, this traditional day camp features swimming, boating, archery, cooking out, horseback riding, day trips and more. Who: Girls entering kindergarten through 8th grade When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies depending on the week and the camper’s age; see website for details
Camp Lincoln 67 Ball Road, Kingston, 642-3361, ymcacamplincoln.org, hosted by Southern District YMCA, sdymca.org What: During these four-week and two-week sessions, campers have ample time to learn new skills, make lifelong friends, and experience growth on a personal level. Who: Boys and girls entering grades 2 through 9 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered June 20 through Aug. 26 Cost: $750 for the four-week sessions and $500 for the two-week sessions
Camp Lovewell The Nature of Things, 10 Groton Road, Nashua, 881-4815, camplovewell.com What: Campers will enjoy hiking, field games and sports, swimming, skits and songs, kayaking, arts and crafts, a ropes course and more. Who: Ages 6 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: $380 per week for kids entering grades 1 through 3, and $370 per week for kids entering grades 4 through 9. Extended care is also available.
Camp Ponemah Hampshire Hills Athletic Club, 50 Emerson Road, Milford, 673-7123, ext. 272, hampshirehills.com/camp-ponemah What: Day camps feature activities like swimming, tennis, weekly field trips, crafts, dance parties, playgrounds, trails, games and more. Who: Kids entering kindergarten through 7th grade. A full-day camp for teenagers called Troop T is available for campers entering 8th grade, and there is also a half-day camp called Little Warriors for kids ages 3 and 4. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered June 13 through Aug. 26 Cost: Camp Ponemah is $269 per week for members and $349 for non-members. Troop T is $240 per week for members and $325 for non-members. Little Warriors is $85 for two days and $160 for four days for members and $119 for two days and $228 for four days for non-members.
Camp Seawood 350 Banfield Road, Portsmouth, hosted by Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, 888-474-9686, girlscoutsgwm.org What: Set among pine forests, wetlands and wildlife, this traditional day camp features archery, cooking out, horseback riding, day trips, nature hikes and more. Who: Camp Seawood welcomes girls who have completed pre-K through grade 8 with one-week programs. Girls who have completed 4th grade and up can participate in two-week programs that include an overnight session. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered July 11 through Aug. 19 Cost: Varies depending on the week and the camper’s grade level; see website for details
Camp Souhegan Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley, 56 Mont Vernon St., Milford, 672-1002, svbgc.org What: Daily camp activities include swimming, theater arts, science and STEM programs, cooking, sports, dance and more, all centered around a different theme each week. Who: Kids and teens entering kindergarten through 12th grade When: Weekly sessions run Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 26. Cost: $195 per week
Camp Starfish 12 Camp Monomonac Road, Rindge, 899-9590, campstarfish.org What: Camp Starfish provides structured, nurturing and fun group programs to foster the success and growth of children with emotional, behavioral or learning problems. Who: Kids and teens ages 7 to 14 (up to age 17 for returning campers) When: Weekly camps run from June 26 through Aug. 20 Cost: Rates vary depending on type of camp; see website for details
Camp Witzel Peter Woodbury School, 180 County Road, Bedford, hosted by the Bedford Parks & Recreation Department, 472-5242, bedfordreconline.com What: A traditional day camp with activities like arts and crafts, sports, swimming and weekly field trips on Wednesdays. Each week is themed; this year’s themes include Game Show Mania, Mission Impossible, Club Hollywood, Let’s Go Green, Wild & Crazy Kids, Gold Rush Week and Futuristic Fun Week. Who: Ages 6 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 5 Cost: Ranges from $115 to $245, depending on the number of days per week and the camper’s resident status
Candia Springs Adventure Camps Candia Springs Adventure Park, 446 Raymond Road, Candia, 587-2093, candiasprings.com/camps What: Campers can enjoy all that the park has to offer by participating in themed weeks that focus on education, environment, exploration and leadership. Themes have included Archery, Makers Week, Outdoor Living Skills and more. Who: Ages 7 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 Cost: $259 per week
Concord Parks & Recreation camps. Courtesy photo.
Concord Parks and Recreation City Wide Community Center, 14 Canterbury Road, Concord, 225-8690, concordnh.gov What: Programs include Stay & Play Camp (grades 1 through 5), in which kids enjoy swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, field games, sing-alongs and more; Adventure Camp (grades 3 through 8), in which campers will go on four-day trips to beaches, theme parks, and hiking and kayaking destinations; a Nature Camp (ages 5 to 8), which is based at the Lodge at White Park; and an Explorers Camp (ages 9 to 12) new for this year, in which campers explore the City of Concord’s trail system. Who: Grades 1 through 8 When: Sessions for the Stay & Play Camp and the Adventure Camp run Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 5 (no camp on Monday, July 4; week of Aug. 8 to Aug. 12 is Stay & Play Camp only). Sessions for the Nature Camp run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered June 20 to Aug. 12. The Explorers Camp runs for one week-long session, from Monday, July 11, through Friday, July 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $160/week for Concord residents and $170/week for non-residents for Stay & Play Camp; $190/week for Concord residents and $200/week for non-residents for Adventure Camp; $160/week for Concord residents and $170/week for non-residents for Nature Camp; $128 for Concord residents and $138 for non-residents for Explorers Camp
Educational Farm Camp Educational Farm at Joppa Hill, 174 Joppa Hill Road, Bedford, 472-4724, theeducationalfarm.org What: Campers will learn about animals, work in the garden, take nature hikes and help with farm chores. Who: Ages 4 to 11 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, half days from 9 a.m. to noon for kids ages 4 and 5 and full days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids ages 6 to 11, dates offered June 20 through Aug. 19 Cost: See website or call for details
Granite Base Camp 300 Blondin Road, Manchester, 617-615-0004, hosted by Base Camp, experiencebasecamp.org What: Base Camp is a network of outdoor adventure parks across New England. Campers participate in hands-on, outdoor adventures, with activities that include archery, fire building, STEM programs, outdoor cooking, fishing, swimming, hiking, creative arts and crafts and more. Who: Ages 6 to 14 When: Most sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8:15 or 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 12 Cost: $330
IMAGINE CampsNew Morning Schools, 23 Back River Road, Bedford, 669-3591, newmorningschools.com What: Campers will enjoy daily STEM experiments and exploration, a Lego club, gym games, sports skills and drills, studio art projects, fitness challenges and more. Preschool summer camps are also available, which include daily opportunities for games, crafts, songs and outdoor fun. Who: Ages 6 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday through Wednesday for the final session in late August), dates offered June 13 through Aug. 24. There will be no camp the week of Monday, July 4 Cost: $300 per week or $70 per day
Melody Pines Day Camp 510 Corning Road, Manchester, 669-9414, melodypines.com What: Traditional day camp with activities like swimming, boating, water skiing, archery, arts and crafts, Frisbee golf, treasure hunts and more. Who: Kids and teens entering kindergarten through 8th grade. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; most weeks are full but the weeks of June 13 to June 17 and Aug. 22 to Aug. 26 are still open. A waitlist is also available for the week of July 4 to July 8 Cost: $290 per week
Naticook Summer Day Camp Wasserman Park, 116 Naticook Road, Merrimack, hosted by Merrimack Parks & Recreation, 882-1046, merrimackparksandrec.org/naticook-day-camp What: Campers enjoy swimming, boating, drama, group games, archery, nature exploration, sports, arts and crafts, special events and more. Who: Kids entering kindergarten through 5th grade. Campers entering 5th grade also have the option to move up to the Camp Trek program for grades 5 through 9; see website for details. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 22 Cost: $255 per week for residents and $305 per week for non-residents. Extended care is also available.
Strawbery Banke Museum Camps 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, 433-1100, strawberybanke.org What: Campers will explore the 10-acre outdoor history museum and participate in activities led by professional crafters, archeologists, character role-players, curators and historians. Who: Ages 6 and up When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., offered various weeks from June 27 through Aug. 19 Cost: Prices vary depending on the camp and the camper’s membership status; see website for details
SummerQuest and Enrichment Camp at World Academy 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, 888-1982, worldacademynh.com What: Activities at SummerQuest (kindergarten through Grade 4) include arts and crafts, games, cooking activities and much more, all intended to encourage the child’s creativity and imagination. The Enrichment Camp (Grades 4 through 8) features a project-based learning curriculum integrating English and math skills, along with theme-based activities like swimming, field trips, and team-building exercises. Who: Kids entering kindergarten through grade 8 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for SummerQuest and from 8:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the Enrichment Camp, dates offered June 14 through Aug. 21 Cost: $310 per week for SummerQuest and $340 per week for the Enrichment Camp. Extended hours are also available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for an additional $20 per week.
TREK Adventures Camp Various locations, hosted by Merrimack Parks & Recreation, 882-1046, merrimackparksandrec.org/trek-adventures What: Camp Trek is a trip and activity-based program that operates as a subset of Merrimack’s Naticook Day Camp. Each week features a mix of traditional summer camp activities, along with four weekly field trips exploring destinations across New England. On Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays each week, campers will head out on daily field trips, while Fridays are devoted to traditional day camp activities like sports, games and team-building challenges. Who: Kids and teens entering grades 5 through 9. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26 Cost: $290 per week for residents and $340 per week for non-residents
UNH Youth Programs and Camps University of New Hampshire, Thompson Hall, 105 Main St., Durham, 862-7227, unh.edu/youthprograms What: More than 50 programs are offered in a variety of areas, from academic enrichment and creative arts to athletics, STEM and traditional camp recreation. See website for a full list. Who: Boys and girls ages 5 and up When: Various dates/times from June through August Cost: Varies depending on the program
YMCA Allard Center of Goffstown Branch of The Granite YMCA, 116 Goffstown Back Road, Goffstown, 497-4663, graniteymca.org/daycamp What: Camp Halfmoon (ages 6 to 11) and Camp Quartermoon (ages 4 and 5) feature activities like archery, swimming, creative arts, sports and field trips to state parks and beaches. Discovery Camp (6-11) has fun new weekly games and activities inside and outside. After Care Specialties (4-14) are special activities that will happen when the camp day ends, and new activities will happen each week. Swim Lessons (6-12) can happen at the end of the day for another after-camp activity. Teen Camp (12-16) is where teens will spend their summer traveling with the Y. Who: Ages 4 to 16 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday at various times, dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies; see website for details
YMCA Day Camp of Hooksett Branch of The Granite YMCA, Hooksett Memorial School, 5 Memorial Drive, Hooksett,497-4663, graniteymca.org/camps What: Campers participate in sports, archery, arts and crafts, nature, adventure and special themed days. Who: Ages 5 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s resident status. See website for details.
YMCA of Concord Branch of The Granite YMCA, 15 N. State St., Concord, 228-9622, graniteymca.org/camps What: Camp Mowkawogan (ages 5 to 11) offers activities like swimming, sports, local hikes and field trips to state parks, with different themes featured each week. Camp Squeaky Sneakers (ages 5 and 6) gives kids a chance to get a summer camp experience in a safe atmosphere of organized play at the YMCA with other campers of the same age. Drop-off location is at the Abbot Downing School (152 South St., Concord) each morning. Who: Ages 5 to 11 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s resident status. See website for details.
YMCA of Downtown Manchester Branch of The Granite YMCA, 30 Mechanic St., Manchester, 232-8632, graniteymca.org/camps What: Kids at Camp Namoskeag (ages 6 to 14) will enjoy activities like swimming, field games, sports, arts and crafts and weekly field trips. Each week has a different theme. Other programs include a sports camp (ages 6 to 14) and a teen trip camp (ages 11 to 16) in which campers travel to fun attractions across northern New England. Who: Ages 6 to 16 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 31 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s resident status. See website for details.
YMCA of Greater Londonderry Branch of The Granite YMCA, 206 Rockingham Road, Londonderry, 437-9622, graniteymca.org/camps What: Camp Pa-Gon-Ki is a traditional day camp featuring creative arts, fort-building, archery, swimming, sports, theater, nature and adventure. Camps for teens include a trip camp, where campers will travel to fun attractions around New England. Who: Ages 5 to 16 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s resident status. See website for details.
YMCA of Greater Nashua 10 Cotton Road, Suite 1, Nashua, nmymca.org/camps What: Programs include traditional, sports and arts and humanities day camp options at each of the YMCA of Greater Nashua’s branches (24 Stadium Drive, Nashua; Westwood Park, 90 Northwest Blvd., Nashua; 6 Henry Clay Drive, Merrimack), as well as at Camp Sargent (141 Camp Sargent Road, Merrimack). Who: Ages 3 and up When: Various dates offered throughout the summer, beginning in June Cost: Summer camp registration opens March 14; camp guide and registration information is expected to be available soon
YMCA of Strafford County Branch of The Granite YMCA, 35 Industrial Way, Rochester; Camp Coney Pine, 63 Lowell St., Rochester; 332-7334, graniteymca.org/camps What: Camp Coney Pine includes archery, creative arts, dance, group games, a ropes course, swimming, sports, fort-building and more. There is also a new camp for teens this year, as well as specialty camps dabbling in activities like coding, Legos and DIY art. Who: Ages 5 to 16 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s resident status. See website for details.
YMCA of the Seacoast Branch of The Granite YMCA, 550 Peverly Hill Road, Portsmouth, 431-2334, graniteymca.org/camps What: Camp Gundalow features nature exploration, swimming, a ropes course, sports, creative arts, dancing, fort-building, team-building activities, archery and more. There are also various specialty camps, featuring activities like Legos and DIY arts, as well as sports like basketball, football and soccer. Who: Ages 5 to 15 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s resident status. See website for details.
MULTIMEDIA
Animation with LEGO Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org What: Campers will learn stop-motion animation and filmmaking techniques and use Lego bricks and minifigures to complete an “Invention and Discovery” film. Who: Ages 8 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered Aug. 1 to Aug. 5 or Aug. 8 to Aug. 10 Cost: $300
Concord Community TV 170 Warren St., Concord, 226-8872, yourconcordtv.org What: Programs include a Beginner Video Camp, in which students will be introduced to the basic concepts of video production, camera operating and storyboarding and scriptwriting; and an Advanced Video Camp, in which students dive into the world of multimedia production, learning how to operate wireless microphones, lighting kits and software like Adobe After Effects. Who: Ages 11 to 15 When: Dates TBA Cost: Ranges from $115 to $145 per session, depending on the program and the camper’s residential status.
Flip the Script Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org What: A live-action movie making camp with Media Power Youth, a local nonprofit. Campers will work together to design, create, edit and star in videos, and will be challenged to tell a creative but untrue story around science, based on exhibits at the SEE Science Center; they will then flip the script and explain the true science behind the exhibit. Who: Ages 10 to 14 When: One-week session camp runs Monday, July 25, through Friday, July 29, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost: $300
Media Camps at the Londonderry Access Center. Courtesy photo.
Londonderry Access Center Media Camp281 Mammoth Road, Londonderry, 432-1147, lactv.com What: Campers will learn how to make quality videos and compose shots, using basic tools in editing and graphic design. They will learn about short-form videos and also longer television videos in a professional studio setting, where they’ll get to be the camera operator, sound technician and director. Who: Kids entering grades 5 through 8 When: Monday, July 11, through Friday, July 22, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. Cost: $80
Triple Threat Film Camp Londonderry Dance Academy, 21 Buttrick Road, Londonderry, 432-0032, triplethreattheatercamp.com What: Campers will work with a team of professionals to shoot a short film. Camera movement, production design, and editing to tell a story will all be covered. Students will have the opportunity to rotate between the roles of writer, director, camera operator, sound mixer and actor as they create their own short film. Who: Ages 8 and up When: Tuesday, July 5, through Friday, July 8, 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. each day Cost: $275
MUSIC
Concord Community Music School 23 Wall St., Concord, 228-1196, ccmusicschool.org What: Programs include a Creative Arts Camp, where campers will create musical, dance and visual arts pieces, and a Jam Camp, where campers will practice instrument and voice work in a collaborative setting. Who: Rising 1st through 6th grade for Creative Arts Camp, and rising 5th through 12th for Jam Camp When: Creative Arts Camp offered July 25 through July 29 or Aug. 1 through Aug. 5, and Jam Camp offered July 18 through July 22 Cost: $300 for Creative Arts Camp, and $250 for Jam Camp
Manchester Community Music School 2291 Elm St., Manchester, 644-4548, mcmusicschool.org What: Programs include musical exploration sessions for students in either grades 1 through 3 or grades 4 through 6. Students can spend a week trying out a musical instrument from every family, including woodwinds, string, brass and percussion; playing musical games; moving to music; and making their own musical instrument to take home. Who: Grades 1 through 6 When: Sessions are available Aug. 1 through Aug. 5 for grades 1 through 3, and Aug. 8 through Aug. 12 for grades 4 through 6 Cost: $225
Nashua Community Music School 2 Lock St., Nashua; programs also at Greeley Park Bandshell, 100 Concord St., Nashua, 881-7030, nashuacms.org What: The Nashua Community Music School will be offering these outdoor summer music camps at the Greeley Park Bandshell. This season’s themed camp weeks include How to Be a Popstar, Rise Up and Create, Broadway Week!, Musical Olympics, Broadway Babies and Music Around the World. Lessons and special summer group classes will also be held at the school’s facility in downtown Nashua. Who: Ages 4 to 14 When: Seasons runs July 11 through Aug. 19; half-day camps run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost: Ranges from $175 to $225 per week
Walden School Young Musicians Program 18 Lehmann Way, Dublin, 415-648-4710, waldenschool.org/young-musicians-program What: A residency camp where campers study musicianship, composition, improvisation, music theory, computer music and chorus at the school’s Dublin campus. Who: Ages 9 to 18 When: Three-week and five-week sessions starting on June 25. Saturday, June 27, through Sunday, Aug. 2; three-week or five-week sessions are available Cost: Call for details
NATURE
Beaver Brook Nature Camps 117 Ridge Road, Hollis, 465-7787, beaverbrook.org What: Campers will enjoy a variety of interactive outdoor experiences in small group sizes. Limited after care is also available. Who: Boys and girls age 4 to entering 9th grade When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (9 a.m. to noon for campers in pre-K and kindergarten), dates offered June 27 through Aug. 12 (no camp the week of July 4) Cost: $180 for campers in pre-K and kindergarten, $300 for campers in grades 1 through 9, and $125 for after care. Beaver Brook members receive a 10 percent discount.
Lake Discovery Family Days New Hampshire Boat Museum,399 Center St., Wolfeboro Falls, 569-4554, nhbm.org What: This program features a variety of hands-on activities related to New Hampshire’s lakes, rivers and streams, including boating safety, boat games and building, science experiments, arts and crafts, map making and more. Who: Grades K through 5 When: Thursdays, June 30, July 28 and Aug. 4, from 10:30 a.m. to noon (rain date is Aug. 12) Cost: Free
New Hampshire Audubon Nature Day Camps McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord; Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn; 224-9909, nhaudubon.org What: Programs include a half-day Wonders Camp (ages 4 and 5); Discovery Camp (ages 6 through 9), featuring hikes, crafts, storytelling, games and live animal presentations; Explorers Camp (ages 10 through 12), which includes field trips, hiking, swimming and conservation projects; and Leaders-in-Training (ages 13 through 15) for teens interested in building leadership skills and becoming camp counselors in the future. Who: Ages 4 through 15 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (9 a.m. to noon for Wonders Camp), dates offered June 20 through Aug. 12 Cost: Ranges from $160 to $290, depending on the camp and camper’s membership status
Pony Farm Summer Camp Touchstone Farm, 233 Old Temple Road, Lyndeborough, 654-6308, touchstone-farm.org What: The camp integrates horseback riding into its program, and each camper has a horse or pony of her own during her stay to ride and care for. Campers may also bring their own horses to ride. Small group riding lessons are also offered. Other activities include swimming, various games, arts and crafts, skits, singing, storytelling and more. Who: Girls ages 8 to 14 When: Sessions run from June 19 through Aug. 13 Cost: $2,100 for a one-week session ($1,050 deposit) or $4,200 for a two-week session ($2,100 deposit)
WildQuest Camp Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, 366-5695, prescottfarm.org What: Campers will participate in nature activities, animal and plant identification, arts and crafts, quests, games and hands-on learning. A different theme is featured each week. This year’s themes are Survivor, Nature Narratives, Eco Artists, Creature Feature, Kids Can Cook, Earth Detectives, Water, Water Everywhere, STEAM Team, and A Little Bit of Everything. Who: Ages 4 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26. Extended care is also available. Cost: Varies, depending on the week and the camper’s age
OVERNIGHT
Some general interest camps also offer overnight options; see listings in that section for those details.
Camp Allen 56 Camp Allen Road, Bedford, 622-8471, campallennh.org What: Activities include nature exploration, creative arts, games, sports, music and more. Residential and day camp options available. Who: Campers ages 6 and up When: Sessions run various days and durations. Residential camp runs from June 12 to Aug. 26. Day camp runs from June 20 to Aug. 19 Cost: Day camp programs are $450 per week; residential camp programs range from $1,000 to $2,200 per week
Camp Bell/Hidden Valley Scout Camp Griswold Scout Reservation, Places Mill Road and Griswold Lane, Gilmanton Iron Works, hosted by Daniel Webster Council, Boy Scouts of America, 625-6431, nhscouting.org What: Hidden Valley features shooting sports, STEM activities, welding, ecology, Scoutcraft/survival skills and more. Camp Bell features ATVs, horseback riding, ropes courses, paddleboards, motor boating and more. Who: Boys ages 11 through 20 and girls ages 14 through 20 When: Sessions run Sunday through Saturday at full weeks or half weeks, dates offered June 26 through Aug. 20 Cost: TBA; registration details coming soon
Camp Bernadette 83 Richards Road, Wolfeboro, 931-5500, bfcamp.com What: Traditional overnight camp for girls, with activities like swimming, kayaking, canoeing, baseball, softball, lacrosse, ropes courses, archery, arts and crafts and more. Who: Girls ages 6 to 16 When: Residential camp runs for two-week, four-week, six-week or eight-week sessions, dates offered June 26 to Aug. 13 Cost: Starts at $1,750 per two-week session
Camp Birch Hill 333C Birch Hill Road, New Durham, 859-4525, campbirchhill.com What: Campers can choose their own schedule from more than 50 activities, including land sports, boating, arts and crafts, zip-lining, rock-climbing, ropes courses and more. Who: Boys and girls ages 6 to 16 When: Two-, four- and six-week sessions run various days/weeks from Sunday, June 26, through Saturday, Aug. 6 Cost: Starts at $3,600 for a two-week session
Camp Brookwoods 34 Camp Brookwoods Road, Alton, 875-3600, christiancamps.net What: A Christian-based outdoor camping experience for boys Who: Boys ages 8 to 16 When: Various one-week, two-week, four-week or eight-week sessions are available, dates offered June 26 to Aug. 20 (some weeks are full or have waiting lists; visit the website for the most up to date status) Cost: Starts at $1,235 for a one-week session and $2,495 for a two-week session
Camp Deer Run 34 Camp Brookwoods Road, Alton, 875-3600, christiancamps.net What: A Christian-based outdoor camping experience for girls Who: Girls ages 8 to 16 When: Various one-week, two-week, four-week or eight-week sessions are available, dates offered June 26 to Aug. 20 (some weeks are full or have waiting lists; visit the website for the most up to date status) Cost: Starts at $1,235 for a one-week session and $2,495 for a two-week session
Camp Deerwood Route 3, Deerwood Road, Holderness, 279-4237, campdeerwood.com What: A resident camp for boys with activities like ceramics, mountain biking, riflery, archery, tennis, woodworking, canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, swimming and more. Who: Boys ages 8 to 15 When: One full eight-week session or two half four-week sessions are available, dates offered June 25 through Aug. 13 Cost: $5,500 for a half session and $9,700 for the full session
Camp Fatima 32 Fatima Road, Gilmanton Iron Works, 931-5500, bfcamp.com What: Traditional overnight camp for boys, with activities like swimming, kayaking, canoeing, baseball, softball, lacrosse, ropes courses, archery, arts and crafts and more. Who: Boys ages 6 to 16 When: Residential camp runs for two-week, four-week or six-week sessions, dates offered June 26 to Aug. 13 Cost: Starts at $1,750 per two-week session
Camp Foss 242 Willey Pond Road, Strafford, 269-3800; hosted by the Granite YMCA, 232-8642, graniteymca.org What: Campers enjoy a traditional camp experience with arts and crafts, archery, various sports, swimming, whitewater rafting, ropes courses and more. Who: Girls ages 8 through 15 When: One-week sessions offered each week from Sunday, June 26, through Saturday, Aug. 13; two-week sessions are offered from Sunday, June 26, through Saturday, Aug. 6 Cost: $1,200 for one week and $2,100 for two weeks; discounts are available for New Hampshire residents and YMCA members
Camp Fully Involved New Hampshire State Fire Academy, 222 Sheep Davis Road, Concord, info@campfullyinvolved.com, campfullyinvolved.com What: Camp for girls considering a career in firefighting or emergency medical services. Curriculum provides a comprehensive overview of the firefighting profession through hands-on drills and activities. Please note that this camp is very intense and physically demanding. Who: Girls ages 14 through 20 When: Sunday, July 24, through Friday, July 29 Cost: $350
Camp Gottalikeachallenge Brewster Academy, 80 Academy Drive, Wolfeboro; Lions Camp Pride, 180 Lions Camp Pride Way, New Durham; 868-2140, campgottalikeachallenge.org What: Camp Gottalikeachallenge is a one-week overnight creativity camp. Campers dabble in plenty of hands-on learning and challenging activities, from muscle-stretching games to programs focusing on critical thinking, leadership skills, problem-solving and teamwork. Who: Ages 10 to 14 (going into grades 5 to 9) When: Overnight sessions run Sunday through Friday, dates offered July 24 to July 29 and Aug. 7 to Aug. 12 Cost: $350 for the day camp and $775 for the overnight camp; financial assistance is available. A 10 percent early-bird discount applies for registrations by March 31.
Camp Mi-Te-Na 65 YMCA Road, Alton, 776-3000; hosted by the Granite YMCA, 232-8642, graniteymca.org What: Campers enjoy a traditional camp experience with arts and crafts, archery, various sports, swimming, whitewater rafting, ropes courses and more. Who: Boys ages 8 through 15 When: One- and two-week sessions offered from Sunday, June 26, through Saturday, Aug. 20 Cost: $1,200 for one week and $2,100 for two weeks; discounts are available for New Hampshire residents and YMCA members
Camp Quinebarge 100 Sibley Road, Moultonborough, 253-6029, campquinebarge.com What: An overnight camp offering activities like swimming, boating, fencing, archery, horseback riding, ropes courses, a zip-line and much more. Who: Ages 7 to 15 When: Residential camp runs for two-week, four-week, six-week or eight-week sessions, dates offered June 26 to Aug. 20 Cost: Starts at $3,400 per two-week session
Camp Sno Mo Hidden Valley Reservation, 260 Griswold Lane, Gilmanton Iron Works, hosted by Easterseals, 364-5818, easterseals.com/nh What: Campers participate in aquatics, a ropes course, shooting sports, arts and crafts, fishing, hiking ecology and more. Who: Children and young adults ages 11 through 21 with disabilities and special needs When: Sessions run overnight Sunday to Friday, dates offered June 26 through Aug. 26 Cost: TBA: registration details will be available soon
Camp Walt Whitman 1000 Cape Moonshine Road, Piermont, 1-800-657-8282, campwalt.com What: An co-ed overnight camp offering activities like ceramics, woodworking, drama and music programs, ropes courses, weekly hikes, whitewater rafting, sports and more. A one-week program for families is also available in August. Who: Boys and girls entering grades 2 through 10 When: Full and half-length sessions are available, dates offered June 25 through Aug. 12. The one-week Family Camp runs from Monday, Aug. 15, through Friday, Aug. 19 Cost: Ranges from $7,650 to $14,200; the cost for the one-week Family Camp is $700 for adults, $500 for kids ages 4 to 17 and free for kids ages 3 and under
Cohen Camps Camp Tel Noar,167 Main St., Hampstead, 329-6931, camptelnoar.org; Camp Tevya,1 Mason Road, Brookline, 673-4010, camptevya.org; cohencamps.org What: Jewish educational and cultural camps where campers will enjoy swimming, boating, outdoor learning, athletics, arts and crafts, plus shira (singing) and rikud (Israeli dancing). Who: Grades 3 through 10 When: Session dates offered Wednesday, June 29, through Wednesday, Aug. 17 Cost: Starts at $6,000 for a three-and-a-half-week session
Water Monkey Camp in New Durham. Courtesy photo.
Water Monkey Camp 298 Merrymeeting Road, New Durham, 617-855-9253, watermonkeycamp.com What: Campers will enjoy wakeboarding, waterskiing, wakesurfing and wakeskating on Merrymeeting Lake in New Durham. Who: Ages 10 through 17 When: Sessions run Sunday through Saturday, dates offered June 19 through Aug. 6 Cost: $2,500/week, all-inclusive. Sibling discounts of $300 are also available.
Windsor Mountain Summer Camp 1 World Way, Windsor, 478-3166, windsormountain.org What: A co-ed overnight camp offering a variety of activities, including sports, arts, music, swimming, boating, ropes courses, cooking, videography and more. Who: Ages 7 through 16 When: Two sessions are offered, lasting either two weeks or four weeks. Dates run June 28 through July 23, and July 26 through Aug. 20, with mini sessions also available within those dates Cost: Varies, depending on the length of the session
SCIENCE
Brainwave STEAM Camps The Nature of Things, 10 Groton Road, Nashua, 881-4815, enrich2day.com What: A variety of STEAM day camps with themes such as Legos, animation, Minecraft engineering and architecture, illustration, visual art and more. Who: Ages 6 through 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered June 27 through Aug. 26 Cost: Ranges from $320 to $400 per week, depending on the session; includes all supplies. Extended care is also available at an additional cost.
Camp Invention Locations in Amherst, Merrimack and Strafford, 800-968-4332, invent.org What: Program immerses elementary school children in hands-on STEM activities that reinvent summer fun, led by local educators. Campers can choose a camp where they make their own robotic cricket, design and operate their own virtual park, invent things at a maker studio or test experiments in a lab. Who: Grades K through 6 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, beginning in June Cost: Ranges from $245 to $250, depending on the camp location
Camp Summer Science SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org What: This one-week science camp features several science exploration topics through hands-on activities. This year’s topics are Slimy Science, Brain Games, Exhibit Design Lab and Reverse Engineering. Who: Ages 7 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered July 11 to July 15, or July 18 to July 22 Cost: $300
FIRST Place Lego Invention Challenge Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org What: Campers use Lego Mindstorms robots in small teams to design, build and program autonomous robots and will have an opportunity to try out in an upcoming FIRST Lego League Challenge. Who: Ages 9 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered July 18 to July 22 or July 25 to July 29 Cost: $300
iD Tech Program Southern New Hampshire University, 2500 N. River Road, Manchester, 888-709-8324, iDtech.com What: Campers will learn to code, design video games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, model 3D characters, build websites, print 3D models and more. Who: Ages 10 to 17 When: Days and times vary, dates offered June 27 through Aug. 5. Cost: Starts at $1,079 per week
iSpy Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org What: A new program offered by the SEE Science Center this year, iSpy Camp gives campers an introduction to crime scene investigation and forensic science and espionage through a variety of critical thinking projects and hands-on experiences. Who: Ages 8 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered Aug. 1 to Aug. 5, or Aug. 8 to Aug. 10 Cost: $300
LEtGO Your Mind STEM Program 15 locations throughout New Hampshire, in Amherst, Bedford, Concord, Derry, Dover, Durham, Londonderry, Manchester, Nashua, New London, Pelham, Portsmouth, Salem, Strafford and Windham, 731-8047, letgoyourmind.com What: Campers explore STEM subjects through activities with Lego bricks, motors, simple machine elements, robotics, stop-motion animation and programming Minecraft. Who: Ages 4 through 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 12. Half days from 9 a.m. to noon are also available for kids ages 4 and 5 in certain locations Cost: Varies, depending on the location, the camper’s age and the length of each session; see website for details.
Manchester Community College Camps 1066 Front St., Manchester, 206-8161, manchestercc.edu What: MCC offers week-long summer day camps for students entering 6th through 8th grades, as well as a separate track for those entering 3rd through 6th grades. Programs include Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs, STEM Camp, Solid Modeling, Robotics Camp and a Girl’s Career Camp Who: Grades 3 through 8 (varies depending on the camp) When: Sessions run Monday through Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., various dates offered from July 11 through Aug. 11, depending on the camp Cost: $175
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center 2 Institute Drive, Concord, 271-7827, starhop.com What: Campers will learn about astronomy, aviation and Earth science through hands-on activities and adventures. This year’s seven themes are Codename: Robot Camp, Storm Chasers, Up, Up and Away!, Biology Blitz, Blast Off!, Discover the Dinosaurs, and Star Hunters. Who: General age range is 5 to 14 but varies depending on the program theme When: Most sessions run Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2 or 3 p.m., dates offered are June 27 to Aug. 12 (no programs on Monday, July 4) Cost: Generally ranges from $276 to $345 per week, depending on the camp theme
Seacoast Science Center 570 Ocean Blvd., Rye, 436-8043, ext. 16, seacoastsciencecenter.org What: In Treks 4 Tots (ages 4 and 5) and Seaside Safari (grades K through 5), campers will explore the seven different habitats in Odiorne Point State Park as well as the live animal exhibits and hands-on exhibits in the center to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Safari Stewards (grades 6 through 8) is a field trip program. Each session will have its own theme. See website for details. A marine biology camp is also available for high school students. Who: Pre-K through high school When: Sessions for Treks 4 Tots and Seaside Safari run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (half-day option available for Treks 4 Tots, from 9 a.m. to noon), dates offered June 20 through Aug. 26. Dates for Safari Stewards vary, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 11 through July 15, Aug. 1 through Aug. 5, and Aug. 15 through Aug. 19. Marine biology camp runs Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered July 18 through July 22 Cost: Varies depending on the length of the session and the camper’s membership status
SeaPerch Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org What: SeaPerch is an innovative underwater robotics program. Campers will be guided through the nuts and bolts of building their own remotely operated vehicle. They’ll learn about robotics, engineering, science and math within a marine science context. Who: Ages 13 to 17 When: A one-week session runs Monday, July 11, through Friday, July 15, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day Cost: $300
SPORTS
Auburn Parks & Recreation Summer Basketball Camp 483-5052, auburnnh.us/parks-andrecreation What: Campers will have the opportunity to work on ball handling and defensive skills as well as how to move and handle themselves on the court, practicing in daily full scrimmages. Who: Students entering grades 5 through 8 When: A one-week session for kids entering grades 5 through 8 will be held from Monday, July 11, through Friday, July 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $199 for the full week
Caramba Skills Soccer Camp Locations in Concord, Nashua and Chichester, 496-3579, soccerskillscamp.org What: Soccer program specializes in skill development for goaltenders, defenders, midfielders and strikers. Players are divided by age for the first half of the day, then by ability level for the second half. Who: Grades 1 through 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, times vary depending on the location (half-day option available), dates offered July 11 through Aug. 4 Cost: $225 per week for a full-day program, and $145 per week for a half-day program
Challenger Sports Soccer Camps Various NH locations, 800-878-2167, ext. 280, challengersports.com What: Campers will develop core soccer skills and understanding of the game as well as sportsmanship and leadership skills. This year’s programs take place in conjunction with the Hopkinton Recreation Department, the Weare Athletic Club, the New Boston Recreation Department, the Gilford Parks & Recreation Department and the Meredith Parks & Recreation Department. Who: Ages 3 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday; exact dates and times vary depending on the location; see website for details Cost: Varies, depending on the camp and the location
The Derryfield School Field Hockey Skills & Shooting 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/sports-camps What: Derryfield School head field hockey coach Kelsey Federico will lead this three-day camp. The first hour will focus on the fundamentals of passing and receiving for players of all positions, and the camp will then progress into goal scoring drills. Who: Rising 7th- to 12th-grade field hockey players When: Sessions run Monday through Wednesday, from 1 to 3 p.m., dates offered June 20 to June 22 or Aug. 8 to Aug. 10 Cost: $150
The Derryfield School Field Hockey Goalkeeping Camp 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/sports-camps What: Derryfield School head field hockey coach Kelsey Federico will lead this three-day camp, which will focus on the fundamentals of saving and clearing, as well as diving, split saves and more. Who: Rising 7th- to 12th-grade field hockey players When: Sessions run Monday through Wednesday, from 2 to 4 p.m., dates offered June 20 to June 22 or Aug. 8 to Aug. 10 Cost: $150
The Derryfield School Girls Basketball Camp 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/sports-camps What: Run by Derryfield School faculty member Courtney Cheetham, this camp will include skills stations, breakout groups, games, a contest of the day and other activities revolving around basketball. Who: Girls entering grades 4 through 10 When: Dates TBA Cost: $250
The Derryfield School Summer Strength & Conditioning 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/sports-camps What: Program focuses on the essentials of foam rolling, mobility and motor control, as well as proper strength training and conditioning, to maximize the results of a camper’s performance and minimize the risk of injury. Who: Rising 9th-graders to newly graduated 12th-graders When: Sessions run June 21 through Aug. 11 Cost: Ranges from $220 to $460, depending on the number of sessions taken and the length of each
Foster’s Golf Camp Derryfield Park, 581 Bridge St., Manchester, 622-1553, fostersgolfcamp.com What: Campers travel to different par-3 courses across New Hampshire and participate in practice clinics, chipping and putting contests, time on the driving range and at least nine holes of golf with instruction. Trophies and certificates are awarded at the end of the session. Drop-offs and pick-ups are at Derryfield Park in Manchester. Golf camps take place at a variety of locations, depending on the day of the week. Who: Ages 7 to 16 of all experience levels. When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 26 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: $325 per week
Granite State Lacrosse Camp Joppa Fields, 176 Joppa Hill Road, Bedford, 867-9421, granitestatelacrosse.com What: Boys of all abilities and positions will learn lacrosse skills and take part in full-field games to work on team concepts taught earlier in the day. Each camp also features a goalie school. Who: Boys ages 5 to 17 When: Sessions run Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon, dates offered June 27 to June 30, July 11 to July 14 and July 25 to July 28 Cost: $195
Hogan Camps Various NH locations, 340-1719, hogancamps.com What: Specialty basketball and soccer camps under the direction of Paul Hogan, Director of Athletics and longtime men’s basketball coach at NHTI in Concord. Programs include the Point Guard Basketball Camp, Rip City Basketball Camp, Shooter’s Gold Basketball Camp and a Specialty Basketball Camp Who: Boys and girls entering 1st grade and up; individual camps vary on the age range When: Sessions run various days and times, tentatively beginning the week of June 20 Cost: Varies, depending on the camp
Junior Fitness Camp Executive Health and Sports Center, 1 Executive Way, Manchester, 624-9300, ext. 206, ehsc.com What: Campers receive instruction in tennis, golf and basketball and will take classes in yoga, Zumba and healthy eating. They also participate in group exercise classes, arts and crafts, team games and outdoor pool. Who: Ages 5 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 20 through Aug. 12 (no camp on Monday, July 4) Cost: Call for details
Magic Touch Soccer Academy 120 Huse Road, Manchester, 232-2314, magictouchsoccer.com What: This soccer camp is oriented around a playful and game-like atmosphere with a focus on building a player’s technical skills, using music as a unique foundation to teach creative flair with the ball. Who: Boys and girls entering grades 9 through 12 When: Sunday, Aug. 7, through Thursday, Aug. 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: $140
NH Climbing Camps NH Climbing and Fitness, 10 Langdon Ave, Concord, nhclimbinggym.com What: Programs include Summer Indoor Camp, in which campers can learn basic top-rope climbing; and NH Adventure Camp, in which campers take hiking-based field trips across the state. Each day is loaded with top-rope climbing of the facility’s 40-foot walls, bouldering games, crafts and more. Who: Ages 6 to 12 When: Summer Indoor Camp sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and NH Adventure Camp sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 27 through Aug. 19 for both programs. Cost: Varies; see website for details
NH Hoop SkillsStan Spirou Field House at Southern New Hampshire University, 2500 N. River Road, Manchester, 645-9662, nhhoopskills.com What: A basketball camp for girls featuring SNHU women’s basketball coach Karen Pinkos as the director. Campers learn the basic fundamentals, rules and sportsmanship of basketball through fun-filled instruction and exercises. Who: Girls entering grades 2 through 9 When: Session One runs Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered June 27 through June 30. Session Two dates TBA Cost: $255
NH Tomahawks Girls Lacrosse Camp Back River Sports Complex, 15 Camp Allen Road, Bedford; Joppa Fields, 176 Joppa Hill Road, Bedford; girls.nhtomahawks.com What: Players will be divided by position, age and ability, and will focus on improving fundamental skills in lacrosse, including offensive moves, shooting, cutting, feeding and one-on-one defense. Goalies will have specific training and integrate in with the rest of the camp for game play. Who: Girls ages 5 to 17 When: Three weekly sessions run from 9 a.m. to noon this year, dates offered Monday, June 27, through Thursday, June 30, at the Back River Sports Complex; Monday, July 11, through Thursday, July 14, at Joppa Fields; and Monday, July 25, through Thursday, July 28, also at Joppa Fields Cost: $195
Nike Basketball Camps Locations in Manchester, Derry, Nashua and Hampton, 800-645-3226, ussportscamps.com/basketball/nike What: Camp for basketball players who want to improve their skills. Includes lectures, team games and daily emphasis on fundamental development. Who: Boys and girls ages 8 to 16. When: Sessions run Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dates vary depending on the location; see website for details. Cost: Most camps range from $299 to $335 per week, but may vary depending on the location
Pro Ambitions Hockey Day Camps Tri-Town Ice Arena, 311 W. River Road, Hooksett; Conway Arena, 5 Stadium Drive, Nashua; proambitions.com What: At the Battle Camp, players learn skating skills and game theory elements while engaging in a situational battle. The Boston Bruins Camp features training in all aspects of ice hockey, plus daily appearances and autograph sessions with members of the Boston Bruins organization. A goaltending camp is also offered. Who: Ages 6 to 16 When: The Battle Camp and the goaltending camp both run from Tuesday, July 5, through Friday, July 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Boston Bruins camps run from Monday, July 18, through Friday, July 22, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $699 per week
Seacoast United Soccer ClubLocations in Bedford, Concord, Milford, Epping, Portsmouth and Nottingham, seacoastunited.com What: Campers are introduced to the Seacoast United Soccer Club’s developmental approach to the sport of soccer through competitive games and clinics with fun technical challenges and gameplay. Who: Ages 6 to 15 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, multiple dates and times offered from June 27 through Aug. 26 (no camps on Monday, July 4) Cost: Ranges from $124 to $245, depending on the week
Soccer Sphere Summer Soccer Camp Various NH locations, soccersphere.org What: Programs include day and residential soccer camps, high school preseason training, goalkeeper training and more. Who: Boys and girls ages 5 and up When: Four-day sessions run at various days and times, dates offered June 20 through Aug. 5 Cost: Ranges from $120 to $265, depending on the camp’s location and the number of sessions taken per week
UNH Wildcats Camps University of New Hampshire, 145 Main St., Durham, 862-1850, unhwildcats.com What: Programs offered for basketball, field hockey, gymnastics, track and field, football, soccer, volleyball and more. Day and overnight options are available. Who: Boys and girls entering kindergarten through 12th grade When: Sessions run various days/weeks, beginning the week of June 20 (some dates TBA; see website for the full up-to-date schedule) Cost: Varies depending on the camp
THEATER
Bedford Youth Performing Company 155 Route 101, Bedford, 472-3894, bypc.org What: Offers a variety of dance and musical theater camps, plus music and movement camps for preschoolers. Who: Age 3 through grade 9, vary by camp When: Dates and times vary by camp, dates offered June 13 through Aug. 19 Cost: $275 for preschool camps and $375 for dance and musical theater camps
The Derryfield School Repertory Theatre Camp 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/theatre-camp What: Campers will practice acting, singing, script writing, dance and improvisation and participate in a performance at the end of the camp. Who: Rising 4th through 12th grade When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered July 11 through July 22, and July 25 through Aug. 5 Cost: $600
The Majestic Theatre 880 Page St., Manchester, 669-7469, majestictheatre.net What: Campers will learn the basics of music, theater and dance through activities and will prepare for a performance to be held at the end of the session. “CandyLand” and “RockStar” are week-long half-day camps for ages 5 through 7. “Twinderella” is a two-week full-day camp for ages 8 through 14, and “The Claw” is a one-week full-day camp for ages 8 through 14. Who: Ages 5 through 14 When: “CandyLand” runs June 27 through July 2; “RockStar” runs Aug. 1 through Aug. 6; “Twinderella” runs July 11 through July 23; and “The Claw” runs July 25 through July 30. Cost: “CandyLand” and “RockStar” cost $160, “Twinderella” costs $325, and “The Claw” costs $225.
Merrimack Summer Stage Wasserman Park Theater, 116 Naticook Road, Merrimack, hosted by Merrimack Parks & Recreation, 882-1046, merrimackparksandrec.org/summer-stage What: In this week-long theater camp, participants will learn about scene acting, vocal work, dance and creative movement, theater games and improvisation. Campers will work together to produce a theatrical program that will be performed on the last day of the program. This year the production will be The Lion King. When participants are not rehearsing, fun crafts and activities will be supervised by staff. Who: Ages 8 through 15 When: Monday, Aug. 1, through Friday, Aug. 5, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $220 for Merrimack residents and $230 for non-residents. Sibling discounts are also available.
Triple Threat Theater Camp Londonderry Dance Academy, 21 Buttrick Road, Londonderry, 432-0032, triplethreattheatercamp.com What: Camp focuses on the core aspects of theater, including acting, dancing and voice. Led by experienced theater educators, directors and choreographers, campers will participate in workshops and rehearsals to prepare for a public performance at the end of the session. Who: Ages 6 to 17 When: Three-week program runs from Monday, July 11, through Friday, July 29; two-week program runs from Monday, July 11, through Friday, July 22 Cost: $850 for three-week program, and $575 for two-week program
Featured photo: SummerQuest at World Academy in Nashua. Courtesy photo.
Head to the Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St in Manchester; currier.org) today for Art After Work, when the museum admission is free from 5 to 8 p.m. and the Winter Garden offers drink specials and a full menu for purchase as well as live music — this week’s performer is Paul Nelson. Tours include a 5:30 p.m. tour of the exhibit “As Precious As Gold: Carpets from the Islamic World,” which is on display through Sunday, Feb. 27. The Currier is open Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission costs $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $10 for students and $5 for ages 17 to 13; kids under 13 get in for free.
Thursday, Feb. 24
Head to the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St. In Manchester; palacetheatre.org) for a screening of 1954’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers today at 10 a.m. as part of the Senior Movie Mornings series. Tickets cost $10.
Friday, Feb. 24
The final weekend of the LaBelle Lights, a walk-through light show at LaBelle Winery in Derry, starts tonight. LaBelle Lights is open from 5 to 8 p.m. tonight through Saturday, Feb. 26. See labellewinery.com for tickets (which can also be purchased on site); tickets cost $15 for adults (plus fees, for all paid tickets), $10 for 65+, $8 for ages 4 to 12 and free for kids 3 and under, according to the website.
Friday, Feb. 25
Millyard Brewery (25 E. Otterson St. in Nashua; millyardbrewery.com) hosts an exploration of the pairing of beer and chocolate featuring Loon Chocolate tonight at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $12 and are available online. Sample four beers with four specially paired chocolates.
Head back to Millyard Brewery for the pairing of Saturday night and laughs: Comedian Jimmy Cash will headline a comedy show starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26.
Friday, Feb 25
Catch the Soggy Po Boys tonight at 8 p.m. at the Bank of NH Stage (16 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com). Tickets cost $18 to $21 (plus fees). See the Cap Center website for a video that shows off their New Orleans-inspired sound.
Saturday, Feb. 26
Relax with Klipper (Austin Klipp’s piano and vocals) at Liquid Therapy (14 Court St. in Nashua; liquidtherapynh.com) this afternoon at 2 p.m. Find more live music at area bars, breweries, restaurants and other locales in the Music This Week listing, which starts this week on page 42.
Saturday, Feb. 26
“Hostess with the mostest?” Monique Toosoon will preside over the monthly “Life Is a Drag” show at Chunky’s Cinema pub (707 Huse Road in Manchester; chunkys.com) at 9 p.m. Tickets to this 21+ show cost $25; doors open at 8 p.m.
Wednesday, March 2
Get some free doo-wop at the Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St. in Concord) tonight at 7:30 p.m. when The Rockin’ Daddios perform. See walkerlecture.org or call 333-0035.
Prepare to beam up: March 3
Head to the Capitol Center for the Arts (Chubb Theatre, 44 S. Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com) on Thursday, March 3, at 7 p.m. for a screening of 1982’s Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan followed by a live presentation featuring Capt. James T. Kirk himself, William Shatner. The actor will tell stories about his career and take questions from the audience, the website said. Tickets cost $39.75 to $99.75.
Featured photo. Tent featured in the “As Precious As Gold” exhibit.
Benny, Casey, Tucker — those are the options for the name of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats’ new bat dog in-training, and fans are being asked to vote for their favorite. According to a press release, the golden retriever puppy won’t be working as the bat dog this year, but he will be making appearances at Delta Dental Stadium throughout the season, including his official debut at the May 13 game. The to-be-named puppy is a rescue who came from New Hampshire-based volunteer organization Hero Pups, which provides support dogs to veterans and first responders in New England. “We’re proud to continue the legacy of Ollie the Bat Dog, who provided us so many wonderful memories over the years,” Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw said in the release.
Score: +1
Comment:The winning name of the Fisher Cats’ new bat dog in training will be announced in the coming weeks. Vote at nhfishercats.com.
Help wanted
New Hampshire employers are having a hard time finding people to work for them: According to WalletHub’s 2022 States Where Employers Are Struggling the Most in Hiring report, the Granite State ranks 4th in the nation. The report said that overall the country’s labor force participation rate is experiencing the slowest recovery of any recession since World War II. In New Hampshire the job openings rate during the latest month was 8.50 percent; in the past 12 months it was 7.28 percent. Alaska topped the list, followed by Vermont and Wyoming, the report said.
Score: -2
Comment:This is tough on businesses, and customers too — understaffing is making for longer lines at the grocery store, longer waits at the drive-thru and more frustrating customer service experiences.
Professional education opportunities
Through its micro-credential program, UNH is now offering more than 250 micro-credential courses and 26 certificate programs, the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs announced last week. Classes and programs focus on providing work-ready skills and are available in areas ranging from computer science and cryptocurrency to business management and law, according to a press release. Classes are taught in person and online; they start as low as $50 and are open to anyone, not just UNH students. Several similar programs are available at other schools in the state’s Community College System, including at NHTI, where all micro-credentials lead to an NHTI certificate or a degree program, the release said.
Score: +1
Comment:“Our state’s micro-credential programs give individuals a cost-efficient option to higher education that allows them to obtain and showcase ‘work ready’ skills,” BEA Commissioner Taylor Caswell said in the release. “It’s an interesting turning point in our higher-education system that will shape the future of the state’s workforce as a whole, benefitting thousands of companies.”
QOL score: 60
Net change: 0
QOL this week: 60
What’s affecting your Quality of Life here in New Hampshire? Let us know at news@hippopress.com.
