October Events in New Hampshire:
Hiking, Golf Tournaments, Concerts, Festivities and more
For more NH Events and things to do, check out: October New Hampshire Events
October in New Hampshire is a time of transition and celebration, as the Granite State transforms with the vibrant hues of fall and offers an array of exciting events. From cultural festivals and traditional fairs to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an active adult looking for thrilling activities or part of the 55+ community seeking fun and relaxation, New Hampshire’s October events cater to a broad audience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top fairs, festivals, and activities happening across the state this October 2024. Get ready to mark your calendar with events that promise entertainment, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Plainfield Pumpkin People, Plainfield, September 28 – October 31
Plainfield invites you to celebrate fall by creating your own “Pumpkin People.” For over a decade, the town has transformed pumpkins into quirky characters, delighting residents and visitors. Drive through Plainfield and see how creative the community gets each year. Make it a fun, scenic autumn day trip with family or friends.
Pro Tip: Be sure to visit the town center to see some of the most elaborate displays.
Website: greateruppervalley.com
40th Annual Return of the Pumpkin People, Jackson, October 1 – 31
Jackson, NH, comes alive every October with the return of the Pumpkin People. Now in its 40th year, this beloved tradition turns the town into a whimsical display of pumpkin-headed figures. Pick up a free map at local shops and take a self-guided tour to spot the Pumpkin People scattered across town.
Local Tip: This is a great way to enjoy the White Mountains’ fall foliage while participating in a quirky, family-friendly event.
Website: jacksonnh.com
8th Annual Mt. Sunapee Duck Drop, Newbury, October 5
Mark your calendars for the 8th Annual Mt. Sunapee Duck Drop. Held at Mount Sunapee Resort, this charity event is fun for all ages. Watch as hundreds of rubber ducks are dropped from a ski lift, racing to the bottom for prizes. Proceeds support local charities. Make it a full day by exploring nearby Lake Sunapee or hiking the scenic trails.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot for viewing.
Website: nhduckdrop.com
Powder Keg Beer & Chili Festival, Exeter, October 5
Celebrate fall with a perfect trio — beer, chili, and cool weather. Exeter’s Powder Keg Beer & Chili Festival brings together over 50 breweries and cideries, plus over a dozen chili competitors. Enjoy unlimited tastings and vote for your favorite chili in this popular people’s choice contest. It’s a must-visit for chili lovers and craft beer enthusiasts.
Local Tip: Arrive early to grab a parking spot and start tasting before the crowds!
Website: powderkegbeerfest.com.
40th Annual Apple Harvest Day, Dover, October 5
Dover’s Apple Harvest Day is a fall favorite, attracting over 60,000 visitors. This festival showcases a massive craft fair with 300 vendors, live entertainment, and, of course, apple-themed delights. Don’t miss the apple pie contest or the 5K race. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or a relaxing day of shopping, Apple Harvest Day has something for everyone.
Insider Tip: Try the local apple cider doughnuts—they’re a festival favorite!
Website: dovernh.org.
Graveyard History Walking Tour, Moultonborough, October 7 – 28
Get into the Halloween spirit with a historic Graveyard Tour at Castle in the Clouds. Explore long-forgotten cemeteries, cellar holes, and learn about the families that once lived on this iconic estate. The tour gives a unique glimpse into the area’s funerary traditions while enjoying the crisp fall air.
Local Insight: Wear sturdy shoes for this outdoor adventure.
Website: castleintheclouds.org.
Fairy and Hobbit House Festival, Lee, October 8 – 10
Close out the season at Bedrock Gardens with the whimsical Fairy and Hobbit House Festival. Wander along trails lined with designer fairy houses, build your own creation at the Gnome Depot, and enjoy a magical day of family fun. This is the last opportunity to visit the gardens before winter.
Tip: Pack a picnic or purchase lunch on-site to enjoy among the enchanted gardens.
Website: bedrockgardens.org.
77th Annual Warner Fall Foliage Festival, Warner, October 11-13
Celebrate the beauty of autumn at the 77th Annual Warner Fall Foliage Festival. This long-standing New England tradition is a celebration of rural life and vibrant fall colors. Over three days, you can enjoy free events like live open-air concerts, a 5K road race, a kids’ fun run, a dance party, and performances by street entertainers. Families will also love the amusement rides, local food vendors, and the chance to wander through craft booths and artisan displays. It’s the perfect event to immerse yourself in the fall spirit, surrounded by the beauty of New Hampshire’s foliage.
Website: wfff.org
Tip: Arrive early to find parking and bring a blanket to relax and enjoy the live music between activities.
Lakes Region Parade of Homes Tour, Various Locations, October 12-13
The Lakes Region Parade of Homes Tour is a must-attend event for anyone interested in home design and architecture. This self-guided tour allows visitors to explore some of the most beautifully designed and newly renovated homes in the Lakes Region. Each home showcases the latest trends, products, and techniques in home building and interior design. Meet the builders and designers behind these spectacular homes, and gather inspiration for your own renovation projects. Whether you’re looking to build, renovate, or simply admire the craftsmanship, this tour is an ideal way to spend a fall weekend.
Website: lakesregionparadeofhomes.com
Tip: Plan your route ahead of time to maximize the number of homes you can visit, and take note of any home tours that offer design consultations or product demonstrations.
Haunted Overload, Lee, October 11 – November 2
Prepare to be terrified at Haunted Overload, one of New Hampshire’s premier Halloween attractions. This award-winning haunted walk offers a spine-chilling experience like no other. Featuring massive, hand-built props, towering monsters (some as tall as 42 feet), and hundreds of glowing jack-o’-lanterns, this haunt takes creativity to the next level. Whether you visit for the full scare experience at night or prefer the daytime walk-through without actors, Haunted Overload delivers unforgettable thrills. With its eerie atmosphere, intricate set designs, and a real headless horseman, it’s no wonder this attraction won ABC’s “The Great Halloween Fright Fight” in 2014.
Website: hauntedoverload.com
Tip: For a less intense experience, opt for the daytime walk-through. If you love the thrill of scares, the nighttime experience is a must—but be sure to buy your tickets early as it often sells out!
Milford Pumpkin Festival, Milford, October 11-13
The Milford Pumpkin Festival is a beloved fall tradition celebrating its 35th year. As one of the largest pumpkin festivals in New Hampshire, it offers something for everyone. Highlights of the festival include the famous giant pumpkin weigh-in contest, where local farmers compete to grow the biggest gourd. Enjoy live music, performances, carnival rides, and plenty of pumpkin-themed activities. Whether you’re carving pumpkins or indulging in delicious fall treats, this festival is the perfect way to get into the autumn spirit.
Website: milfordpumpkinfestival.org
Tip: Bring the whole family and check out the food trucks for seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice everything. Don’t miss the fireworks display on Saturday night!
New Hampshire Brewfest, Portsmouth, October 12
Beer lovers, rejoice! The New Hampshire Brewfest is back at Cisco Brewers in Portsmouth, and it promises a day filled with great brews and good times. Sample beers from over 50 local and regional breweries, all while enjoying live music and entertainment. The festival includes a 5-ounce souvenir sampler cup for you to use while tasting different beers. Best of all, this event is also a fundraiser for the Prescott Park Arts Festival, making it the perfect way to give back while having fun. With plenty of beer, great food, and a lively crowd, this is one beer fest you don’t want to miss.
Website: prescottpark.org
Tip: Be sure to grab your tickets early, as this event tends to sell out quickly. Designate a driver or plan for a ride share to enjoy the festivities safely.
White Mountain Oktoberfest, Lincoln, October 12-14
Get ready for a weekend full of Bavarian fun at the White Mountain Oktoberfest, hosted at Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln. This German-inspired celebration is packed with unique activities like axe throwing, a pretzel maze, and exciting competitions such as the stein-carry and keg-roll relay. Traditional German fare, including brats and pretzels, pairs perfectly with a wide selection of craft beers. Join the lively crowd and reconnect with friends or make new ones during this festive weekend. With the White Mountains as your backdrop, this is a must-attend event for any Oktoberfest enthusiast.
Website: loonmtn.com
Tip: Plan to arrive early for parking, and make sure to dress warmly for the cool mountain air. Don’t forget to take a scenic gondola ride for spectacular fall foliage views.
Sandwich Fair, Sandwich, October 12-14
The Sandwich Fair is a quintessential New England tradition that dates back over 100 years. This fall fair offers something for everyone, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Visitors can explore a wide range of activities, including a bustling farmers market, craft vendors, and food concessions. The midway is packed with rides and games, while the exhibit halls showcase everything from local produce to arts and crafts. Don’t miss the antique car show, live music performances, and animal demonstrations. A highlight of the event is the woodsmen’s field day, where skilled participants compete in traditional lumberjack activities.
Website: thesandwichfair.com
Tip: Make sure to check out the 4-H exhibits and competitions to support local youth and their agricultural projects.
Goffstown Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and Regatta, Goffstown, October 19-20
Prepare for one of New Hampshire’s most unique and exciting fall traditions at the Goffstown Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and Regatta. The main event is the regatta, where competitors race giant hollowed-out pumpkins down the Piscataquog River through downtown Goffstown. In addition to the thrilling race, the weekend is filled with fun events like the pumpkin drop, craft fairs, and live music. The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off is a fierce competition, with some pumpkins weighing in at over 1,000 pounds! Whether you’re cheering on the regatta participants or browsing local artisan booths, this event is sure to delight.
Website: goffstownmainstreet.org
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the river, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the wild pumpkin races!
Howl-O-Ween 5K, Manchester, October 19
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The Howl-O-Ween 5K is not your average road race—it’s a dog-friendly event where pets and their owners can run, walk, and strut their stuff in Halloween costumes! Held at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, this family-friendly race raises funds for the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, benefiting animals in need. Whether you’re running with your furry friend or cheering from the sidelines, the fun doesn’t stop with the race. After crossing the finish line, enjoy refreshments and a Halloween costume contest. It’s a spooktacular way to get active and support a good cause.
Website: rescueleague.org
Tip: Don’t forget to bring a leash and water for your dog. Costumes are encouraged, but make sure they’re safe and comfortable for your pet!
An Evening with Judge Reinhold and Special 40th Anniversary Screening of ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ – Portsmouth, October 20
Location: The Historic Theater
28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Event Overview
Join us for a special evening celebrating the 40th anniversary of the iconic film Beverly Hills Cop with a screening and live appearance by Judge Reinhold. This event, perfect for seniors, active adults, retirees, and families, will be held at the Historic Theater in Portsmouth, NH. Enjoy an evening filled with nostalgia and excitement as Judge Reinhold shares stories from his illustrious career in film and television.
About Judge Reinhold
Judge Reinhold is a versatile actor with over seventy-five motion picture and television roles. He has established a 35-year relationship with audiences worldwide.
His notable films include:
- Stripes
- Fast Times at Ridgemont High
- Ruthless People
- The Santa Clause (1, 2, and 3)
- Beverly Hills Cop (1, 2, and 3)
NH Pumpkin Festival, Laconia, October 22-31
The NH Pumpkin Festival is one of the most iconic fall events in the state, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. Held in downtown Laconia, the festival features a massive display of carved pumpkins that light up the night. In addition to the spectacular pumpkin tower, the event includes live entertainment, food vendors, craft booths, and even a cornhole tournament. For the adventurous, there are plenty of family-friendly activities, including carnival rides and games. This year, new surprises are in store, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Website: nhpumpkinfestival.com
Tip: Consider booking accommodations in advance, as the festival draws large crowds. Be sure to stay for the evening pumpkin lighting for a magical sight!
Taste of New Hampshire, Concord, October 22
Formerly known as the “Taste of Concord,” this mouth-watering event returns under its new name, but with the same delicious offerings. The Taste of New Hampshire brings together some of the best local restaurants, specialty shops, and culinary talents in the area, allowing attendees to graze their way through a variety of generous entrees, appetizers, and desserts. Not only is it a food lover’s dream, but it also supports a great cause — all proceeds go to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central New Hampshire. So, come with an appetite and enjoy the amazing flavors while contributing to a worthy organization!
Website: tasteofnewhampshire.com
Tip: Be sure to come early, as this popular event tends to draw big crowds, and you’ll want plenty of time to sample all the tasty offerings!
The Return of ACOUSTIC DEAD, Pembroke City Limits, October 25
Date: October 25, 2024
Location: Pembroke City Limits
Address: 134 Main St, Suncook, NH 03275
Get ready for an unforgettable night as ACOUSTIC DEAD makes their much-anticipated return to Pembroke City Limits!
Known for their soulful renditions and unique acoustic takes on classic Grateful Dead tunes, this is an event that promises to blend music, community, and great vibes.
What to Expect:
Live Music: Experience the magic of ACOUSTIC DEAD, bringing you closer to the music with their intimate acoustic set. Perfect for Deadheads and new listeners alike!
Community and Culture: Pembroke City Limits isn’t just a venue; it’s a hub for artists, poets, musicians, and food lovers. Dive into a community where creativity flourishes.
Refreshments: Enjoy a wide selection of beer and wine with prices ranging from $3.00 to $7.50. From local drafts like 603 Brewing’s Summatime to international favorites like Guinness, there’s something for every palate. Don’t miss out on the non-alcoholic options from Athletic Brewing for those who prefer a sober sip.
The Sleazy Vegan Eats: Indulge in some mouth-watering vegan dishes. From the SVFT Burger to the comforting Street Corn Dip, every item on the menu is crafted to delight. Specials include a Double Chocolate Shake and a Lemon Cream Frosty for those with a sweet tooth.
Event Highlights:
Drafts & Bottles: A selection curated for every taste, whether you’re in for a light lager or a rich ale.
Vegan Delights: The Sleazy Vegan provides delicious eats that prove plant-based can be both indulgent and satisfying.
Live Atmosphere: Enjoy the historic charm of Suncook Village combined with the vibrant energy of live performances.
Join Us:
Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come down to Pembroke City Limits for an evening where music, food, and community converge. Whether you’re there for the tunes, the brews, or the vegan treats, this event is set to be a highlight of your October.
Note: Please check back for the exact start time or follow Pembroke City Limits on social media for the latest updates and event details.
Let’s celebrate the spirit of community and music together. See you there for the return of ACOUSTIC DEAD!
Spooktacular Halloween Party, Merrimack, October 26
For a Halloween event that’s fun for the whole family, head to Wasserman Park in Merrimack for the annual Spooktacular Halloween Party! This free event is packed with activities to keep the kids entertained all evening long. From carnival games and crafts to face painting and pumpkin carving demonstrations, there’s no shortage of spooky fun. A local magician will perform, adding to the magical atmosphere, and don’t miss out on the costume contest for kids. With food, music, and plenty of Halloween-themed activities, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Website: merrimackparksandrec.org
Tip: Make sure to wear a costume, as the contest offers prizes in various categories, and bring a bag for collecting treats at the event!
Portsmouth Halloween Parade, Portsmouth, October 31
The Portsmouth Halloween Parade is turning 30 this year, and it’s bound to be one of the best yet! Known for its incredible creativity and sense of community, this legendary parade draws costume lovers from all over New England. Whether you want to dress up as your favorite character, get spooky with ghoulish makeup, or just show up to watch the incredible displays, everyone is invited to join in the fun. The parade begins at Peirce Island and winds through the streets of downtown Portsmouth. With vibrant costumes, festive floats, and lots of Halloween spirit, this event is the ultimate celebration of the season.
Website: portsmouthnhhalloweenparade.org
Tip: If you’re participating, arrive early to find parking, and make sure to walk with friends — the more creative your group costumes, the better!
