I’ve loved window-shopping my entire life. There’s nothing more fun than strolling past store windows and picturing myself wearing the luxurious outfit on the mannequin or imagining how the framed painting in the display would look on my wall.
Concord has no shortage of charming storefronts. You can find clothing, jewelry, furniture, records, antiques and so much more, all within a few blocks. If you’re anything like me, you sometimes get distracted staring into all these marvelous windows, especially once the holiday season rolls around.
What most consistently draws my gaze is art. Maybe you’ve been into the numerous galleries scattered throughout downtown. Or maybe you haven’t but have been meaning to. Perhaps you didn’t know they were there and now that you’re reading this, you certainly want to learn more. Any way you spin it, Concord has a vibrant artistic presence downtown.
Well, you’re in luck! On Friday, galleries and art-related stores on and around Main Street will keep their doors open extra late for InTown Concord’s final First Friday of 2025. The theme? Art Walk!
From the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen and Go Native Gallery to Pompanoosuc Mills, Glimpse Gallery and more, the art walk has a total of 23 destinations. Grab your family and friends and head over to downtown between 4-8 p.m. There will also be live music, food trucks and a free trolley to shuttle you around if you don’t feel like walking or are seeking a more relaxing way to enjoy the evening. So bundle up and prepare for a wonderful time!
Speaking of art, Concord artist Saad Hindal will be holding his gallery opening that same day from 12-8 p.m. at 57 North Main Street, Suite 105 in Concord. His work will be on display until Christmas Eve. Plus, Hindal’s work is a stop on the Art Walk, so stop by and check off two weekend wishlist items at the same time.
On Saturday, head over to Penacook for the Christmas Fair at the United Church of Penacook. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to browse craft vendors and purchase sweets. Proceeds from the fair will go to the United Church Food Pantry and the Concord Coalition to End Homelessness.
In the afternoon beginning at 1 p.m., Concoocook Cider Company in Hopkinton will host musician Alex Cohen, who will be playing an acoustic set for those dipping their drinks at the cidery.
While savoring your Sunday, check out “Pressure Drop” at the Bank of New Hampshire Stage. According to the description, “This film follows the world’s best skiers and snowboarders, alongside the next generation, through Alaskan spines, stacked pillow lines, massive cliffs, giant couloirs, deep powder and insane jumps. From Norway to British Columbia, California to Alaska and home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, each line becomes a brushstroke in the art of descent.” Sounds like a fascinating watch to me! There’s a showing at 3 p.m. and one at 7 p.m., with tickets on sale now at ccanh.org.
Have a lovely weekend!
