Christmas Parades, Tree Lightings, and Holiday Walks in New Hampshire 2024
Family-Friendly Holiday Celebrations Across New Hampshire
For more NH Events and things to do, check out: Winter New Hampshire Events
Discover festive events and traditions across New Hampshire this holiday season. From Christmas parades to tree lightings and holiday strolls, there’s something magical for everyone. Plan your visit to enjoy these family-friendly celebrations.
The list below is organized alphabetically by town or city for easy navigation.
Concord, NH Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
The Concord Christmas Parade kicks off on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.. The parade route begins at Hazen Drive, continues up Loudon Road, and ends at Canterbury Road near Pembroke Road.
Tree Lighting Event
Mark your calendars for Friday, November 29, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Statehouse City Plaza. The evening includes:
- Santa’s arrival
- Fireworks
- Live music
- Charity and food vendors
- Toasting marshmallows at burn barrels
📍 Local tip: Arrive early to secure parking at the Capital Commons or Storrs Street garages.
Conway Village Tree Lighting
Experience the holiday charm of Conway at the Village Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 29, 2024, at 4 p.m.
📍 Local tip: Take a stroll along Main Street to enjoy local shops decorated for the season.
Derry, NH Nutfield Holiday Parade
Celebrate in Derry during the Nutfield Holiday Parade on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 1 p.m.. This cherished event brings holiday cheer to the community.
📍 Local tip: Visit local restaurants on Broadway Street for post-parade dining.
Dover, NH Holiday Events
Holiday Parade
The Dover Holiday Parade takes place on Sunday, December 1, 2024, with the theme, “Tales from the Nutcracker.” This magical parade showcases characters and floats inspired by the classic holiday story.
Holiday Stroll
The Dover Holiday Stroll will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 4 to 8 p.m. Enjoy festive shopping, dining specials, and local entertainment.
📍 Local tip: Park near Henry Law Park for easy access to both events.
Durham, NH Frost Fest
Ring in the holiday season at Frost Fest on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m., held on Main Street. Enjoy activities like:
- S’mores roasting
- Cookie decorating
- Ice sculpting
- A bonfire
- A visit from Santa
📍 Local tip: Grab a hot cocoa from The Juicery Café before heading to the event.
Goffstown, NH Tree Lighting
Celebrate the season at Friday Night Under the Lights on Friday, December 6, 2024, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Goffstown Village. This annual event features festive lights, music, and holiday cheer in the heart of Goffstown.
📍 Local tip: Don’t miss the nearby artisan shops for unique holiday gifts.
Hampstead, NH Christmas Parade
Hampstead’s Annual Christmas Parade is set for Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 1 p.m.. This year’s theme, “A Storybook Christmas,” will showcase floats and characters inspired by favorite holiday tales.
📍 Local tip: Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot along Route 121.
Hampton, NH Christmas Parade
The Experience Hampton Christmas Parade takes over downtown Hampton on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 1 p.m.. With the theme, “Vision of Sugarplums,” this festive parade is a treat for all ages.
📍 Local tip: Visit nearby Tuck Museum of Hampton History to explore local holiday traditions before the parade.
Lebanon, NH Holiday and Winter Celebration
‘Tis the season in Lebanon with the Downtown Winter Celebration on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Colburn Park. The event begins at 12 p.m. with a holiday carnival, Santa’s Tour of Lebanon and West Lebanon, a craft fair, and a holiday bazaar.
📍 Local tip: Enjoy local eats at Three Tomatoes Trattoria or Salt hill Pub after the festivities.
Littleton, NH Holiday Parade
Don’t miss the 37th Annual Christmas Parade in Littleton on Friday, November 29, 2024, at 12 p.m.. The parade kicks off the holiday season with floats, music, and Santa Claus.
📍 Local tip: Stop by Chutters for a sweet treat from their famous candy counter.
Manchester, NH Christmas Parade
Manchester’s Christmas Parade begins on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 4 p.m. along Elm Street, immediately following the Santa Claus Shuffle (3K race and walk at 3 p.m.). This downtown tradition is a festive highlight of the season.
📍 Local tip: Join in the Santa Claus Shuffle for a unique pre-parade experience!
Merrimack, NH Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
The 31st Annual Holiday Parade in Merrimack starts on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 3 p.m.. Following the parade, the Tree Lighting ceremony will be held at 3:45 p.m. in Abbie Griffin Park.
📍 Local tip: Bring a blanket to enjoy the tree lighting comfortably while sipping on hot cocoa.
Nashua, NH Holiday Stroll
The 29th Annual Holiday Stroll lights up Nashua on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 4 to 9 p.m.. Starting at Main Street from City Hall, this event features entertainment, dining, and a magical atmosphere for all.
📍 Local tip: Make time to visit the local galleries and pop-up shops along Main Street.
New Boston, NH Tree Lighting
Gather with neighbors for the Tree Lighting on the Gazebo and S’mores with Santa event on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the New Boston Town Common. This family-friendly event includes live music, hot cocoa, and a chance to meet Santa. In case of bad weather, the event will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024.
📍 Local tip: Bring a chair or blanket for comfortable seating near the gazebo.
North Conway, NH Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting
Celebrate the season at the Holiday Festival in North Conway on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities include:
- A Christmas tree lighting
- A peppermint guessing contest
- Live caroling
- A dazzling holiday light show and tunnel
📍 Local tip: Check out Settlers Green for holiday deals during your visit.
Nottingham, NH Christmas Parade and Craft Workshop
The Nottingham Holiday Parade and Party begins on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 10 a.m. After the parade, head to the Town Hall Gym for a holiday craft workshop where families can create handmade gifts. A small fee is charged for each craft, with proceeds benefiting the community.
📍 Local tip: Bring cash and arrive early to find parking near the Town Hall.
Portsmouth, NH Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Portsmouth’s holiday festivities begin with the Middle and High School Holiday Ensemble performing at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 7, 2024, followed by the tree lighting in Market Square at 5:30 p.m. The Illuminated Holiday Parade starts at 6 p.m. from Goodwin Park and winds through downtown.
📍 Local tip: Explore the unique holiday shopping in Market Square before the evening events.
Rochester, NH Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
The Rochester Holiday Parade takes place on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.. Watch the procession travel through downtown, ending near the Rochester Commons. The tree lighting is scheduled for Friday, December 6, 2024, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
📍 Local tip: Arrive early on parade day to grab coffee or treats from local spots like the Revolution Taproom & Grill.
Rye, NH Christmas Parade and Candlelight Walk
Rye’s Christmas Parade begins on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 1 p.m. The parade route runs from Webster at Rye to Rye Junior High. The Candlelight Walk follows shortly after. Don’t miss the tree lighting at Parsons Field on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 3 to 5 p.m.
📍 Local tip: Visit Jenness Beach for a winter walk before or after the events.
Salem, NH Christmas Parade
The 53rd Annual Holiday Parade in Salem is scheduled for Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 1 p.m. This year’s theme, “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” promises creative floats and costumes inspired by the Tim Burton classic.
📍 Local tip: Stop by Tuscan Village for shopping or dining after the parade.
Stratham, NH Tree Lighting
Stratham’s Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Stratham Fire Station. Enjoy a cozy evening filled with holiday lights, refreshments, and community spirit.
📍 Local tip: Bring the kids to meet local firefighters and see the decorated fire trucks.
Wolfeboro, NH Christmas Parade
The Christmas in Wolfeboro Parade is on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 3 to 4 p.m., along Main Street. This event brings holiday cheer to the “Oldest Summer Resort in America,” featuring festive floats and community performers.
📍 Local tip: Visit the Wolfeboro Inn for a holiday-themed cocktail or dinner after the parade.
Celebrate New Hampshire’s Holiday Spirit!
From tree lightings to parades and craft workshops, these events capture the joy of the season. Plan your holiday itinerary and enjoy the charm of New Hampshire this December!
