New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival – Lakes Region
Location: City of Laconia, NH
Date: Activities Begin October 22, 2024, Through Halloween
Festival Information: NHPumpkinFestival.com
About the New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival
Get ready for an electrifying extravaganza! The NH Pumpkin Festival is back and bigger than ever. This community-hosted, family-friendly celebration of fall showcases the unique charm of New Hampshire with activities happening all across the city of Laconia.
Whether you’re into leisurely strolls, scenic drives, or boat rides, the festival offers an immersive autumn experience in NH’s Lakes Region. From pumpkin displays and parades to cornhole tournaments and food trucks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Downtown Happenings
- Pumpkin Displays: Admire the beautiful pumpkin displays around Main Street.
- Runaway Pumpkin 10k & 5k Run/Walk: Get active and participate in this fun run/walk. Register Here
- Great New England Craft & Artisan Show: Explore unique crafts and artisanal goods.
- Special Dinner Train (Friday, 10/25): Enjoy a scenic dinner train ride.
- Pumpkin Express with Granite State Scenic Railway: Take a charming train ride.
- Children’s Costume Parade: Watch adorable costumes in action.
- Donut Eating Contest at Laconia Village Bakery: Indulge in some sweet competition.
- Lakes Region Community College’s Pie Eating Contest: Join or watch the pie-eating fun.
- Make Your Own Monster Plant at Catchpenny: Create a spooky plant and take photos at the Little Shop of Horrors booth.
- Nonprofit Patch: Learn about local nonprofits and support their causes.
- Costume Contest for Pets & People: Show off your best costumes.
- Pumpkin Carving & Decorating: Get creative with pumpkins.
- Food Trucks: Enjoy a variety of delicious eats.
- Pancake Breakfast at The Flip Side: Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
- Costume Party & Oktoberfest at Defiant Records & Craft Beer: Celebrate in costume with great beer.
- NH Vintage Vinyl at PumpCANALly: Discover vintage records; costumes encouraged.
- Wicked Witches of the Lakes Region Show: Enjoy a whimsical performance.
- 10,000 Maniacs at Colonial Theatre (Sunday, 10/27): Catch a live performance by this iconic band.
Weirs Beach Pumpkin Fest Activities
- Pumpkin Displays Along the Boardwalk: Stroll and admire the festive decorations.
- Half Moon Amusement Arcades: Enjoy classic arcade games.
- Kids Zone featuring Vertical Entertainment: Fun activities for kids.
- Masquerade Ball aboard the M/S Mountain Washington (Saturday, 10/26): Dance the night away.
- Ghost Excursions aboard The Spirit: Experience spooky fun.
- Pumpkin Cornhole Tournament (Saturday, 10/26 at Off the Rails Restaurant & Bar): Compete in this popular game.
- Zombies Karaoke: Sing your heart out in costume.
- Pumpkin Mixology Nights (10/25 & 10/26 at 70 North): Try pumpkin-themed cocktails.
- Cookie Decorating & Crafts: Get creative with sweet treats.
- Pet Trick or Treat: Treat your furry friends.
- Pumpkin Boot Camp: Stay fit with a festive twist.
- Music at DOX on Winnipesaukee: Enjoy live music.
- Sweet Treats at Kellerhaus: Indulge in delicious sweets.
- Bier Garden at Craft Beer Xchange (home of the Witches Brew Pub): Relax with a cold brew.
- Wicked Witches of the Lakes Region Show: Another chance to catch this fun performance.
Why It’s Perfect for the 55+ Community
- Variety of Activities: From crafting and parades to food contests and live music, there’s something for everyone.
- Community Engagement: The festival is a great way to connect with locals and make new friends.
- Scenic Locations: Enjoy the beautiful fall scenery of Laconia and the Lakes Region.
- Accessible and Family-Friendly: The festival is designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
Plan Your Visit
- What to Bring: Active seniors should wear comfortable shoes, warm clothes, camera, and a festive spirit.
- Travel Tips: Book accommodations early and check the festival website for updates and registration details for specific events.
- Local Attractions: Explore other nearby attractions like Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains during your visit.
For more information and to register for events, visit the official NH Pumpkin Festival website.
Event Sponsors
Rev Up for Laconia Motorcycle Week 2024
Get ready to rev your engines and hit the open road because Laconia Motorcycle Week is back from June 8-16, 2024! After the thunderous success of last year’s 100th-anniversary celebration, the 101st edition promises to be an exhilarating continuation of this time-honored tradition. Join riders from across the nation as they converge in Laconia, NH, for a week-long celebration of the thrilling world of life on two wheels.
About the Event:
Since its inaugural rally in 1923, Laconia Motorcycle Week has become an annual pilgrimage for riders, offering a diverse range of events catering to all aspects of the riding lifestyle. From heart-pounding concerts and demo rides to a bustling marketplace featuring an expansive mix of motorcycle paraphernalia, delicious food, and beverages, this event has something for everyone. Don’t miss the breathtaking Ride to the Sky, an epic journey that takes riders to the summit of Mount Washington for an unrivaled view.
Event Highlights:
- Daily Scenic Rides: Embark on daily scenic rides departing from Rally Headquarters on Lakeside Avenue in Weirs Beach.
- Racing Action: Experience the thrill of races at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, including the Vintage Races & American Flat Track Races on the first weekend and the Loudon Classic Super Bike Races on the second weekend.
- Cruise on the Lake: Hop aboard the M/S Mount Washington for a cruise around Lake Winnipesaukee, offering a unique perspective on the scenic beauty of the region.
Additional Information:
For a comprehensive schedule of events, visit the Official Rally Website or download the free Laconia Rally News for detailed information on various events.
History buffs can delve into the storied past of Laconia Motorcycle Week by visiting the History of the Rally page.