There’s been a lot of debate about books in schools lately, and “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” has become part of that conversation.

The novel was recently removed from Merrimack Valley High School’s required reading list after a parent raised concerns about her teenage son reading scenes that deal with things like sexual assault and drug and alcohol use.

Read the full story: NH parents, educators debate YA book’s place in school curriculum

Here’s what’s inside today’s newsletter:

🌲 5 of the best holiday day trips you can take without leaving NH

📅 Can’t-miss events for your calendar

This newsletter is free as a winter snowstorm (but way easier to handle). Subscribe and share today.

Sleigh ride. (Andrea Stark/ Unsplash)

By USA Today via Reuters Connect

Festive train ride (Conway Scenic Railroad)
Hop aboard Santa’s Holiday Express for a cozy, hour-long train ride through snowy Conway, complete with holiday characters and a visit from Santa.

Holiday shopping at Tuscan Village
Browse the Holiday Shoppes at Tuscan Village, an outdoor market packed with local artisans, handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and lots of twinkling lights.

Sleigh rides across New Hampshire
Bundle up for a classic horse-drawn sleigh ride at spots like Charmingfare Farm, Franconia Notch Stables, or Nestlenook Farm, where some rides even include chocolate stops.

Santa’s Village in Jefferson
Visit this Christmas-themed amusement park for holiday rides, festive shows, visits with Santa, and a nighttime Christmas light display.

Skiing in the White Mountains
Hit the slopes in one of New Hampshire’s most iconic winter destinations, offering skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and full-on Hallmark movie vibes.

The year is coming to an end, and in 2026, several new laws will take effect—including an expansion of New Hampshire’s school voucher program and the end of annual car inspections (maybe).

What should New Hampshire legislators focus on in 2026?

Here’s what you’re saying…

“NH legislators should focus on 1) increasing the minimum wage 2) addressing the housing crisis 3) getting rid of education freedom accounts 4) universal healthcare.” — Meg Trainor, Nashua

🎄 Yule Festival & Artisans Fair
Nashua — Sat., Dec. 20
Holiday artisans market and Yule-themed activities at the Nashua Sheraton. Fundraiser benefiting children with special needs supported by the Bartlett School & Assessment Center. Admission is a small gift or $2–$20 donation placed under the Giving Tree.
More info

🎷 Keene Jazz Orchestra Holiday Swing Dance
Keene — Sat., Dec. 20
Holiday swing dance featuring the 18-piece Keene Jazz Orchestra with vocalist Bella Holtz, performing music by Count Basie, Glenn Miller, and Benny Goodman. Held in the renovated ballroom at the Best Western Plus in Keene. Bar and limited food service available. Tickets: $15 adults, $12 students.
More info

🎨 Lebanon Art & Crafts Association 53rd Annual Christmas Show & Sale
West Lebanon — Nov. 10–Dec. 24
Shop handmade gifts from local artisans at the Upper Valley Plaza (between The Paper Store and Famous Footwear). Open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m., with late hours Thursday and Friday until 8 p.m.
More info

🎅 Christmas in Wolfeboro
Wolfeboro — Nov. 29–Dec. 24
Kick off the season with a toy drive, festive parade, community tree lighting, and a Christmas carol sing-along at First Congregational Church. Santa’s Hut is open through Christmas Eve.
More info

✨ Holidays at the Estate
Concord — Nov. 29–Dec. 19
Kimball Jenkins hosts its first-ever seasonal celebration with illuminated grounds, gingerbread displays, artisan shopping, live performances, workshops, Santa visits, and more. Family-friendly, mostly free.

More info

🕯️ Candlelight Stroll
Portsmouth — Dec. 19–21
Step into 350+ years of holiday traditions in the Puddle Dock neighborhood. Enjoy decorated historic houses, costumed role players, wandering musicians, hot cider, a bonfire, and Ice Dance International’s Vintage Christmas Skaters (weather permitting).
More info

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Katy Savage with stories from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect and Sam Cohen. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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