Events in Portsmouth, NH

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.

Enjoy a rare behind the scenes look at the John Paul Jones House, a noted Portsmouth landmark. This approximately 90 minute tour opens areas that are typically off limits, including attic rooms that once served as family bedrooms and now protect stored collections. Staff share insights into the everyday work of caring for a historic site. The experience also features a guided walkthrough of the house and a curator led visit to the special exhibition “Revolutionary Portsmouth.”

A reception celebrates Darlene Furbush Ouellett and Sensory Perception, an exhibition of paintings and mixed media that translate her sense of place into visual form, drawing on time in the garden, hikes, ocean walks, and the small wonders noticed along the way. Complimentary wine and light snacks will be available. Ouellett grew up in southern Connecticut near New York City in a home immersed in art and nature, with early exposure to working artists through her mother, an art and antique collector. After raising her family she returned to her practice, earning a BFA from the University of New Hampshire, receiving the Corinne Trippetti scholarship, and winning Best of Show awards in regional exhibitions. She has worked as an artist, curator, juror, mentor, and teacher, and her work appears in collections across the United States and internationally. Admission is free and open to the public.

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.

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.

Equine First Aid Education at Reining Hope offers a two-course learning experience created for horse owners, enthusiasts, and equine professionals. With practical, hands-on training led by expert instructors, participants develop the confidence and skills to respond when a horse needs immediate care. The first session focuses on equine health and emergency first aid, including how to recognize and manage common crises, communicate clearly with veterinarians, and provide prompt support that safeguards a horse’s well-being. The advanced session builds on those fundamentals with deeper work in trauma response, strategies to reduce the risk of injury, and thorough planning for emergencies.

The 26th annual Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival brings sea songs, community singing, and maritime traditions to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It opens in Market Square with a roaming chorus of chantey singers moving through downtown, then unfolds across the city with concerts and workshops at cozy venues. A big concert anchors Saturday night, followed by more music and learning sessions on Sunday. Featured performers include JD & The Stonemasons, Tom Kastle, Sara Grey with Kieron Means and Dave MacLurg, Castlebay, Sea Dogs, London Julie, Dirty Blue Shirts, David Coller with Diane Chodkowski, and Cate Clifford. Some workshops are participatory, inviting voices to join in on choruses, while others share stories and insights about life at sea through song. The festival is family friendly and free to attend, with donations welcomed to support the music. Portions of the program will also be available to watch online, and additional details will be announced.

Compete for the title at the Disney Lorcana Attack of the Vines Set Championship, a tournament that crowns one undefeated player at the end. Players can register through the Ravensburger Play Hub. The entry fee of $25 is paid in store at check in, participation is capped at 32 players, check in opens one hour before the start, and no decklist submission is needed. Swiss rounds are played as best of three with 60 minutes per round. The number of Swiss rounds depends on attendance, followed by best of three playoffs in single elimination until a champion is determined. With 8 or fewer participants there are three Swiss rounds and no cut. With 9 to 16 participants there are four Swiss rounds then a cut to the top four. With 17 to 32 participants there are five Swiss rounds then a cut to the top eight. Prizes include the official awards plus three booster packs per attendee added to a shared prize pool that is distributed among the top eight, with quantities based on turnout. Additional prizes and promos may be announced on the day. Every participant receives a Rapunzel promo card and booster packs, and also receives one Wilds Unknown booster pack. First place earns a Mike & Sully Champion playmat, a Rapunzel foil promo card, and booster packs. Second place receives 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. This event uses the Constructed Core format. Bring one deck built in advance with at least 60 cards. There is no maximum deck size, but the deck must be easy to shuffle without help. Decks may include cards from no more than two ink colors, and no more than four copies of any card with the same full English name. All released cards are legal, the same deck must be used throughout, and officially banned cards are not allowed. For full policy details, refer to the official tournament rules.

The event features Ronnie Earl & The Broadcasters.

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

Marking its eighteenth year, the Celebrate Pink 5K run and walk at Portsmouth Middle School honors breast cancer patients and survivors. This five-kilometer event recognizes courage, grace, and resilience at every step.

Coastal Sundays set a relaxed tone at Shearwater Restaurant at Stage Neck Inn, where brunch features sweet breakfast favorites, savory classics, and handcrafted cocktails, all enjoyed with York Harbor in view. This is a weekly offering. A separate lunch menu is not available on Sundays.

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.

Classical guitarist William Ghezzi presents a free concert at Portsmouth Public Library as part of Guitar Sundays. His career spans solo recitals and collaborations with orchestras, chamber groups, choruses, dance companies, and theater productions, with past appearances that include the Montpelier Chamber Orchestra, the Harry Partch Ensemble, and the Philadelphia Guitar Ensemble. He has commissioned many new works for solo guitar and chamber combinations and frequently performs in duo and ensemble formats. A graduate of Temple University, he studied with Peter Segal and Anna Kotsarenko, and later with Phillip de Fremery, Eliot Fisk, and Vladimir Mikulka. He teaches privately in West Lebanon, New Hampshire. His recordings and performance videos can be found on major audio and video platforms, and his latest release, Portfolio, is available for streaming. Guitar Sundays is a monthly, family friendly series that highlights classical guitarists from the Seacoast, the Greater Boston area, and from around the country. Concerts are free and open to the public. The program is co-presented by Portsmouth Music and Arts Center and Portsmouth Public Library, in association with the Boston Classical Guitar Society, and is curated by Mitch Shuldman.

Lighthouses and Legends offers an evening with views of the ocean, tasty food and beverages, engaging conversation, and acoustic music, all centered on celebrating York Public Library and its community. The gathering recognizes 25 years in the library’s current building and the many accomplishments achieved there. Special guest Micah Johnson, a former Major League Baseball player who became an artist and best-selling children’s book author, will be featured. Tickets are $75 per person and include two drink tickets. Complimentary admission is available to York Public Library Association Supporting Members at the $500 level or higher (Literature Lover, Library Advocate, or Lifelong Learner). Members at those levels can RSVP to Jane at 207-363-2818 ext. 1016 or jshoffman@yorkpubliclibrary.org, and anyone unsure of membership status can reach out for assistance.

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.

Monophonics brings a live set that marries heavy soul with the hazy glow of psychedelic rock, pairing finely crafted songs with an energetic stage presence. Their sound nods to the late 60s and early 70s while staying current, and their international tours have included sold-out shows across the United States, the UK and Europe in cities such as London, New York City, Athens, Los Angeles, Istanbul, San Francisco, Amsterdam and Paris. The performance highlights intimate songwriting and soulful musicianship, with special guest Taylor Williams joining the lineup. Hosted at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club, the experience includes full table service at your seat with no reservations required, along with a selection of wines and spirits available throughout the show.

Almost Monday brings the THANK GOD IT'S ALMOST MONDAY show to Portsmouth, NH in an all-ages, standing-room format. Tickets are $22 for members, $25 for general admission in advance, $30 for general admission on the day of the show, and $100 for the VIP package. The VIP option includes a general admission ticket, early entry, a meet and greet with the band, a commemorative laminate, early access to merchandise, one exclusive item, and a USB containing unreleased songs. Members at the Supporter level and above can access a presale using their member code at checkout. The American indie pop trio formed in 2015 in San Diego and features Dawson Daugherty, Luke Fabry, and Cole Clisby as its core. 3S Artspace receives support in part from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation and thanks lead sponsors AC Hotel Portsmouth, The Brook, The Fabulous Find, The Kane Company/Tidemark, Katzman Contemporary Projects, Raka, Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel, and Stirling Brandworks.

Curator Gerry Ward leads a guided exploration of Revolutionary Portsmouth at the John Paul Jones House, a historic residence connected to the American Revolution that may have sheltered notable figures of the era. The tour delves into how Portsmouth residents navigated the 1760s and 1770s, considering questions of democracy versus monarchy and the divide between Patriots and Loyalists. It also examines what the Revolution meant for local African Americans, Native Americans, and women, along with the realities of life on the home front. Attendees gain a sense of how the town looked during that period, with attention to its architecture and the material objects that shaped everyday life. This event is free and does not require registration.

Kick up your heels to a high-energy blend of roots and blues in one of the Northeast's iconic performance rooms. Expect dance-worthy grooves and a lively atmosphere. Advance tickets are available to reserve your spot.

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.

Heather Shaw brings her stand-up to The Music Hall Lounge, showcasing the sharp, playful style that has drawn a large audience online along with a striking likeness to Jim Carrey. Her credits include appearances on The Today Show and The Tamron Hall Show, and she has shared stages with Mark Normand, Eric Andre, and Fortune Feimster. She also hosts the weekly podcast Heather Shaw is Kidding, where she riffs on current headlines across pop culture, politics, and more.

Sneaky Link performs live at Thirsty Moose Taphouse - Portsmouth. The act takes the stage at the Moose for a live show.

Expansive hooks, travel-worn stories, and harmonies that seem to meet the horizon fuel Briscoe’s cinematic roots-rock as the duo takes the stage at The Press Room with Noah James. Their album Heat of July reflects songs written on the road and a broader artistic reach inspired by marriage, changing landscapes, and cross-country touring. Reuniting with Grammy-nominated producer Brad Cook, they expand their folk-rock sound with larger arrangements and tighter vocal blends, with studio contributions from members of Houndmouth, Hiss Golden Messenger, Bon Iver, Mipso, and Watchhouse that spotlight a vision shaped by open roads and growing up. Noah James, an 18-year-old country singer-songwriter from Baton Rouge, pairs raw emotion with vivid storytelling rooted in his Louisiana background. His early singles Set Free, Love Run Cold, and Same Old Things have resonated widely, earning comparisons to Zach Bryan and Wyatt Flores and building a following of more than 50 million TikTok views and over 300,000 followers, alongside a signing with Santa Anna/Sony Music. This all-ages show offers tickets at $20 in advance and $25 the day of.

At The Press Room, an evening of mesmerizing rhythm and adventurous improvisation unfolds as BASIC appears with Chris Brokaw. Fans of Tortoise and CAN will find a familiar spirit in the sound. This all-ages event is priced at 20 dollars in advance or 25 dollars on the day. BASIC features guitarist Chris Forsyth, drummer Mikel Patrick Avery, and bassist and guitarist Douglas McCombs. Using guitars, drum machine, sampler, custom-built electronics, and a range of percussion, the trio shapes pulse-driven pieces that blend art rock, trance-tinged jazz, collective improvisation, and subtle electronic textures. Avery interlaces programmed beats with hand percussion processed in real time, McCombs often turns to a Fender Bass VI to handle both low end and melodic figures, and Forsyth threads lyrical guitar lines through open, responsive interplay. Their new self-titled release on No Quarter highlights a groove-centered approach that balances individual expression with a shared focus. Chris Brokaw is a Boston-based guitarist, singer, songwriter, drummer, and composer with deep roots in independent music. His history includes foundational roles in Codeine and Come, a wide-ranging solo catalog from raw indie rock to acoustic and experimental work, collaborations with artists such as Thurston Moore, Evan Dando, Rhys Chatham, Steve Wynn, and The Lemonheads, and the solo album Ghost Ship.

Enjoy a cozy storytime with Barb at York Land Trust headquarters, featuring read-alouds, songs, and a simple activity. This program takes place off site from the library. Consider bringing sturdy walking boots if you plan to explore the trails afterward. Please register through the York Public Library website.

Returning by popular demand, this hands-on Touch a Truck event invites children and adults to get up close to the vehicles and heavy equipment that keep operations running behind the scenes. Attendees can look inside cabs, climb aboard select trucks, and talk with the York Woods Tree team to learn how the machinery is used. There will be interactive displays and lots of chances for photos, and admission is free for everyone. A Stuff-A-Truck drive will collect donations for Youth Full Maine to help fight child hunger in York County, and anyone who brings a donation will receive a free raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes. The lineup is also growing, with additional trucks and equipment welcomed at no cost to participate.

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.

This show brings together heartland-leaning indie rock, country-folk nostalgia, pedal steel warmth, and pop-forward hooks for anyone who has ever felt tied to a place. Dogwood Tales share the bill with Ezra Cohen & The Big City Band. From Harrisonburg, Virginia in the Shenandoah Valley, Dogwood Tales are led by longtime friends Kyle Grim and Ben Ryan on guitars and vocals, with Jake Golibart on drums and Danny Gibney on bass. Their forthcoming album, Every Star in Rockingham County, reflects on DIY community, rolling farmland, and small-town life, pairing vivid storytelling with close harmonies, pedal steel textures, jangling rhythms, and playful nods to video games and everyday Americana. Songs such as Mt. Jackson, Princess Peach, McMemories, and Angel Dreams point to lyrics that capture both intimate scenes and wider realities, and the sound sits where lo-fi country romanticism meets indie rock, nodding to songwriters in the lineage of Townes Van Zandt. The show is open to all ages, with tickets priced at $16 in advance and $18 on the day of the show.

At The Music Hall, Vitamin String Quartet teams up with vocal trio Girl Named Tom for The Crazy Ordinary World Tour, presenting crossover arrangements that blend pop and rock with layered harmonies. VSQ, known for transforming mainstream anthems into virtuosic string pieces and recently featured in season 4 of Netflix’s Bridgerton, collaborates with Girl Named Tom, winners of The Voice in 2021 and a notable presence in new American folk. The program offers inventive takes on beloved songs alongside contemporary favorites, with standout moments where both groups perform together in dynamic collaboration.

Celebrate Halloween with a family-friendly experience in Portsmouth’s oldest neighborhood, where trick-or-treating comes with a historical twist. Meet characters from America’s founding era and discover spooky moments spanning 250 years of American history. Cross paths with wandering pirates and a cryptic fortune-teller, listen to ghostly tales, and get creative by crafting giant spider webs. Dance to eerie music, play games for prizes, and, if you are feeling bold, knock on the witch’s door and ask for a treat. Tickets for members are $8.50 for ages 1 and up or free, with children under 1 free with a ticket. For nonmembers, admission is $17 for ages 1 and up, and children under 1 are free with a ticket.

The 32nd Annual GSO returns for 2026 with natural bodybuilding and additional competitions in the region. The event is an ANBF Natural Pro Qualifier, with more details to come.

Thirsty Moose Portsmouth NH hosts an event featuring Down By Ten. Down By Ten takes the spotlight at this venue.

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

A meetup in Portsmouth, New Hampshire brings together real estate investors, agents, and other industry professionals for conversation, learning, and networking. Hosted by Jakob Mikhitarian, the event focuses on practical insights and what is happening in today’s market within a casual, welcoming setting. Participants at every stage, from experienced investors to those just starting out and the service providers who support them, can connect with local and regional peers, ask questions, and build relationships centered on real estate investing.

The Blind Boys of Alabama bring soaring harmonies and spiritual energy to a tribute marking 50 years of Stevie Wonder’s Songs in the Key of Life. The program blends many of Stevie’s timeless hits with favorites from the Blind Boys’ own catalog, uniting gospel, soul, and Americana in a joyful salute to both musical legacies. With more than seven decades of inspiring audiences, the group continues its mission to share light and love through music. Their storied journey includes a 2003 Grammy for a release featuring their take on Higher Ground, later heard on screen in projects such as FX’s Fargo, and in 2007 Stevie Wonder honored singer Jimmy Carter with a Vision Award for Lifetime Achievement. Look for classics like Sir Duke, I Wish, and As alongside signature Blind Boys selections. Support is provided by McFarland Hyundia, Raka Creative, and 92.5 The River.

A Halloween-themed talk at York Public Library highlights two real-life investigations drawn from Rob’s books. At the Hunt Memorial Library in Nashua, New Hampshire, Rob and Monique Toosoon worked alongside other investigators and members of the public, reporting three spirits not tied to the building’s past. Their efforts brought to light a concealed romance, secret rendezvous, the presence of a teenager lost in an accident, and paintings that seemed to hold lingering energy. The second account turns to Linville Manor in Maryland, described as the state’s most haunted house, where Rob identified several spirits, including one believed to remain after a wrongful accusation. The presentation also touches on the manor’s history and recounts a range of unusual experiences reported by visitors. This program is free and open to the public.

Texas blues-rock artist Ally Venable brings a fiery set to Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club, showcasing the searing guitar chops and soulful vocals that have fueled her international rise. Recognized by Guitar World among standout young Les Paul players and honored with the Independent Blues Music Road Warrior award, she delivers gritty, melodic songs highlighted by tasteful solos noted by Guitar Player Magazine. She formed her band at 13, earned multiple Billboard Blues chart-toppers including Texas Honey and Heart of Fire, and has toured across the United States and Europe while sharing stages with Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Colin James. Collaborations with Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa further spotlight a live show known for high energy. At the club, guests can enjoy full table service from their seats with no reservations required, and food and drinks are available throughout the performance. The beverage program features an award-winning selection of wines and spirits to complement the music.

The Breakers bring a faithful Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers concert experience to the stage. Created to ensure fans of the late Tom Petty can continue to enjoy the live energy of his music, the band focuses on the sound and emotion at the core of these songs. They emphasize authentic musicianship over look-alike staging, capturing the unmistakable tone and precise execution that defined the Heartbreakers. Special thanks to Music Series Sponsors McFarland Hyundia, Raka Creative, and 92.5 The River.

Huntertones brings a horn-powered set to Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club, blending jazz, funk, pop, soul, hip hop, and R&B into a sound that is both locked in and adventurous. Known for dynamic performances on stage, in the studio, and online, the ensemble has been featured on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and has collaborated with Lawrence, Lake Street Dive, Louis Cato, Kurt Elling, Charlie Hunter, and Cory Wong. Expect tight grooves, inventive arrangements, and an energy that connects. Their release Transmission underscores their commitment to authentic musicianship.

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.

A multi-day celebration of scrapbooking, card making, and any craft you love takes place at Best Western Plus Portsmouth Hotel and Suites. Enjoy flexible, come-and-go participation with continuous access to a reserved workspace, complimentary Wi-Fi, plenty of electrical outlets, snacks and water, gifts, and lots of door prizes. The hotel is close to major shopping and many restaurants, and the Round-About Diner is connected to the property for convenient eat-in or takeout options. Expect theme nights, games, idea sharing, inspiration, and time with both old friends and new scrappy buddies. Registration options include a four-day package for $200 that features an exclusive Croptoberfest gift bag, extra full-weekend gifts, special and regular door prize tickets, and a dedicated table. A three-day package is $175 and includes the gift bag, regular door prize tickets, and a dedicated table. Attendance for weekend packages is limited to 50 to ensure ample space. If space remains, two-day passes are $100 and one-day passes are $50, each including a Croptoberfest gift bag. A $100 minimum deposit is required for weekender packages. Hotel accommodations and meals are not included and are not required to participate. Guests may stay at the hotel or commute, and roommates can share rooms to split costs, with one person making the reservation for the group. Coffee and water will be available at the event. All hotel rooms include refrigerators and microwaves, and rooms can be booked under the group name Bev’s Creative Memories.

Celebrate the season at a lively holiday marketplace in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, where skilled makers, delicious local flavours, and live music create a welcoming atmosphere. More than 150 vendors are set up across multiple buildings, with a new building added for 2026 to expand the selection. Browse handmade pottery, woodworking, glass art, textiles, home décor, jewelry, and more from Nova Scotian artisans and makers. Savor baked goods, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, beverages, and local wines, with food trucks on site and outdoor tents adding to the experience. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet. Only service dogs are permitted inside buildings, and cash is recommended for the best experience. For more information, email Sabcreationkey50@gmail.com.

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.

At Portsmouth Historical Society, John Herman shares an in-depth look at Wentworth Cheswill, a pioneering yet often overlooked figure in early American history. Cheswill worked as an archaeologist and served as a messenger rider, and he is noted as the first person of African descent elected to public office in the United States. His life traces a path from bondage to community leadership, shedding light on Black history in Revolutionary-era New England and the legacy he left behind. John Herman is an artist, educator, and performer whose practice spans visual art and improvisational theatre. His work has appeared on NH PBS’s Granite State Challenge as part of America250 programming, and he is the author of Wentworth Cheswill’s Ride: Chasing a Would-Be American Folk Hero. This talk is part of the Revolutionary Portsmouth Lecture Series, a collaboration between Strawbery Banke Museum and Portsmouth Historical Society that complements each organization’s Revolutionary Portsmouth exhibition. Lectures alternate between the two venues, so check the location when registering. Admission is $15 for SBM and PHS members and $20 for nonmembers. Buy three full price tickets and receive 25 percent off additional tickets with code REV250.

Grammy-winning vocalist Patti Austin brings a powerhouse performance of jazz, R&B, and pop to Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club. A multi-Grammy nominee whose career spans seven decades and includes 19 solo albums, she has performed on the Academy Awards and the Grammys and reached global number one with the James Ingram duets Baby Come To Me and How Do You Keep The Music Playing. Celebrated for her mastery of the Great American Songbook, she delivers a live show marked by soaring vocals, seasoned showmanship, and timeless soul. The club features a full-service restaurant, with food available for purchase at every performance, and dinner can be ordered directly from your ticketed seat without a separate reservation.

Celebrate a milestone as the Birchtree Center marks its 15th Benefit for Learning Auction at The Regatta Room in Eliot, Maine. Proceeds support student programming, therapeutic equipment, and other vital resources for Birchtree students, for local public schools, and throughout the community. The evening features live and silent auctions, raffles, complimentary appetizers and desserts, and a cash bar. Enjoy new entertainment from Matty G. of Matty and the Penders, and start the holiday gift hunt while making a meaningful difference for students and families. More details will be announced.

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.

Now in its sixth year, this tree festival at York Woods Tree & Products, LLC brings a festive mix of activities for all ages. Pick out fresh Maine-grown Christmas trees, explore a holiday market showcasing local artisans, and enjoy live music and other entertainment. Food trucks will be on site with plenty of options. Santa will be available for meet-and-greets, and families can capture the moment with seasonal photos. Admission is free for everyone. Vendors can reserve indoor booths measuring 8 by 5 feet for 150 dollars, with limited availability, or outdoor spaces sized 10 by 10 feet for 100 dollars. Applications are accepted through the organizer’s website under Upcoming Events, and vendor inquiries may be directed to Cassie Allen at cassie@yorkwoodstree.com.

Grammy Award winning drummer, composer, producer, and bandleader Nate Smith brings his dynamic artistry to Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club. From Norfolk, Virginia, he first drew wide attention at age 20 with a spotlight performance at New York’s Blue Note through Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead program. Early in his career he contributed as a songwriter and producer on Michael Jackson’s “Heaven Can Wait,” and in 2003 he joined the Dave Holland Group, touring internationally. Leading his own KINFOLK projects, he earned Grammy nominations for KINFOLK: Postcards from Everywhere, including recognition for instrumental composition and arrangement. His collaborations span Brittany Howard, Jon Batiste, Norah Jones, Childish Gambino, Pat Metheny, and Lalah Hathaway. His latest album, LIVE ACTION, is an analog recorded, producer driven project that gathers a broad circle of collaborators while emphasizing live performance and creative restraint. At the club, dinner service begins when the doors open, with full table service at your seat and the option to order food and drinks throughout the show. No reservations are needed, and the wine and spirits program has received repeated honors from Wine Spectator.

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.