Events in Durham, NH

Family Value Night at Bowl-O-Rama Family Fun Center in Portsmouth, NH features a package priced at $19.95 per person that includes two hours of candlepin bowling with shoe rental, along with a large slice of pizza and a fountain soda. The arcade offers additional entertainment, and the format suits families, groups of friends, date nights, and after school plans.

Star Wars: Unlimited Weekly Play at Diversions Puzzles & Games offers a simple, flexible way to enjoy the game on a regular basis. Sessions continue from each new set’s release and can be a short tournament or a relaxed meetup, depending on the store. With player consensus, the format can be casual constructed 1v1, Twin Suns, or draft. Participation is supported by a special Organized Play kit, and players can earn a unique promo pack each week they take part. Nearby parking includes a free lot about a five minute walk away, a garage about a six minute walk at one dollar per hour, and a lot directly behind the store that costs two dollars per hour for the first three hours, then five dollars per hour for each additional hour.

A welcoming introduction to machine embroidery for beginners. Get hands-on with a Brother embroidery machine while learning setup, safe operation, and how to use different hoop attachments. The session includes a quick orientation to Floriani embroidery software available in the Textiles Lab. Everyone will create a simple polytwill patch with a short phrase, whether that becomes a name tag, a merit badge, or something playful. For practice, the class starts with provided polytwill patches, and successful completion grants full access to the embroidery machine. For safety, avoid loose long hair or clothing since participants will handle sharp tools and needles. Led by instructor Anna Morse. An estimated materials cost of $5 per person covers polytwill, stabilizer, and thread provided for the class. Registration closes two days in advance. Refunds are available up to seven days before the class. Active members receive 25 percent off the list price with code MEMBER.

Historian and curator Dr. Kimberly Alexander traces how an everyday purchase became a political statement during the Revolutionary era. Focusing on footwear, she explains how American women advanced boycott efforts by choosing locally made shoes and by repairing pairs they already owned, actions that weakened British industry and supported the movement for independence. Dr. Alexander serves as Senior Lecturer in the University of New Hampshire History Department and directs Museum Studies. She previously held curatorial posts at the MIT Museum, the Peabody Essex Museum, and Strawbery Banke Museum. Her scholarship centers on material culture and dress history, and her books include Treasures Afoot: Shoe Stories from the Georgian Era and Fashioning the New England Family. This talk is part of the Revolutionary Portsmouth Lecture Series, a collaboration between Strawbery Banke Museum and Portsmouth Historical Society. Lectures rotate between the two venues, so please confirm the location when registering. Admission per lecture is $15 for SBM and PHS members and $20 for nonmembers. Buy three full-price tickets, then receive additional tickets at 25 percent off with code REV250.

Enjoy a calm, beginner-friendly watercolor evening at Gathering Place Studio in Somersworth, centered on painting Mr. Cardinal and the small, comforting moments it represents. The class uses liquid watercolors and provides clear, step-by-step instruction so participants can focus on the experience without stress, even if it is a first time. All materials are included, and everyone leaves with a 9x12 painting. Check-in begins 15 minutes before the start. Guests may bring their own drinks and snacks. The workshop is open to ages 12 and up, with minors attending alongside a paying adult. Capacity is limited to keep the setting cozy. All ticket purchases are final, with no refunds, exchanges, or credits. Tickets may be transferred to another person but not to a different event or date. Photos or video may be taken during class for social media, and anyone who prefers not to be included can send an email in advance.

Harmonica great Charlie Musselwhite appears with acclaimed trio GA-20 at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club in a collaboration that honors the blues tradition while pushing it ahead. Musselwhite, a Grammy Award winner with more than six decades onstage and a defining figure in Chicago blues, joins GA-20, formed in 2018 and recognized nationally for several releases that topped the Billboard Blues chart and for a gritty, high-energy sound rooted in classic electric blues. Their joint album, Blues Now on New West Records, captures immediate live-room chemistry as they mix original songs with fresh takes on time-honored tunes. Expect a set built on grit, groove, and improvisation, creating a cross-generational dialogue that keeps the blues vibrant in the present. The club offers a full-service restaurant, and guests can order food and drinks with table service from their seats during the performance.

Infinity Song brings its continuing world tour to 3S Artspace, showcasing soft rock from four New York City siblings, Abraham, Angel, Israel and Momo Boyd. Their sound blends close-knit harmonies, poetic lyrics and glowing guitar work to create an immersive live experience. Raised on classical, gospel and jazz, and homeschooled in academics and music by parents who founded the Boys & Girls Choirs of Detroit, they have performed since early childhood and draw inspiration from artists like Pat Methany, Marvin Gaye and The Winans Family. Their story traces back to a 2006 move from Detroit to New York, where they built a following with performances across the city, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to Times Square, with years of regular sets by Bethesda Fountain in Central Park turning passersby into dedicated fans and eventually leading to an introduction to JAY-Z. In 2016 they signed with Roc Nation, and in 2020 their debut album Mad Love, paired with viral videos, reached millions and attracted widespread attention. The group’s Metamorphosis era expands their palette across soft rock, pop and soulful melodies. Hater’s Anthem became a breakout moment, endorsed by Doja Cat and shared around the world, drawing comparisons to iconic 70s groups such as Fifth Dimension, The Mamas and The Papas and ABBA. Follow-up singles Slow Burn and Sinking Boat also went viral, fueling even more momentum. A successful 2024 world run included sold-out stops in Los Angeles, Toronto, London, Manchester, Brussels, Berlin and Paris, along with festival appearances at Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza and Pitchfork Paris. A recent live album captures the charge of their stage show and points to what is ahead. This is an all ages, standing show. Tickets are $26 for members, $28 for general admission in advance and $32 for general admission on the day of the show. 3S Artspace is supported in part by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, with lead sponsors including AC Hotel Portsmouth, The Brook, The Fabulous Find, The Kane Company/Tidemark, Katzman Contemporary Projects, Raka, Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel and Stirling Brandworks.

Spend an evening playing Magic: the Gathering in the Commander format. This free gathering welcomes both new and experienced players. Participants should bring their own Commander deck, and it is recommended to call ahead to ask about decks that may be available for purchase. Please check in inside the store upon arrival. In Commander, each deck includes one legendary creature as the commander plus 99 other cards, with only one copy of any card except basic lands, and every card must match the commander’s color identity. Games seat two to six players in a free-for-all. Each player starts at 40 life, commanders begin in the command zone, turns proceed clockwise, and the last player remaining wins. Parking options include a free lot at the Masonic Temple about a five-minute walk away, the Foundry Garage at an hourly rate, and the Worth Lot behind the store with a lower hourly rate for the first three hours and a higher rate for each additional hour.

A reception celebrates Darlene Furbush Ouellett’s exhibition “Sensory Perception,” presenting paintings and mixed-media works that translate her experiences in the garden, on hikes, and along the ocean into evocative reflections on place, with attention to the curious and beautiful details found along the way. Wine and light snacks will be provided, and admission is free and open to the public. Ouellett grew up in southern Connecticut near New York City, surrounded by art and nature and introduced to working artists through her mother, an art and antique collector. After raising her family, she completed a BFA at the University of New Hampshire, received the Corinne Trippetti scholarship, and earned Best of Show honors in regional exhibitions. She has worked as an artist, curator, juror, mentor, and teacher, and her work is included in collections in the United States and abroad.

Take a rare, behind the scenes look at the John Paul Jones House, a historic Portsmouth landmark. Over roughly 90 minutes, participants visit areas that are normally closed to the public, including attic rooms that once served as family bedrooms and today hold collections storage. Along the way, staff share what it takes to care for a site like this and the challenges that come with preserving the past. The experience includes a guided tour of the house and a curator led exploration of the special exhibition titled Revolutionary Portsmouth.

Explore Daggerheart, a new tabletop roleplaying game from Darrington Press. Its card driven mechanics and Duality Dice system bring together tactical choices and narrative freedom, allowing each table to shape play in its own way. Cost is $5. Register in store, as spots are limited.

Explore the basics of wheel throwing in a supportive studio during a single-session, beginner workshop. A short demonstration starts things off, then you will take a seat at the wheel to make your own pieces. Over 90 minutes, expect individual coaching as you practice centering, shaping, and forming a few simple creations while getting comfortable with the process. Clay is reclaimed at the end unless you decide to keep a favorite. For $20 per piece, staff will handle trimming, glazing, and firing so it is ready to use at home. You will select a glaze color before leaving, and finished work will be available for pickup in about 3 to 5 weeks. No prior experience is required. Wear clothing that can get a little messy and bring your curiosity.

3 ALARM takes the stage for a live performance. This event tends to draw a crowd, so early arrival is recommended. All guests are welcome and will be signed in upon arrival. There is no cover charge.

Bad at Math performs live at Thirsty Moose Taphouse - Portsmouth.

Discover a bustling Portsmouth farmers market filled with farm-fresh produce, locally raised meats, dairy, prepared foods, baked treats, and distinctive handmade items. Each week features community guests and live music from talented Seacoast musicians. Shoppers using SNAP can visit the Market Info booth to receive tokens, with a dollar-for-dollar match available through Granite State Market Match. Portable restrooms are available across the street at the South Mill Pond Playground, which also offers a shaded picnic area for enjoying market finds. Pets are not permitted, but service animals are always welcome. Parking is offered in the City Hall Lower Lot with signage at the entrance, with additional parking across the street at the South Mill Pond Playground and accessible spaces directly in front of the City Hall building. An interactive market map is available to see which vendors will be attending.

Participants meet and head out from Community Services, then return to the same location for a group photo with the litter collected. Bags are provided, and a limited number of litter grabber tools and safety vests are available to borrow. Those who want to wear gloves should bring their own. Suitable for first-timers and returning participants alike.

The 26th annual celebration of maritime folk music brings songs of the sea to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA. It begins in Market Square with a strolling chorus of chantey singers moving through downtown, then continues with concerts and workshops at intimate venues across the city, highlighted by a featured concert and additional programs around town. Some workshops encourage group singing on choruses, while others share seafaring history through songs and stories. The event welcomes all ages, admission is free, and donations help support the festival. Performers include JD & The Stonemasons, Tom Kastle, Sara Grey, Kieron Means and Dave MacLurg, Castlebay, Sea Dogs, London Julie, Dirty Blue Shirts, David Coller and Diane Chodkowski, and Cate Clifford. Portions of the festival will also be streamed live on YouTube. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Compete for the title at the Disney Lorcana Attack of the Vines Set Championship. Players can register through the Ravensburger Play Hub, with a $25 entry fee collected in store at check in. Attendance is capped at 32 participants, and check in opens one hour before the start. Matches use a Swiss structure with best of three rounds, each lasting 60 minutes. The number of Swiss rounds scales with turnout, followed by single elimination playoffs for the top performers until a champion is crowned. With 8 or fewer players there are three rounds with no cut. With 9 to 16 players there are four rounds then a cut to the top four. With 17 to 32 players there are five rounds then a cut to the top eight. Prizes include three booster packs added to the pool for every entrant, distributed among the top eight, with the exact number of packs based on attendance. All participants receive a Wilds Unknown booster pack and a Rapunzel promo. First place earns a Mike & Sully Champion playmat, a Rapunzel foil promo, and booster packs. Second place takes home an Attack of the Vines character playmat, a Rapunzel foil promo, and booster packs. Third through eighth place receive a Rapunzel foil promo and booster packs. Additional prizes and promos may be announced on the day of the event. This is a Constructed Core event. Bring a single prebuilt deck of at least 60 cards. There is no maximum deck size, provided it can be shuffled efficiently without assistance. Decks may use no more than two ink colors. No more than four copies of any card sharing the same full English name are allowed, while cards with different subtitles count as different. All released cards are legal. The same deck must be used throughout the tournament. Decklists are not required. Officially banned cards are not permitted, and players should consult the official tournament rules for complete guidance.

At Vernon Family Farm, an evening pairs farm-fresh dining with live music from Slack Tide. The group blends American reggae, jam band style improvisation, and folk-rooted sounds into a constantly evolving mix. Influences from the Grateful Dead, Phish, and 90s ska shape their approach, creating a signature groove to accompany a meal made with ingredients from the farm.

Renowned blues guitarist Ronnie Earl brings the Broadcasters to Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club for a performance rooted in deep, expressive blues. A four-time recipient of the Blues Music Award for Guitar Player of the Year, he has taught at Berklee College of Music and the National Guitar Summer Workshop, released instructional material, and built a celebrated discography across labels including Stony Plain, Black Top, Bullseye Blues, Verve, and Telarc. His album Grateful Heart earned DownBeat Magazine’s Blues Album of the Year, and Hey José was recognized at the Independent Music Awards. Earl has shared the stage with legends such as Hubert Sumlin, Muddy Waters, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Jimmie Vaughan, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Carlos Santana, Eric Clapton, and the Allman Brothers Band, with B.B. King praising him as one of the most serious blues guitarists to be found. Onstage with him are the Broadcasters: Dave Limina on Hammond B3 and piano, a veteran Berklee professor and acclaimed keyboardist; vocalist and harmonica player Diane Blue, the group’s first female member and a powerful voice across soul, blues, and R&B; Forrest Padgett on drums, a seasoned performer with decades of experience; and Grammy-nominated bassist Paul Kochanski, whose versatility and feel anchor the band. Recent releases by Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters have reached the top ten on the Billboard Blues charts and earned wide acclaim. Jimmy’s features a full-service restaurant, with food available for purchase at every performance and seamless table service from your seat. The beverage program includes an award-winning selection of wine and spirits, making it easy to enjoy dinner and drinks during the show.

Enjoy a live performance from Alterego at Thirsty Moose Taphouse - Portsmouth.

Celebrating its 18th year, this uplifting 5K run and walk recognizes the strength and resilience of breast cancer patients and survivors. It offers a heartfelt tribute to those who have faced the disease with courage and grace, honoring their spirit with a supportive, hopeful atmosphere.

Build a solid foundation in MIG welding while getting comfortable with key equipment in the metal shop. Guided by instructor Neil Rudnick, participants will practice with a MIG welder and learn to operate supporting tools such as the drill press, vertical, horizontal and portable band saws, and angle grinders. Safety is emphasized throughout, and those who complete the class will be cleared to use the PCMS metalworking facilities. This beginner friendly course is intended for those with little or no prior shop experience and is recommended before taking additional welding or machining classes. Plan for about four hours of instruction, and consider allowing up to an extra hour afterward for additional hands-on time with the welder. Reviewing the Miller MIG Welding Handbook in advance is encouraged. Wear non synthetic clothing like cotton or canvas, along with long pants, a long sleeve shirt, and closed toe footwear such as boots. Bring a hair tie for long hair, light duty work gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Registration closes two days before the event, and refunds are available up to seven days before the start. Active members receive 25 percent off the list price with code MEMBER.

Discover the bold, opaque beauty of gouache in a friendly, hands-on painting workshop that highlights how this medium differs from traditional watercolor. The session begins with a brief welcome and goals, followed by a quick introduction to participants. A guided overview of supplies explains paper choices, with cold press offering texture and hot press a smooth surface. All materials are provided, including watercolor brushes, water cups and palettes, paper towels, and masking tape, and you are welcome to bring your own paper, paints, and a pencil with an eraser. Traditional gouache is recommended rather than acrylic gouache. A live demonstration covers the properties of gouache, tool and paper selection, and methods for blending and layering color, with time for questions. The heart of the workshop is an extended creative period where you can follow the demo or pursue your own composition while receiving step by step guidance and individualized feedback. Experiment with textures and color as conversation and encouragement keep the energy lively. To close, participants add finishing touches, arrange a mini tabletop gallery for friendly critique, and share takeaways. The workshop wraps with a recap of techniques, resources for continued learning, and feedback collection, and everyone leaves with their own painting. The program runs about two and a half hours, is limited to 10 participants, and the cost is $45. Hosted at The Gathering Place in Somersworth, New Hampshire. Led by Rebecca Marella, a multidisciplinary artist based on the Maine Coast, the class draws on more than a decade of experience with gouache. Rebecca’s background in darkroom and analog photography has expanded into painting, illustration, design, and large scale murals. Her artwork often explores seafaring imagery and themes of inner resilience. She creates for individual and commercial clients, accepts commissions, and photographs weddings and events with a focus on honoring each client’s vision.

Classical guitarist William Ghezzi brings a free program to Portsmouth Public Library (NH) as part of Guitar Sundays, a family-friendly monthly series that spotlights artists from the Seacoast, the wider Boston area, and beyond. Ghezzi has appeared as a soloist and in collaboration with orchestras, chamber groups, choirs, dance companies, and theater productions, with credits that include the Montpelier Chamber Orchestra, the Harry Partch Ensemble, and the Philadelphia Guitar Ensemble. His recordings and performance videos are available on major streaming and video platforms, and his latest release, Portfolio, can be streamed widely. An advocate for new music, he has commissioned numerous works for solo guitar and chamber settings and is an experienced duo and ensemble collaborator. He earned his degree from Temple University, studying with Peter Segal and Anna Kotsarenko, and later continued with Phillip de Fremery, Eliot Fisk, and Vladimir Mikulka. He teaches privately in West Lebanon, New Hampshire. The series is free and open to the public, co-presented by Portsmouth Music and Arts Center and Portsmouth Public Library in association with the Boston Classical Guitar Society, and curated by Mitch Shuldman.

Monsterwatch brings a surge of distortion and adrenaline to The Press Room with a raw, high-energy performance. The Seattle psych-punk trio fuses garage rock, post-punk, grunge, and fuzz-laced psychedelia into songs driven by blistering riffs, anthemic hooks, and a fierce DIY spirit. Their live shows are known for feeling chaotic yet tightly executed, a combination that has earned them a strong reputation in the Pacific Northwest underground. This all ages event is priced at $15 in advance and $18 on the day of the show.

Clipper Tavern hosts a karaoke night with KJ-Dave-O. Attendees can take the mic and enjoy food from the kitchen along with a selection of drinks. A happy hour is also part of the evening.

A Durham Public Library book discussion focuses on The Woman in White. Copies are available at the circulation desk, and digital editions can be accessed through Hoopla or Libby.

Almost Monday brings the Thank God It’s Almost Monday show to an all ages, standing room concert. The San Diego based indie pop trio formed in 2015 by Dawson Daugherty, Luke Fabry, and Cole Clisby continues to perform as the band’s core. Tickets are available at $22 for members, $25 for general admission in advance, and $30 for general admission on the day of the show. A $100 VIP package is offered. A member presale is available for those at the Supporter level and above by using a member code during checkout. The VIP package includes one general admission ticket, access to a meet and greet with the band, early entry, a commemorative VIP laminate, early shopping for tour merchandise, one exclusive merchandise item, and a USB drive featuring unreleased songs. Support for 3S Artspace includes funding in part from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation and lead sponsorship from AC Hotel Portsmouth, The Brook, The Fabulous Find, The Kane Company/Tidemark, Katzman Contemporary Projects, Raka, Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel, and Stirling Brandworks.

Walk That Walk brings its roots and blues sound to The Press Room, a noted performance room in the Northeast. Anticipate a lively, high energy show that invites plenty of movement. Advance tickets are available to secure your place.

On the first Saturday of each month, Diversions Puzzles & Games hosts an extended evening of open board gaming. Bring your own favorites or choose from the shop’s library of strategy and family titles. All are welcome, and outside food is allowed. Please be considerate of other participants’ games and personal belongings. Nearby parking options include free parking at the Masonic Temple Lot about a five minute walk away, the Foundry Garage at about $1 per hour roughly six minutes on foot, and the Worth Lot directly behind the store, which is $2 per hour for the first three hours and $5 per hour for each additional hour.

Two shows at The Music Hall Lounge showcase Heather Shaw, a seasoned stand-up whose rapid-fire wit, sharp perspective, and uncanny Jim Carrey resemblance have built a wide social media following. Her credits include appearances on The Today Show, Access Hollywood, and The Tamron Hall Show, and she has performed alongside Mark Normand, Eric Andre, and Fortune Feimster. She also hosts the weekly podcast Heather Shaw is Kidding, where she riffs on current happenings in pop culture, politics, and beyond.

Sneaky Link performs live at Thirsty Moose Taphouse - Portsmouth.

Grief Circle is a no-cost, group-based art workshop facilitated by Marissa Thibeau for people navigating grief stemming from death, loss, or major life changes. It welcomes those living with complex, layered, or ongoing grief that may not fit a clear timeline, offering a setting that respects many ways of carrying, expressing, and living alongside grief over time. Participants are welcome to arrive as they are and explore expressive drawing practices. Held on the first Tuesday of each month. Monthly registration is requested so a place can be prepared for you.

Cinematic roots rock with wide-open hooks, road-tested stories, and close-knit harmonies fills The Press Room as Briscoe takes the stage. The duo’s evolution shines through songs from Heat of July, a collection shaped by marriage, shifting landscapes, and miles of touring across America. Written on the move and brought to life again with Grammy-nominated producer Brad Cook, the material stretches their folk-rock palette with bigger arrangements, polished vocal blends, and contributions from members of Houndmouth, Hiss Golden Messenger, Bon Iver, Mipso, and Watchhouse. It is a widescreen spin on American roots from two lifelong friends who turn the rush of the highway and the realities of growing up into song. Sharing the bill, Baton Rouge-based country singer-songwriter Noah James brings heartfelt storytelling grounded in his Louisiana roots. At just 18 years old, he has connected with an expanding audience through singles like Set Free, Love Run Cold, and Same Old Things, drawing comparisons to Zach Bryan and Wyatt Flores and amassing more than 50 million TikTok views and over 300,000 followers. With a new deal at Santa Anna and Sony Music, he continues to reach even more listeners. This all-ages show offers tickets at $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event.

At The Press Room, BASIC appears with Chris Brokaw for an evening centered on hypnotic grooves, open-ended interplay, and exploratory sound. All ages are welcome, with tickets priced at $20 in advance and $25 the day of the show. BASIC unites guitarist Chris Forsyth, drummer and electronics artist Mikel Patrick Avery, and Douglas McCombs on Fender Bass VI. Using guitars, a drum machine, a sampler, self-built electronics, and an array of percussion, the trio folds art rock, trance-leaning jazz, collective improvisation, and subtle electronics into a groove-forward approach. Named in a nod to the Robert Quine and Fred Maher album while pursuing musical fundamentals, the group highlights Avery’s blend of programmed beats, a single drum, and hand percussion processed in real time, McCombs’ spacious phrasing and dual-role Bass VI work familiar to fans of Tortoise and Brokeback, and Forsyth’s lyrical touch and quicksilver improvisations. Their self-titled full-length on No Quarter extends the range heard on their debut and a three-song EP, drawing on Tuareg rhythmic currents, angular guitar figures, scratchy funk, dub-deep resonance, and highlife-inspired patterns. Much of the material was captured quickly at Electrical Audio with engineer Nick Broste and finished at Uniform Recording with Jeff Zeigler, favoring minimal overdubs and in-the-moment invention. Chris Brokaw adds a set from a career that spans guitar, drums, and composition. A key contributor to Codeine and Come, he has moved fluidly between raw indie rock, acoustic works, ambient textures, and experimental collaborations with artists including Thurston Moore, Evan Dando, Rhys Chatham, Steve Wynn, and The Lemonheads. His solo album Ghost Ship continues a path that bridges melodic songcraft and the adventurous edges of American indie rock.

This no-cost group art workshop, facilitated by Marisa Companion, offers a supportive circle for people living with chronic illness, disability, neurodivergence, or other ongoing health challenges, including shifting capacity, sensory needs, and changes in identity or daily routines. Participants engage in expressive art journeys guided by music. The circle meets on the second Thursday of each month. Monthly registration is requested to ensure a spot is prepared.

A one day youth theatre workshop from Millspace invites kids ages 9 to 14 to explore improv, acting games, and collaborative creation with a Halloween flavor. Participants build performance and improvisation skills in a relaxed setting, then finish with an improv showcase. The scenes play with fun takes on fear, from everyday jitters like a child nervous at the dentist to fanciful bits like a vampire leading a jazzercise class. Financial assistance is available to keep the program accessible, and questions can be sent to info@millspace.org. Led by local actor and theatre educator Katherine Cusack, the workshop reflects Millspace’s belief that arts education supports personal growth.

Subscribers to the meat box program can pick up the October box at Vernon Family Farm and use the visit to shop for additional farm staples, so bringing a shopping list is helpful. The program provides quality, pasture raised meats and supports the local agricultural community while making it easy to keep the freezer well supplied. Those who are not yet enrolled can try a one time box or register to be included in an upcoming pickup.

This monthly Dungeons & Dragons program offers two three-hour sessions for all experience levels. Bring dice and a pencil. The Dungeon Master will have pre-generated characters available, and personal characters are welcome with levels adjusted as needed. The session fee is $5 per person. One session is full for the remainder of the current campaign, while the other has openings for players new to D&D who can bring a level 1 character or use a premade character. Because space is limited and interest is high, advance sign ups are encouraged by phone, email, or Facebook Messenger.

Cory Branan pairs country roots with punk energy, crafting songs that linger long after the last chord. Across five albums over more than two decades, he has earned praise from outlets such as NPR, Pitchfork, and Rolling Stone, and has played iconic stages like the Ryman as well as the grittiest punk bars. His songs have been covered by Tyler Childers, Frank Turner, and Dashboard Confessional, and past records feature collaborations with Jason Isbell, Laura Jane Grace of Against Me!, and Craig Finn of The Hold Steady. He is even mentioned in a Lucero song, a nod to his sharp, memorable writing. This all-ages show offers tickets at $20 in advance and $25 on the day of.

Heartland indie rock mingles with country folk nostalgia, pedal steel and pop-savvy hooks as Dogwood Tales shares the bill with Ezra Cohen & The Big City Band, shaping songs around place, memory and the pull of home. Hailing from Harrisonburg, Virginia, Dogwood Tales is led by longtime friends Kyle Grim and Ben Ryan with Jake Golibart and Danny Gibney, channeling the Shenandoah Valley’s landscapes, DIY spirit and small town life into their forthcoming album Every Star in Rockingham County. Their sound blends close harmonies, glowing pedal steel, lively drums and tasteful guitar lines with playful nods to video game textures, balancing heavy, personal storytelling with a light, exploratory spark. Song titles like Mt. Jackson, Princess Peach, McMemories and Angel Dreams hint at a mix of intimate snapshots and pop culture touchstones, tracing roads through rural valleys, friendships and the modern ache of loneliness. Rooted in lo-fi country-leaning indie rock and the lineage of American songwriters, the music finds its own path while celebrating the places that shape us. All ages are welcome, with tickets priced at $16 in advance and $18 on the day of the show.

Vitamin String Quartet joins vocal trio Girl Named Tom for The Crazy Ordinary World Tour, uniting VSQ's creative string renditions of pop and rock with the trio's layered harmonies. VSQ, recently featured in Season 4 of Netflix's Bridgerton, is known for turning well known anthems into intricate instrumentals. Girl Named Tom, winners of The Voice in 2021, bring heartfelt songwriting and close harmonies rooted in new American folk. The concert features renewed takes on classics, current hits, and collaborative performances from both acts.

Hosted at the Kittery Lions Clubhouse, this community blood drive brings together the Kittery Lions Club and the Rotary Club of Kittery to support local hospitals and patients in need. The clubhouse is fully accessible. Participants should bring a valid photo ID and arrive well hydrated. It is an opportunity to visit the clubhouse and contribute to a shared service effort by the Rotary and Lions.

A family-friendly Halloween adventure unfolds in the oldest neighborhood in Portsmouth. Collect treats from characters inspired by the nation’s founding while encountering spooky surprises that trace 250 years of American history. Cross paths with wandering pirates and a mysterious fortune teller, listen to eerie stories, craft oversized spider webs, dance to spooky music, and play games for prizes. Those feeling bold can try the witch’s door and ask for a treat. Tickets are available for members and nonmembers. For members, adults ages 1 and up are $8.50 or free, and children under 1 are free with a ticket. For nonmembers, adults ages 1 and up are $17, and children under 1 are free with a ticket.

A special evening at Vernon Family Farm pairs live fire-spinning by longtime fire spinner Courtney Drahms with a high-energy, soulful and exploratory musical tribute to the rock, gospel, soul and rhythm and blues of the Jerry Garcia Band. Diamond Blues performs, led by David Rubin on guitar and vocals, with Robbie Parrish on drums, Ian Brenkle on bass, Caroline Killoh on keys and vocals, and Chris Belden on saxophone and vocals. In a short time together, Diamond Blues has grown into one of New England’s highly regarded jam acts, playing more than 60 shows each year and delivering their take on Jerry’s timeless sound to ecstatic audiences across the region.

Down By Ten delivers a live performance at the Thirsty Moose. Enjoy a set of music from Down By Ten.

Thirsty Moose Portsmouth NH welcomes Down By Ten for a performance.

Millspace Mainstage and Jonesing for Theatre present Carrie: The Musical, adapted from Stephen King’s iconic horror story. In the shadowed halls of high school, Carrie White is isolated by classmates and constrained by her mother’s fanatical control. Beneath her quiet surface, a dangerous power awakens, turning humiliation into fury as the evening hurtles toward catastrophe. With an eerie score, dynamic choreography, and moments designed to make audiences grip their seats, the production fuses psychological horror with raw emotion. It traces a plunge into obsession, cruelty, revenge, and reckoning. Directed by Kat Mail at Newmarket Millspace, this staging reimagines prom night as a turning point that changes everything.

This litter collection walk begins and ends at Henry Law Park. Participants head out to pick up trash and then return to the same spot for a group photo with what has been gathered. Cleanup bags are provided, and a limited supply of litter grabbers and safety vests can be borrowed during the event. If you prefer to wear gloves, please bring your own.

Explore marine science and ocean engineering at the University of New Hampshire during an indoor open house in the Ocean Engineering Lab. Interactive stations and presentations welcome curious minds of every age, with topics that span ocean acoustics to plankton. Get a look at technology used to map the seafloor, see how researchers use data sondes to monitor water quality in the Great Bay Estuary, and learn how acoustic tools help study marine life. Try piloting a remotely operated vehicle, touch a sea star, practice knot tying, and enjoy marine themed arts and crafts. The event is free and designed for families.

The Blind Boys of Alabama bring their signature harmonies and spiritual energy to celebrate 50 years of Stevie Wonder’s Songs in the Key of Life. This special program intertwines classic tracks from that landmark album with favorites from the group’s own repertoire, creating a joyful blend of gospel, soul, and Americana that pays tribute to both artists’ legacies. For more than 75 years, they have lifted hearts through music that carries a message of light and love. Their connection to Stevie Wonder’s work is long standing. In 2003 they earned a Grammy for an album featuring their acclaimed rendition of Higher Ground, a version later heard in film and television, including FX’s Fargo. In 2007, Stevie Wonder honored longtime vocalist Jimmy Carter with a Vision Award for Lifetime Achievement, recognizing the group’s enduring cultural impact. Expect beloved songs like “Sir Duke,” “I Wish,” “As,” and more, delivered with the warmth, power, and impeccable harmonies that define the Blind Boys’ sound. TIME Magazine has praised their ability to find the perfect notes and harmonies that elevate familiar tunes to something truly sublime. Special thanks are extended to Music Series sponsors McFarland Hyundai, Raka Creative, and 92.5 The River.

Millspace Mainstage and Jonesing for Theatre present Carrie: The Musical, a blood-chilling stage adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic horror tale. In the high school corridors, Carrie White is isolated by relentless bullying while her mother’s extreme control closes in. Beneath her quiet surface, a dangerous power is stirring. When shame hardens into fury, the production erupts with an eerie score and high-impact choreography, fusing psychological terror with visceral emotion. Under shimmering prom lights and drifting haze, the story races toward a night steeped in obsession, cruelty, vengeance, and hard consequences. Directed by Kat Mail at Newmarket Millspace.

Texas blues-rock powerhouse Ally Venable brings blazing guitar work, soulful vocals, and a high-energy presence to Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club. Recognized by Guitar World among the young artists revitalizing the Gibson Les Paul and honored with the Independent Blues Music Road Warrior award, she formed her band at 13 and has since placed multiple albums at the top of the Billboard Blues chart, including Texas Honey and Heart of Fire. Her touring has carried her across the United States and Europe, sharing bills with Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Colin James, and her releases feature collaborations with Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa. The club offers a full-service dining experience during the show. Food is available for purchase at every performance, there is no need for reservations, and guests receive full table service at their seats. An award-winning selection of wines and spirits is available, and you can enjoy a relaxed pre-show meal or continue ordering throughout the performance.

Auspicious Brew hosts a night of live music featuring performances by Grub Lord, Cozy Throne, and Ezra Cohen & the Big City Band. Admission is $15 in advance or $18 on the day of the show. This all-ages event embraces an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome who welcomes others.

Celebrate Halloween at Saddle Up Saloon with live music from Bite the Bullet delivering lively, high-energy takes on top 40 hits. The evening includes costume competitions with prizes in several categories, plus spooky-themed drink and food specials available throughout the night.

Exeter Parks & Recreation presents an eight day experience focused on Finland’s northern lights and cultural highlights, with an itinerary that spans Lapland and Helsinki. The trip follows an explorations travel style and is rated Activity Level 3, Active. Twelve meals are included, and pricing begins at $5,999 per person. For more information, contact David Tovey.

JR Richards, original lead vocalist and songwriter for the platinum-selling band Dishwalla, appears at The Music Hall Lounge. Across more than two decades he has sold millions of records, written chart-topping songs, and toured internationally. He co-wrote the U.S. number one single Counting Blue Cars for Dishwalla, a track that earned Billboard’s Rock Song of the Year in 1996 and ASCAP Song of the Year in 1997 and 1998. With his bandmates he released five notable albums, including the platinum Pet Your Friends. His solo catalog includes A Beautiful End, Honore et Amore, the acoustic collection Stripped, and the covers set Under The Cover, with a fifth album, My Darkest Hour, released in 2025. His music has been featured in films and television such as American Pie, How I Met Your Mother, Charmed, Smallville, One Tree Hill, Criminal Minds, and NCIS.

Croptoberfest offers a multi-day creative retreat for scrapbookers, card makers, and crafters of all kinds at the Best Western Hotel & Suites in Portsmouth. Settle into your own reserved workspace that stays set for you throughout the weekend, with free Wi-Fi, plenty of outlets, snacks, water, surprise gifts, and lots of opportunities for door prizes. The hotel connects to the Round-About Diner for convenient meals, and the area features ample shopping and many restaurant choices. Expect theme nights, games, idea sharing, and plenty of inspiration, whether reconnecting with longtime friends or meeting new crafting companions. Registration options include a four-day weekender at $200 with an exclusive Croptoberfest gift bag, extra weekend gifts, special and regular door prize tickets, and your own table for the duration, as well as a three-day weekender at $175 that includes an exclusive gift bag, regular door prize tickets, and a dedicated table. A $100 minimum deposit is required to reserve a weekender package, and capacity is limited to 50 weekenders to ensure comfortable crafting space. If space remains, additional two-day and one-day choices may be offered, priced at $100 and $50, each including a Croptoberfest gift bag. Hotel accommodations and meals are not included and are optional. Guests can share rooms to reduce costs, and only one person from a group should place the room reservation. All rooms include a refrigerator and microwave. When booking, use the group name Bev’s Creative Memories.

Enjoy a no-cost, community clothing swap where anyone can refresh their wardrobe without spending a penny. Bring a bag or more of clean, gently used pieces that no longer suit you, then head home with items that feel new to you. Clothing, shoes, and accessories for adults and kids of all sizes are welcome. When possible, separate adult items from kids’ items up to around age 14, and include winter wear too. If you would be comfortable giving it to a friend, it is ideal for the swap. Every style has a place here… vintage, fancy, practical, quirky, or brand-new pieces that were never worn. Participation does not require bringing items, so you are welcome even if you arrive empty-handed.

Paper Jam is a zine fest in Newmarket, New Hampshire that brings together artists, writers, printmakers, and independent publishers from the Seacoast and greater New England. It focuses on self-expression through print and independent publishing, fostering a welcoming setting where people can share their voices and connect with a creative community.

AJ Lee & Blue Summit share the bill with The Cody Sisters for an evening of inventive bluegrass and contemporary acoustic music. AJ Lee & Blue Summit emerged from the Santa Cruz, California bluegrass community and have grown into a nationally recognized roots group. The lineup features AJ Lee on mandolin, Jan Purat on fiddle, Sullivan Tuttle on guitar, and Sean Newman on bass. Their third studio album, City Of Glass, arrived on Signature Sounds in 2024, followed by the 2025 covers collection Cover to Cover V.1, which highlights a wide range of influences and includes guest appearances by Lindsay Lou, Trey Hensley, Ahn Phung, Kyle Tuttle, Molly Tuttle, and former member Scott Gates. The Cody Sisters bring driving instrumentals and close harmonies, with sisters Megan (guitar, mandolin, vocals) and Maddie (guitar, banjo, vocals) joined by bassist Will Pavilonis. Their self-titled EP from 2023 marked a new chapter, pairing fresh sounds with deep bluegrass roots. With Archipelago, they continue to refine an original style that resonates with audiences in the U.S. and abroad. This all-ages performance features a partially seated setup. Ticket options include general admission standing at $20 in advance or $25 day of show, general admission seating at $25 in advance or $30 day of, and reserved seating at $35 in advance or $40 day of. Members receive discounted pricing, with general admission standing at $18 and seated options from $22 to $31, along with early access to purchase for those at the Supporter level and above using a Member code. Support is provided in part by a grant from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, with lead sponsors including AC Hotel Portsmouth, The Brook, The Fabulous Find, The Kane Company/Tidemark, Katzman Contemporary Projects, Raka, Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel, and Stirling Brandworks.

John Herman presents an in-depth look at Wentworth Cheswill, a pioneering yet often overlooked figure in early American history. An archaeologist and messenger rider, and the first individual of African descent to hold elected public office in the United States, Cheswill’s path stretched from enslavement to prominent civic service. The talk explores his enduring impact and connects his life to the wider arc of Black history in New England during the Revolutionary period. Herman is an artist, educator, and performer whose work brings local stories to life through visual art and improvisational theatre. He has been featured on NH PBS’s Granite State Challenge as part of America250 programming and is the author of Wentworth Cheswill’s Ride: Chasing a Would-Be American Folk Hero. This program is part of the Revolutionary Portsmouth Lecture Series, a collaboration between Strawbery Banke Museum and Portsmouth Historical Society presented in conjunction with each organization’s exhibition, Revolutionary Portsmouth. The series highlights historians and scholars who delve into the people, events, and everyday experiences that shaped Portsmouth during the American Revolution and its legacy. Lectures rotate between the two institutions. Admission is $15 for SBM and PHS members and $20 for nonmembers. When three full-price tickets are purchased, additional tickets are 25 percent off with code REV250.

Grammy winner Patti Austin brings seven decades of artistry to the stage at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club, spanning jazz, R&B, and pop with the acclaim of Best Jazz Vocal Album for Avant Gershwin and multiple Grammy nominations. Her chart-topping collaborations with James Ingram, including Baby Come To Me and How Do You Keep The Music Playing, and appearances on the Academy Awards and the Grammys reflect a storied career. Audiences can expect a set rooted in the Great American Songbook, delivered with soaring vocals, polished showmanship, and timeless soul. The club provides a full-service dining experience with seamless table service available throughout the performance, complemented by an award-winning selection of wine and spirits.

Expect the same great atmosphere with a new band and a refreshed menu. Enjoy a refined dinner paired with live entertainment while marking the end of the riding season, sharing stories, and strengthening the sense of community. A raffle, a 50/50, and door prizes will run throughout the evening. The event is expected to sell out again, and tickets and tables are available on a first come, first served basis. Reservations are confirmed only when payment is received in full.

Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club welcomes songwriter, singer, and multi-instrumentalist John Splithoff for a solo stop on his Stripped Tour. Drawing on vintage soul influences, contemporary production, and laid-back pop sensibilities, he will revisit favorites from his catalog with fresh, pared-back arrangements following the release of his sophomore album Far From Here. A Chicago native, Splithoff first gained wide attention with his single “Sing to You,” which has surpassed 100 million streams, earned prominent placement on Spotify playlists, and reached the top 8 at AC radio. He has toured internationally as a headliner and appeared at major festivals including Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo, cultivating performances that balance intimacy with high energy. The club offers a full-service restaurant with food available for purchase throughout the show, no reservations required, and full table service at your seat. The wine and spirits program has received Wine Spectator recognition for four consecutive years from 2023 to 2026.

Cat5 fall time brings a Portsmouth-style fall party to Thirsty Moose Taphouse for foliage fans.

The Kittery Lions Club teams up with the American Red Cross for a community blood drive that makes a difference close to home. Donated blood helps maintain a reliable supply for local hospitals. To prepare, eat a good meal beforehand, stay well hydrated, and bring identification with a photo.

Enjoy an appearance by Wacko Magnet Duo at Navy Yard Bar & Billiards.

Radio Roulette makes a return to Revo Casino in Dover, New Hampshire for a night centered on dancing and live music. The band brings a set built for dancing, keeping the floor moving throughout the show.

Participants gather at Beckwith Park to begin a litter collection walk, then return to the same location for a group photo with the litter they collected. Bags are provided, and a limited number of litter grabber tools and safety vests are available to borrow. Anyone who prefers to wear gloves should bring their own.

Remember to bring your camera for photos.

Explore New England’s go-to marketplace for alternative art, where local artists, makers, and creators showcase their work. Browse distinctive pieces, from original artwork and handcrafted goods to jewelry, curiosities, and witchcraft-inspired items, all curated with an offbeat spirit. Every purchase supports small businesses and independent creatives. Whether your tastes lean mystical, spooky, eclectic, or unconventional, you will find plenty to discover. Celebrate alternative culture in a friendly, creative community setting and uncover one-of-a-kind finds. Shop small, shop local, and embrace the alternative.

Admission is free. Bring your camera to take your own pictures.

PMAC presents a shared program featuring the New Horizons Band alongside the New Horizons Beginner Band. Admission is free, and voluntary contributions are appreciated. The exact location will be announced.

Millspace Mainstage presents The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon, a whirlwind parody of the made for TV holiday movie universe. Expect playful nods to snow blanketed small towns, big city professionals stumbling into love, high stakes cookie contests, surprise romances, and a touch of Christmas magic. Written by Don Zolidis and directed by Will Saxe, this high energy comedy races through quick scenes with hilarious characters and speedy costume changes that keep the laughter going. It delivers a festive night of theater filled with comedy and seasonal cheer.