Family events in Keene, NH

This lively farmers market brings together beloved vendors and fresh, locally made foods that celebrate area agriculture. Visitors can talk with the people who grow and prepare the offerings, with most items produced less than 20 miles away. Families will find activities for kids, shoppers can look for customer incentives, and live music sets a fun mood that makes a grocery run feel like a show.

An annual trick-or-treating vendor fair returns with a day of Halloween fun for all ages. Children are invited to wear costumes and collect treats from one vendor to the next while families browse unique finds from local vendors and crafters. Costumes are encouraged, there is plenty of shopping to explore, and the focus is on festive, family-friendly activities. The first 25 children registered receive a free goodie bag.

Children's Survival 101 introduces essential wilderness know-how in a hands-on format with Owl Eyes Wilderness Survival. Guided by Tim Swanson, the organization’s founder and lead instructor, kids practice safe use and sharpening of carving tools, start fires with modern methods, build debris shelters, choose appropriate outdoor clothing, assemble a personal survival kit, and learn ways to signal for rescue. Every participant leaves with the project they worked on, often completed by the end of class. This class welcomes beginners as well as those with prior experience. There is no set age limit, but attendees need to be able to handle a carving tool, which commonly suits ages seven and older. This is not a drop-off program. A parent must remain for the full duration. Adult participation is optional, and there is no fee for parents to attend. Suggested items to bring include an OEWS Basic or Complete Kit, water, snacks, and clothing suitable for the weather and bugs.

Experience Irish entertainment from across the Northeast on three stages. For 2026, the event grows with a larger band lineup, more vendors, expanded food choices, and additional activities for children.

Discover the craft and history of Connecticut River Valley brooms through a live demonstration. A guide will use an 1840s era broom machine to make a broom while explaining how methods changed over time and how the region became the nation’s broom making center in the early nineteenth century. This program is made possible by Americana Corner and the Early American Industries Association.

Celebrate Halloween at Winchendon Community Park with an evening of costumes, music, and community spirit. This family-friendly outdoor gathering features live performances, costume contests for both kids and adults, and seasonal activities for all ages. General admission is $5, and children 12 and under are free. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, including local beer and wine, farm-fresh options, handmade boba tea, and pumpkin spice favorites. Presented by Winchendon Parks & Recreation, it offers a lively setting for friends and families to dress up and enjoy festive fun together under the lights.

This weekly Make & Take at Frank’s Fabrics & Crafts offers free, hands-on projects you can complete on site and take home. Each Monday brings a new activity, with several options to choose from. It is suitable for kids and does not require registration. Materials are limited and participation is available on a first come basis.

Enjoy a sensory-friendly trunk-or-treat where children can celebrate Halloween in a way that feels comfortable, with calming activities, festive goodies, and plenty of candy. The event takes place in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment at the Fitchburg Learning Center. It is free and open to the public, and costumes are optional.

Children ages 6 to 11 can relax and explore their imaginations with the library’s LEGO collection in a welcoming, drop-in setting. The Carnegie Library in Turners Falls is reachable by FRTA bus routes 22, 24, and 32 to the Food City stop, or by route 23 to the Ave A and 3rd Street stop. Accessibility features include a wheelchair ramp with an automatic door and one accessible parking space on the 7th Street side of the building. A restroom is available, though the entrance is not ADA compliant. For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, contact library director Caitlin Kelley at librarydirector@montague-ma.gov or 413-863-3214 ext. 6 in advance of a visit.

At the Gardner Family Resource Center, Art Hour creates a casual, welcoming space where children and families can explore creative projects together. This biweekly session provides all necessary supplies and offers light snacks and drinks, making it easy for participants of all ages to take part. No registration is needed, and drop-ins are welcome.

Geared toward dedicated teen artists who want to elevate their work, this class centers on the fundamentals of academic drawing and painting through direct observation. Students practice with still life setups, landscapes, and live portrait studies, building a sharper understanding of proportion, light, form, and color. A mix of techniques, guided prompts, and exposure to diverse art styles, as well as modern and contemporary movements and artists, offers structure and inspiration. Participants refine skills in many areas and learn from one another during art school style critiques. In addition to in-class prompts and assignments, students may choose to pursue an independent project and receive guidance and feedback.

Dress up in a favorite costume for a Halloween story, a lively dance party, and candy to kick off the Halloween Stroll. The celebration takes place in the Greenwood Meeting Room at the library and is designed for children ages 0 to 5.

Designed for infants, toddlers, and their caregivers, this free gathering features engaging stories, interactive songs, and open play that supports early development. The environment is warm and child focused, with plenty of chances to meet other families. Light refreshments are available for both children and adults. No registration is required, and families may drop in.

Teens can drop in at The HUB for a free hangout with bowling, ice cream, and casual games. The setting is low pressure and welcoming, offering an easy place to relax and spend time with friends. Sponsored by The United Way of North Central MA.