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Mother’s Day weekend is shaping up to be a busy one across New Hampshire. Think spring festivals, live music, paddling trips, local markets, circus performances, and plenty of family-friendly events. Here are 13 things to do.
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1. 📖 America’s Birthday Story Walk
Etna, through June 21
A patriotic story walk through trails behind the Etna Library, open daily and self-guided.
More info
2. 📚 Peterborough Town Library Friends Host Grand Reopening, Kyes-Sage Bookshop
Peterborough, May 7–9
Grand reopening of the used book shop supporting library programs for children, teens, and adults.
More info
3. 🎪 Circus Springboard: Broken Open
Brattleboro, VT, May 8
A circus-theater performance exploring trust, loss, and rebuilding through acrobatics and storytelling.
More info
4. 🇺🇸 Wilton Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary
Wilton, May 9
Revolutionary War reenactments, memorial dedication, music, food, and community celebration.
More info
5. 🐑 New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival
Deerfield, May 9–10
Annual fiber festival with vendors, sheep shows, demos, and workshops.
More info
6. 🎨 GSCS Spring 2026 Shop ‘Til You Drop Craft Fair
Rochester, May 9
A community craft fair featuring 50+ vendors, raffles, food, and family activities.
More info
7. 🌲 New Hampshire Day at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Holderness, May 9
Discounted admission for NH residents with animal encounters and educational programs.
More info
8. 🌸 Springfest: A Celebration of Gardens and Baby Animals
Portsmouth, May 9–10
Baby animals, historic farm demos, gardens, workshops, and special 250th anniversary events.
More info
9. 🧒 Children’s Business Fair
Henniker, May 9
Young entrepreneurs run their own businesses in a one-day marketplace. Free family event.
More info
10. 🎨 17th Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Craft Festival
Hampton Falls, May 9–10
Juried artisan fair featuring handmade goods, food, and gifts. Free admission, pet-friendly.
More info
11. 🚣 Mother’s Day Picnic and Paddle
Fitzwilliam, May 10
Guided kayak trip followed by picnic and live music along scenic Monadnock views.
More info
12. 🎷 Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch — Al Cron Quartet
Portsmouth, May 10
Live jazz brunch featuring swing, standards, and modern jazz performances.
More info
13. ☕ Springtime Family Tea
Franconia, May 10
Tea, storytelling, dance, music, and community activities for all ages.
More info
