There’s been a noticeable change in the air this week as we officially hit the fall equinox. The leaves are headed full-force towards peak colors. On my drive to work each morning, I travel through the fog that rolls across the Merrimack River through East Concord. It’s spectacular.
And just as the shift in seasons snuck up upon us, so too did September’s packed weekend schedules. I find myself busier than I’ve been in months, but in a wonderful way, resulting from many exciting events happening all over the place.
This weekend holds a lot in store for Swifties, movie buffs, foodies and more. So if you’re in town, make the most of an action-packed time. As I write this column each week, I can’t escape the feeling that I’m creating a “choose your own adventure” for our readers. Whatever you pick from among my recommendations, I hope you fill your time in ways that make being busy feel enjoyable or provide you respite in the middle of it all.
Thursday, September 25
For those interested in engaging with current events, head to the Pembroke Town Library on Thursday evening for a 7 p.m. talk by Dr. Joshua Duclos, chair of the Humanities at St. Paul’s School in Concord. He will tell audiences about his recent experiences in Ukraine and provide historical context for the current war. The library is located at 313 Pembroke Street in Pembroke and is free to the public. All are welcome to attend.
Friday, September 26
Are you ready for it?! (Reference fully intended!) The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is hosting a Taylor Swift Experience on Friday evening, fusing vibrant visuals with the decorated artist’s beloved soundtracks. The event takes over the planetarium for an immersive Swiftie experience. There’s a 5:30 p.m. show for all ages and a Taylor’s Version show at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available on the Discovery Center’s website, starhop.com.
Saturday, September 27
For the movie lovers out there, Red River Theaters in Concord is hosting a 10 a.m. screening of “All The President’s Men” in honor of the late Robert Redford. Start your day at the cinema, with tickets available online at redrivertheatres.org
In case you missed the Hopkinton State Fair or have simply been craving another fairgrounds experience, check out the Deerfield Fair, happening Thursday through Sunday this weekend. Chock full of fun, the fair features amusement park rides, agricultural expositions, local food and craft vendors, live entertainment and more. The weekend-long celebration will take place from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and until 7 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Regardless of when you go to the fair, make sure to leave room in your stomach for the Taste of Greece Festival, happening Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rain or shine, the festival combines all the culinary delights of Greece with music, dancing, merchandise, raffles and more. Stop by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Concord for the festival. You can even take a church tour, if you feel so inclined!
Sunday, September 28
Spend your Sunday at the Wings & Wheels event happening at the Concord Municipal Airport. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be a wide array of vehicles on display, as well as food trucks and different science and state agencies. The free gathering promises enjoyment for all, so bring the family and have a blast. More information can be found at https://www.concordnh.gov/1713/Wings-Wheels-Event.
End your weekend on a relaxing note with Good Neighbor Day in Rollins Park in Concord. From 1-2 p.m., Concord residents will gather in the South End to socialize in the park’s pollinator gardens and share snacks with one another. It’s a great chance to meet those who live around you and build your sense of community even further!
Enjoy the next few days. More fun to come next week!