On Sunday, I drove to Newbury for the League of NH Craftsmen’s annual fair. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
I spent several hours wandering through the labyrinth of booths, gazing with awe at landscape photography printed on wood, carved animal statues that stood nearly my height, intricately blown glass in a rainbow of hues and so much more.
The best part (beyond seeing such impressive creations, of course!) was talking to the artists. It’s incredible to witness the various niche talents people have and how they use those skills to shape materials to their creative visions. Equally as striking is the acute humility held by the people I met. They’re matter-of-fact about the beauty they create, whereas I could only dream of crafting something one smidgeon as gorgeous as anything these artisans make.
The good news is that the fair is open through this Sunday, running daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There’s an abundance of stalls to check out, as well as food, live music and more. Head on over to Mount Sunapee Resort as soon as you get the chance. I promise you won’t regret the trip!
And that’s not the only celebration in the area this weekend! Sunfox Farm is back in full bloom for its annual Sunflower Bloom Festival, running from Saturday all the way through Aug. 16. I’ve gone two years in a row and was struck both times by the sea of yellow that greets you as soon as you get out of the park. There’s something incredibly peaceful about being immersed in so many flowers. Plus, the food trucks and vendors make it extra fun, and you can even pick some blooms to take home with you!
For more outdoor time, head to downtown Concord on Friday between 4-8 p.m. for InTown Concord’s Dog Days of Summer First Friday event. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring your pet to Main Street and maybe even make some fellow dog-lover friends. Red River Theatres is screening “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” for free outside in Eagle Square. There will also be face painting, free ice cream and lemonade, live music and food. Plus, many stores stay open later on First Fridays, so the evening shopping vibes are impeccable.
If you’re looking for ways to give back during your weekend, join the Cleanup Critters Community Litter Cleanup from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday. The group will be working to clean up Regional Drive in Concord. No registration is necessary, so just show up! You can park at the meeting spot: Concord Christian Academy. The group provides litter grabbers, trash bags, safety vests and more, so wear clothes that you’re comfortable in and shoes that feel sturdy. It’ll be warm, so water bottles are also recommended. If you have work gloves, feel free to bring those, too. It’s a great way to get involved for a morning and help keep our city tidy!
And last but certainly not least, the Concord Arts Market is hosting another round of Arts in the Park on Saturday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Head to Rollins Park to meet over six dozen artisans and creatives with a broad array of goods, including “fine art paintings, eclectic prints, unique pottery, fiber arts, jewelry for all tastes, stained glass, woodwork, pyrography, handmade soaps, candles and more,” according to the description. There will also be live music and food, so expect a good time all around.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
