Events in Rochester today

Advance canopy skills with a full-day intermediate course focused on stronger landings, better decision-making under canopy, and confidence building. The training blends classroom learning with in-air practice, covering topics such as stalls with recovery, effective use of canopy inputs, and landing accuracy. Every landing is recorded for video review, followed by coach feedback to make targeted improvements. Completing the course typically involves five hop and pops, which are not included in the registration fee and are paid to the dropzone, so plan to have funds on account. Participants should use their usual skydiving gear. Rental equipment can be coordinated through the school, with AFF students receiving first priority. Attendees must be cleared for self supervision in freefall and should already have completed hop and pops from 3.5k and 5.5k. Water training for the B License can be arranged upon request. The registration fee covers the course instruction only and does not include lift tickets or packing.

Explore a welcoming farmers market in Portsmouth with an abundant selection of fresh, locally grown produce, locally raised meats, dairy, ready-to-eat foods, bakery items, and handmade crafts. Weekly highlights include visits from community partners and live music performed by Seacoast musicians. SNAP is accepted. Stop by the Market Info booth to receive SNAP tokens, and purchases are matched one to one through Granite State Market Match. Portable restrooms are located across the street at South Mill Pond Playground. Pets are not permitted, though service animals are welcome. A shaded picnic area across the street offers a comfortable spot to enjoy your market finds. Parking is available in the City Hall lower lot, with additional spaces across the street at South Mill Pond Playground, and accessible parking directly in front of City Hall. An interactive market map is available to see which vendors are attending each week.

This community litter collection walk starts on Pickering Road and heads out together, then returns to the same spot for a group photo with the gathered trash. Parking can be found at the Pickering Ponds Trail lot. Trash bags will be supplied, and there are a limited number of litter grabbers and safety vests to borrow. Bring your own gloves if you would like to wear them.

The craft fair returns this year at Union Congregational Church, where visitors can explore what participants have available.

Meet holistic practitioners over a cup of tea and explore short wellness sessions. Try product samples and pick up gift certificates. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. This gathering returns on the third Saturday of each month.

Dive into tabletop roleplaying with a focus on Dungeons and Dragons alongside other systems. Most weeks feature two or three Adventurers League tables plus an additional table dedicated to a non D&D game. There is no fee to participate. Registration is handled through the D&D Adventurers League Facebook group, and seating is first come, first served, with priority given to volunteer Game Masters. For questions, contact the organizer, Al, at 00alactus00@gmail.com.

Amid constant headlines of conflict and uncertainty, this open conversation asks whether today’s turbulence reflects deeper spiritual growing pains rather than only material problems. Drawing on insights from Bahá’í teachings, the discussion considers widening social divides, why familiar systems may struggle to heal them, and how upheaval can point to the need for a new path forward. All perspectives are welcome in a shared search for common truths and practical ways each person can help society grow more unified and resilient. Inspired by the Bahá’í view of one world and a single human family. Admission is free for everyone, and donations are not accepted. Tickets are used to indicate attendance.

Set aside a few unrushed hours to reconnect with nature through a nature journaling workshop. Over the course of three hours, you will practice seeing as both an artist and a naturalist, strengthen your powers of observation, and start a journaling habit. No drawing experience is required. Workshop materials are supplied, and you are welcome to bring your own sketchbook, ink pens, and pencils if you prefer. Plan to be outdoors with light walking and a few gentle inclines, and dress for the conditions. A blanket is provided for each participant to sit on while journaling. For added comfort, consider bringing a packable camp chair, water, snacks, and bug spray. Suitable for adults and teens 13 and older. Registration is free.

Experience colonial New England during a guided visit to the carefully restored Sweat-Morin Homestead, once home to Reverend Moses Sweat, the first Congregational minister in Sanford. Explore a classic floor plan that includes a keeping room, birthing room, and parlor, highlighted by original woodwork, historic paint colors, and striking 32-foot ceiling beams. The main house features three functioning fireplaces and furnishings suited to the period. The grounds include a carriage house, a family cemetery, wooded walking paths, and a barn rebuilt with original timber framing and distinctive reverse board and batten siding. The house and barn are accessible to people with disabilities. Admission is free and donations are welcome. Advance registration is not required, though it helps organizers plan for attendance.

Celebrating its 32nd year, the GSO features natural bodybuilding along with additional competitions. The event is an ANBF Natural Pro Qualifier. More details will be announced.

Sparked by a playful lyric twist from Rose Alley’s Kevin Roper during a rendition of Sugaree, where “jubilee” became “Lubilee,” this celebration has grown into a small fall music festival at Continuum Arts Collective. The music lineup features Rose Alley (JGB), Dance County Candy Boys, formerly known as Dead Herd and steeped in classic Grateful Dead influence, and Dis-N-Dat Band, bringing reggae to the Lu for the first time. Expect a full day of live songs, drinks, and food that will keep people dancing throughout the day. Net proceeds support Continuum Arts Collective, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides student artists and musicians in Maine and New Hampshire with materials, instruction, and experiences that help them thrive as creators.

A costumed community walk in Ladysmith raises support for the local food bank. Participants showcase their outfits on a friendly stroll that blends lighthearted fun with a community-focused purpose.

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.

Riley Archery Range in Farmington hosts a Halloween-themed event with two archery sessions for youth. The first is for ages 8 to 17, and participants are invited to wear costumes while aiming for treats. The second is for ages 10 and up, where attendees make their own zombie, then move to the range to shoot at monster targets and the zombie they created. Expect a festive mix of target practice and spooky fun.

At Sanford Performing Arts Center in Sanford, the NPC Maine Muscle Classic includes a live performance of the National Anthem. Carla Gemma is associated with the event by name.

At PCMS, participants can gather for a hands-on Halloween costume building session that celebrates creativity and fun. This gathering centers on robot costumes, aiming for a classic cardboard style with silver accents, while other approaches are welcome. Materials such as cardboard, paint, foil and dryer hose will be available to use. The group plans to bring these creations to the Portsmouth Halloween Parade. Open to all ages, with a waiver required for minors at the time of attendance.

Jimmy Dunn takes the stage for a one-night comedy show at the theater. This single-evening performance offers a lively dose of stand up and plenty of laughs. Tickets are on sale for this one-night show.

Enjoy live music at The Goat in Portsmouth.

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.

Celebrate the season at a community fall festival featuring food and beverage trucks, local vendors offering sweet treats, and live music from Mr. Austin Kennie of Hanson. Enjoy activities like face painting and other entertainment, with chances to win prizes for both children and adults. Concessions will be operated by Lebanon PTO volunteers.

Pumpkin Patch Minis offers brief photography sessions in a pumpkin patch at Pick Your own at McDougal Orchards in Springvale, Maine. The style is candid and relaxed rather than heavily posed, and kids are welcome to roam, laugh, explore, and pick pumpkins so the images capture the spirit of fall. Sessions are open to families, siblings, couples, little ones, and pets. A sliding scale pricing model starts at $20, multiple images are included, and spots are limited.

A weekly Yu-Gi-Oh gathering offers casual play and learn-to-play opportunities in a friendly setting. Participants bring their favorite decks and enjoy relaxed matches with fellow fans. Once a month an official tournament takes place, and casual play continues for anyone who prefers not to compete.

Sundays on the coast bring fresh ocean air and an easy pace, and Shearwater Restaurant at Stage Neck Inn pairs it with a weekly brunch framed by views of York Harbor. Expect a spread of sweet breakfast favorites and savory classics, complemented by handcrafted cocktails. Please note that there is no separate lunch menu on Sundays.

Explore alcohol ink in a welcoming, hands-on workshop suited to beginners and experienced makers. The session starts with a brief intro and demo, then moves from core techniques and open experimentation to more advanced approaches so you can discover a personal style. Practice creating soft, billowing effects on waterproof surfaces, including Yupo paper and ceramic tiles in a range of shapes and sizes. There is plenty of time to make vibrant pieces, and everyone leaves with a finished item such as a colorful coaster or small wall art. The workshop lasts about two hours. Hosted at Seacoast ArtSpot in Portsmouth, NH. Cost is $45.

The Roundup spotlights Nathan Hill from South Berwick, Maine, a singer, songwriter, and guitarist performing a blend of cover songs and original pieces with a 90s rock edge at Over the Moon Farmstead. His set channels the era’s raw energy while showcasing his own material alongside familiar favorites.

Learn the One Piece Trading Card Game in a welcoming setting focused on teaching and casual play. Starter decks and packs can be purchased on site, and hands-on instruction is provided to help players get comfortable with the rules. A Bandai TCG+ account is recommended but not required, and assistance is available to create one if needed. Tournaments are planned for the future.

Add color to spooky season with a relaxed glass art session where participants create a custom Halloween suncatcher. Select a design outline from a themed collection in advance, then, upon arrival, fill the piece with vibrant crushed glass. Finish by sealing the design with clear UV resin and curing it under a light so it is ready to display right away. Participants leave with a handcrafted, light-catching Halloween decoration to take home. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Cost is $45 per person. No prior crafting experience is required.

Clifford Cameron's Vinyl Quartet explores music largely rooted in the 1960s and 70s, reshaped through a modern, improvisation-forward lens. With an openness to any genre, the program shifts and evolves as it goes, and no two renditions are the same. Songs associated with The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Neil Young, and Bob Marley serve as both inspiration and foundation, offered in a mellow, contemporary atmosphere. The ensemble features Emma Jane Page on vocals, Clifford Cameron at the piano, Nicholas Thompson Brown on bass, and Alex Ouellette on drums.

Clipper Tavern hosts karaoke with KJ-Dave-O, giving singers a chance to take the stage for favorite tunes. The kitchen is open and the bar is serving drinks, so there is plenty to enjoy between performances. Sunday Night Happy Hour is also featured during the festivities.

Practice spoken French over coffee through conversations and activities. The emphasis is on speaking and interaction in French.

Settle in for a session of Dungeons & Dragons at Diversions, where newcomers and experienced players alike can jump into the ongoing adventure. Seating is typically divided into a pre-teen kids table and an adult table. The adult table requires advance sign-up, which is free, with limited space and a confirmed reservation securing a seat for the session. The kids table is walk-in only on a first-come, first-served basis, and seating is limited. These games are organized by private groups that use the Diversions space rather than being coordinated by store staff, and they are open to welcoming new players. Nearby parking includes a free lot within a short walk, along with additional paid options in garages and lots.

This relaxed Magic: The Gathering Commander gathering at Jetpack emphasizes social, low-pressure EDH games. Everyone from newcomers to veterans is welcome. Casual play is central to the experience and is always encouraged, even when other Commander events are happening. The focus stays on friendly tables, conversation, and having fun together.

Now listed on the official Digimon tournament platform, this Digimon TCG event offers organized play with support from Bandai. Sign-ups are handled on site, so arriving a little early makes check-in easy. A $5 registration goes directly into the prize pool for tournament play, while weekly sessions are free and include Bandai prize support.

Real estate investors, agents, and industry professionals come together in Portsmouth, New Hampshire for a meetup centered on meaningful connections and practical conversation. Hosted by Jakob Mikhitarian, the gathering welcomes experienced investors, newcomers, and service providers who support investment activity. Expect a relaxed, welcoming setting to exchange real world insights, stay current with what is happening in the market, and build relationships with local and regional peers. Bring questions, share experiences, and grow your network through open dialogue about real estate investing.

Enjoy a friendly mahjong practice session focused on building skills and connecting with fellow players. This gathering is for those who have taken a class or already play the game. It is not a beginner lesson, and newcomers are encouraged to take a class first. Space is limited, and a $5 fee reserves your seat. Instructor Paula will be available to answer questions and provide guidance during play.

A weekly board game night welcomes players who enjoy light, medium, or heavy strategy games. Participants may bring their own favorites or try a selection of in-store demos, and both groups and solo players are welcome. Outside food is permitted. Attendees are asked to be respectful of other people’s games and belongings and to help keep the play space clean. Alcohol is not allowed. Parking options nearby include the Masonic Temple Lot at Middle Street and Miller Street with free parking about a five minute walk away. The Foundry Garage offers parking for about $1 per hour and is roughly a six minute walk. The Worth Lot directly behind the store costs $2 per hour for the first three hours, then $5 per hour for each additional hour.

Shearwater Restaurant at Stage Neck Inn hosts Taco Tuesday by the water with a rotating lineup of $5 taco specials paired with tequila based cocktail features. Harbor views and a calm coastal setting create an easygoing backdrop for savoring bright, summertime flavors, whether unwinding after the beach or settling in for a laid back dinner in York Harbor.

Begin your fiber arts journey in a four-week beginner crochet class led by instructor Marcia Hansen. Designed for teens and adults, with preteens also welcome, the class covers how to comfortably hold the hook and yarn, practice core stitches like the chain and single crochet, recognize common abbreviations, and follow an easy-to-read pattern while creating a first handmade project. Personalized guidance helps each student build skills and confidence at a comfortable pace. Please bring a size F or G crochet hook and one skein of Red Heart 100 percent acrylic yarn in a light or variegated color for visibility. This yarn is easy to find at Walmart.

Explore crystals and wire art in a guided crystal tree crafting session led by All Hearts Everything at PO3’s Crystal Boutique LLC. Designed for anyone curious about working with crystals or seeking a meaningful hands-on project, this workshop centers on creating your own crystal tree while learning approachable wire techniques. Enrollment is limited to 8 participants and has sold out in the past. The cost is $50 per person, and registration is available.

Challenge your knowledge at a trivia night that takes place at Spaulding Steak & Ale. Enjoy food and drinks while competing for prizes. To reserve a table, contact the restaurant directly.

An open mic poetry gathering centered on sensuality and the language of the body. The focus is on pieces that explore physical experience, letting the body speak through verse. Hosted by @kelseywiles and @cari.lizabeth, this edition carries the theme Under the Equinox and features readings by McKendy Fils-Aime and Alex Serino.

In partnership with White Pine Programs, this monthly walk at Highland Farm Preserve focuses on learning to identify birds, recognize birdsong, and explore the habitats they favor. It is held on the third Wednesday each month, is family friendly, and is well suited to beginner birders. The route is easy to moderate, with mostly flat trails and a few short inclines. This free program is open to the public, and registration is required. Recent eBird checklists are available for the preserve for those who want to see what has been spotted lately. New in 2026, from April through December, participants can receive $1 off any drink at Nectar Cafe at Bell Farm Shops before or after the walk by mentioning they are on their way to or have just attended Bird Walk Wednesday at Highland Farm Preserve with York Land Trust and White Pine Programs. A birding backpack with bird books, educational materials, and binoculars can be borrowed from York Public Library and brought along.

Spend a welcoming morning connecting through play, simple crafts, and stories, with a light snack included. This ongoing group meets at The Family Center at Families First in Portsmouth.

An adoption event at PetSmart in Epping, NH features dogs looking for new homes. Visitors can meet adoptable dogs and see if one might be the right match for their family.

A bi-monthly stitch night is planned. RSVP is required. Due to return travel from Rhinebeck, the gathering may be moved, so please check the event page for any updates, cancellations, or changes. Questions are welcome.

Edgar Allan Poe’s Asylum turns Clay Hill Farm Restaurant into a candlelit Victorian manor where elegant dining meets unsettling psychological theater. Inspired by The System of Doctor Tarr and Professor Fether and guided by the charming yet eccentric Monsieur Maillard, the evening unfolds over multiple courses as Poe’s words are performed right at the table between dishes. The program traces a chilling path from Berenice through The Tell-Tale Heart to The Raven as dessert arrives, building an atmosphere of creeping dread and lyrical melancholy. Seasonal touches, house specialties, and an ominous estate staff heighten the immersion, creating a close-up encounter with classic gothic horror designed for an intimate setting. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Tickets are $30 per person, plus the cost of food and beverages, with a $35 per person food and beverage minimum. Victorian Gothic attire is welcome but optional. Due to dark and grisly themes, this experience is not recommended for young viewers and is rated PG-13. Performances often sell out quickly.

Enjoy a relaxed evening of open play centered on Riftbound, the League of Legends trading card game. Bring a constructed deck to face other players in casual matches. Participation is free, and attendees receive a Nexus Night promo pack.

This weekly event celebrates One Piece and focuses on building a growing community. Enjoy a friendly setting centered on shared interest and connection.

Head to Bowl-O-Rama in Portsmouth, NH for a laid-back night of lanes and comfort food. For $25 per person, the deal covers 1.5 hours of all-you-can-bowl, shoe rental, and your choice of a small pizza with two toppings or a classic hamburger. Round up friends for some lighthearted competition and a bite between frames.

Take on other players in open Commander play as part of an ongoing series. This series runs every Wednesday.

Thursdays at Stage Neck Inn spotlight the tastes of the Maine coast with an all day dining special set beside the waterfront in York Harbor. Lunch and dinner feature a $35 pairing of a classic lobster roll with a generous bowl of seafood chowder, bringing two coastal favorites together in one satisfying meal. $10 drink specials present a rotating selection of refreshing cocktails, wine, and beer that complement the menu. It suits a leisurely lunch, an after work bite, or a relaxed evening by the ocean while enjoying Maine flavors at a strong value.

The game room hosts a Pokémon League centered on the Trading Card Game, where participants can enjoy casual matches, trade cards, or enter paid tournaments. Those who stay through the end receive a free Play Pokemon prize pack, while supplies last. A Standard Format tournament is available with an entry fee equal to the price of a single Pokémon pack. All entry fees go directly into a prize pool that is awarded as store credit based on final standings. Please bring a Standard Format deck. Players ages 8 through adult are welcome. Attendees under 16 must remain with a parent or guardian for the duration. Minors may trade only with in-person parental permission, and staff can help review trades for fairness. Jetpack Megastore in-store events are designed to build community and encourage gameplay. Pricing is often below market value, may change at any time, and requires participation in the event. Participants who sign up and then drop will be disqualified from future events. Leaving before the event concludes makes attendees ineligible for bonuses, promos, prizes, or additional product. These policies are strictly enforced to ensure fair access, since taking a spot can prevent someone else from playing.

John Moro, RPh, MBA, a pharmacist and the owner of The Herbal Path, presents a talk in Portsmouth, NH on the ways stress can interfere with sleep, affect mood, and influence overall health. The session shares practical methods to bring balance back into daily life. This event is free, and capacity is limited.

Experience a special edition of Beer for History focused on wine, featuring four historic selections from the Revolutionary era with Justin X. M. Corriss, a sommelier with Vino e Vivo. Admission is $25, and tickets are available in advance or at the door.