Events in Manchester today

Hair We Go: Respect Your Crown is a four-hour, hands-on natural hair care workshop that focuses on discipline, self-care, and confidence. Aligned with youth development and essential life skills, this empowering session embraces the message that your hair is your crown and encourages participants to wear it with confidence.

Come enjoy a fun, interactive magic show packed with tricks and illusions. All are welcome, and admission is free. No registration is required.

Stories for All Senses brings together The Bookery, ABA Center of America, and PMV Educational Advocacy for a gentle storytime paired with movement and a hands-on activity. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming so children can explore at their own pace through imaginative play and interactive moments. Designed for ages 3 to 8 and their caregivers, this free community gathering supports a variety of learning styles while encouraging connection, curiosity, and confidence.

Enjoy live music by NH-based singer-songwriter Matt Litzinger at Bookery Manchester. This in-person set runs for about two hours on Saturday, August 8, with the event also described as being at Bookery Manchester and Proba Cafe.

An afternoon of jazz with the Alex Minasian Trio caps the summer reading program. The trio pays homage to icons like Charlie Parker and Thelonious Monk and features favorites from the Great American Songbook. Pianist Alex Minasian holds two NYU degrees and has built a multifaceted career as a performer, educator, and impresario across multiple musical styles, studying under Hank Jones, Don Friedman, Jean-Michel Pilc, and James Williams. He has appeared with artists such as James Ingram, Arturo Sandoval, Questlove, Sam Moore, Marilyn McCoo, Curtis Fuller, and Clark Terry, and has collaborated with Brian Lynch, Annie Ross, Billy Pierce, Sheila Jordan, Eric Alexander, and Hugh Masekela. In 2013, Minasian, Disterheft, and veteran drummer Steve Williams, noted for his work with Shirley Horn, formed the Hanky Panky Trio in tribute to Hank Jones; the group was featured in Season 2 of the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black and performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival with Sheila Jordan as well as at the Istanbul Jazz Festival. Minasian currently tours with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Little Anthony and the Imperials and with soul legend Candi Staton.

Enjoy a relaxed storytime with as many as three read-alouds, or fewer if a longer tale is chosen. Late arrivals are welcome, so you will not miss out if you arrive after it begins. The program is intended for toddlers and children in Pre-K through second or third grade who like having stories read to them. Ample parking is available at the venue.

At Fisher Cats Stadium in Manchester, this baseball fundraiser includes a designated TLC seating section. Every ticket contributes $5 to the Children and Youth camp fund. The game also features Star Wars Night, and fireworks are planned at the stadium.

At the Bishop O’neil Center, Nextgen Championship Wrestling presents an evening of traditional, all-ages pro wrestling featuring rising talent from across New England. Cheer for favorites like the Funtime Boy Kidd V, Big Bad Teddy Jaxx, Nova Michaels, and Maestro Morey as they take on Malos Morgan of the Church of Filth, The Bleeding Edge Jason Vaunt, Brother Abel, and others. A free meet and greet with the athletes is included, and souvenirs along with budget-friendly merchandise will be available to support local wrestling. General admission is $20, with tickets available on Eventbrite and at the door, and children 10 and under are free. Aspiring wrestlers can connect with the team from Next Gen Wrestling Center, billed as the most affordable pro wrestling school in New England, who will be on site with free classes and special sign-up offers.

Harmonious Action Group is a weekly Drug Addicts Anonymous meeting that provides a supportive setting to connect, share experiences, and focus on recovery. A monthly business meeting is also part of the schedule.

Brendan Saglow brings his stand-up comedy to The Moka Pot in Manchester for a live, in-person show. The lineup also includes Holly Johnston, with Nick Gyorda listed as part of the event.

Get ready for a full day of monster truck mayhem at Hopkinton Fairgrounds with 2X Monster Trucks Live on August 8, featuring big-name trucks taking over the track for racing, wheelies, and freestyle action. Expect nonstop entertainment including crushed-car spectacle, plus family-friendly activities like ride opportunities in a monster truck, kids’ events (including Power Wheels races and driver meet-and-greets), food, vendors, and official merchandise. There are also optional all-access upgrades that add extra perks such as a pre-show meet-and-greet and VIP items.

Pet Sounds Live brings a Beach Boys multimedia album experience to The Palace Theatre in Manchester, New Hampshire. Performed by studio musicians, the concert celebrates Brian Wilson’s landmark album that changed the course of rock and roll, placing the audience inside the studio to witness how the music came together alongside its live performance. It revisits cherished songs that helped define the genre.

Chris Gendron is performing at Tuscan Village North in Salem, New Hampshire. The show starts at 12:00 PM.

At New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Lil' Iguana's Kindness Day celebrates compassion, inclusion, and the ripple effect of small, positive actions. Before the game, games, music, giveaways, and other kid-friendly activities are planned. During the game, smiles will be shared throughout the stadium while highlighting local businesses, community champions, and families who weave kindness into everyday life. The day features "It's Easy to Be Kind" wristbands, a live singalong of the "It's Easy to Be Kind" song in the stands, photo opportunities with Lil' Iguana, and a look at the Kindness Workbook with related resources. Proceeds support Lil' Iguana's Children's Safety Foundation and its mission of helping children stay safe, grow strong, and practice kindness.

The Bookmobile returns to Livingston Park near the play area. A guest reader hosts an outdoor story time, a Girl Scout STEM van leads a STEM activity, and there is one free book to take home.

Join the NH Nexus Summit for a half-day focused on early care and education and how it impacts New Hampshire’s workforce, economy, and future. You’ll start with registration and a networking lunch, then move into multiple panels and interactive breakout conversations with young professionals, community leaders, employers, policymakers, and advocates. The day wraps up with a rooftop social and cocktail reception to keep the conversation going with new connections.

A free line dancing session that welcomes beginners and newcomers, and no partner is required.

Dive into a summer of brainteasers with a weekly escape room series, where each session brings a new scenario and fresh clues to crack. This week features Cool Caves. Capacity is limited, and advance registration is required to make sure every player can contribute. Participants must be entering grades 3 through 12. Registration opens two weeks before the program. Call 603-624-6550 ext. 7628.

Kids can bounce through the inflatable playground and make their own gooey slime during a play session at Cowabunga's Indoor Kids Play & Party Center - Manchester. A slime-making station is available throughout play time, so little ones can craft their creation whenever it suits them. This hands-on experience offers plenty of fun while supporting mindfulness and building dexterity.

The Summer Pokémon League welcomes trainers of every age and experience level. Led by Pokémon Professors Isaiah and Holly, each session focuses on practical activities that strengthen fundamentals for the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Beginners can learn the basics and returning players can refine their strategy. There is a $5 entry. Every time you participate, you will assemble a deck from bulk cards following set guidelines and you get to keep what you build at the end of the day. By tackling a variety of challenges, you earn League Points that can be exchanged for rewards such as playmats and sleeves when the season concludes.

A mall storytime welcomes little ones for ice cream themed tales in the play area by the food court. Children can also make a simple craft to take home. This gathering is designed for families with kids ages 1 to 5. For details, call 603-624-6550 ext. 7628.

Stark Park hosts an outdoor art experience from The Porch. Brandy, the Artist in Residence, brings a broad selection of carefully chosen materials and sets up an outdoor classroom where art making is open ended and exploratory. The emphasis is on curiosity, collaboration, and tactile discovery, inviting attendees to create at their own pace.

Offered every other week, the Slime-of-the-Month Club invites participants in grades 1-12 to reserve a spot and craft a bowl of slime to take home. This session features rock slime. Registration opens two weeks before the program, and space is limited. Participants must be entering grades 1-12 to register. For details or to register, call 603-624-6550 ext. 7628.

Families can visit the children's room for a relaxed game night, with a selection of board games and puzzles to enjoy while browsing for books. For more information, call 603-624-6550 ext. 7628.

Join Hal Holiday for an acoustic music night at Spyglass Brewing Company featuring Country, Folk, and Roots-Rock tunes. This is a laid-back evening of live music in the brewery.

Open to all ages who already have a basic grasp of drawing, this session centers on building confidence with the fundamentals. Participants will revisit essential techniques, spend time sketching from life, and, if there is extra time, try a few playful drawing exercises. If you are aiming for a particular project or skill, please note your goal during registration.

This in-person SheConnects networking gathering brings together women business owners and women-led nonprofit leaders who want to grow both professionally and personally. The emphasis is on genuine, conversation-driven connections that open the door to collaboration, idea sharing, and peer learning within a warm, supportive community of like-minded women. Attendees can expect a welcoming setting with room to build authentic relationships that extend beyond simple business contacts. Attendance is free, and the tone is low pressure with a focus on meaningful connection. Hosted by Mode Salon and Wellness, with leadership from Deana Horne.

Weather permitting, attendees meet at Pressed Cafe in Bedford, NH for a relaxed gathering with coffee, good food, and lively conversation.

Miss Katie leads a lively session of stories, songs, movement, and playful activities for children ages 2 to 5. Each week features singing, dancing, and play centered on the current summer reading theme. Weather and time permitting, some activities may take place outdoors, so participants should be ready for outdoor play. Registration is required and opens two weeks before the program date. For more information, call 624-6550 ext. 7628.

Make the middle of the week more fun with a two-hour playtime session for $10, a half-off deal available every Wednesday. This offer is available only online and space is limited, so booking ahead online is recommended.

This hands-on painting session welcomes students in grades 6 through 12 and offers the choice to work with acrylic or watercolor. Participants can explore their own subject matter with plenty of creative freedom, or draw inspiration from themes that will be available. The cost is $50 per session. If there is a specific goal in mind, that can be noted during registration.

Designed for kids in grades K-5, this hands-on program with Ms. Amanda turns participants into Dino Detectives. Through paleontology themed activities and games, children explore and learn about the giant creatures of long ago. Registration is required and opens two weeks before the program date. For more information, call 624-6550 ext. 7628.

Teens in grades 6 through 12 can enjoy a pizza-and-a-movie night featuring Bill & Ted: Face the Music. Please register ahead of time so organizers can plan the right amount of pizza, and include your favorite topping when you sign up. For more information, call 603-624-6550 ext. 7628.

Pile is set to perform at Tiger Den Goods in Milford. The show is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM, with tickets available through Bandsintown.

At the Discovery Zone Table, kids can immerse themselves in imaginative play and explore at their own pace. The focus is pet care with a stuffed animal clinic. Children may bring a favorite stuffed animal from home or borrow one provided to take part in the experience.

These sessions offer guided instruction in ceramics and woodworking, including techniques such as whittling and wood carving. They are open to any age, as long as participants can work independently with gentle instruction. The cost is $100 per session. If you have a specific project or goal in mind, share it during registration so the instruction can focus on what you want to achieve.

A weekly drop-in project for teens in grades 6 through 12 takes place in the Winchell Room. This session features making skeleton soap bars by melting, tinting, and shaping soap to encase a small dinosaur skeleton. Registration is required so there are enough supplies for all participants. For more information, call 603-624-6550 ext. 7628.

An evening dedicated to creative exchange unfolds at the Manchester Distillery Tasting Room. Artists working in any medium, from painting and drawing to photography, can bring a work in progress to share in a welcoming setting. Expect constructive peer feedback, thoughtful conversation, and fresh perspectives that can help move a stalled project forward. Emerging artist Meagan Killian explores where anatomy meets architecture, investigating what she considers architectural physiology, the shared structural and functional systems of bodies and buildings. By examining symmetry and asymmetry across skeletal frameworks, organ networks, and muscular forms, and by fragmenting architectural elements, her practice draws parallels of support, circulation, fragility, and adaptation. She holds a Master of Fine Arts from the University at Buffalo. Calder Kamin transforms discarded materials into meticulously crafted creatures while encouraging others to approach the future with creativity and courage. Her recycled art and public workshops have appeared at institutions across the United States, among them The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Utah MOCA, The American Museum of Natural History, The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation, The DoSeum, The Currier Museum of Art, the Contemporary Austin, The Amon Carter Museum, The Mobile Museum of Art, and Women & Their Work. From 2021 to 2026 she completed 19 residencies in 10 states, and she is the 2026 Artist in Residence at Englewood Arts in Independence, MO and The Factory in Manchester, NM. Kamin holds a double Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics and Art History from the Kansas City Art Institute, and she was born, raised, and maintains a home base in Austin, Texas.

Spend focused time creating in an open studio. Bring a project you already have, or, for an additional fee, choose a project available for purchase and make it your own. The cost is $30.

Experience an NSSF First Shots program created for women who are curious about firearms and want a clear, welcoming starting point. This beginner-friendly session at Manchester Firing Line Range, LLC emphasizes safety, education, and confidence in a supportive, no-pressure setting. Participants receive a classroom safety orientation, hands-on guidance from certified instructors, and supervised live-fire range time, with firearms and ammunition provided. The event is presented in partnership with Iron Rose Women’s Shooting Club, a women-focused community committed to education, responsible ownership, and growth at every stage of the shooting journey. Whether it is a first visit to the range or a chance to build a strong foundation, attendees are guided every step of the way. No prior experience is required, and all equipment is included.

Get ready for a fun, hands-on resin class where you’ll design realistic ocean waves on a 12” x 5.5” wooden tray. The instructor, Brigitte, will walk you through the process step by step, including working with two-part resin, resin pigments, and the tools and techniques you’ll use to create a beachy look with seashells and starfish. The finished project will be left to cure overnight, and you can pick it up the next business day. Advance online reservations are required. Please bring an apron or crafting shirt. No refunds, and no transfers (you can give your ticket to someone else to attend).

WWE is back at SNHU Arena in Manchester with the WWE Summer Tour, featuring favorite WWE Superstars live for an evening filled with standout moments, fierce rivalries, and nonstop energy. Tickets are on sale now.

Spyro Gyra is bringing their cool jazz, jazz-funk, and smooth jazz sound to Tupelo Music Hall. The show is scheduled for 8:00 PM local time at the venue in Derry.