Falling into Autumn in New Hampshire
Whether you’ve lived in New Hampshire your entire life, are new to the region, or you’re thinking of moving here, fall is a great time to enjoy all New Hampshire has to offer. Here are some suggestions for getting the most out of the autumn season in northern New England this year.
Leaf Peeping
If there’s one thing New England is known for this time of year, it’s foliage. Thousands of people travel from far and wide for a glimpse of Mother Nature’s colorful display. New Hampshire offers some of the most spectacular views of the changing leaves starting at the end of September up north and lasting well into October.
Route 112, also known as the Kancamagus Highway, is a famous east-west drive between North Conway and Lincoln. Other well-known summertime destinations are just as popular in the fall for foliage, including Lake Winnipesaukee, Pinkham Notch in the White Mountains National Forest, and the Monadnock Region to the west. Keep your eyes peeled for moose!
Corn Mazes, Hayrides, Apples & Pumpkins
A visit to the apple orchard or pumpkin farm is a favorite tradition for many New Hampshire families. There are many places to go, close to home or further away, for an enjoyable day trip to explore a new town — and you can see the foliage along the way! Whichever farm or orchard you choose, check its website for a schedule of available pick-your-own varieties. Chances are, fresh cider and donuts are on the menu too. There may be additional family activities, such as hayrides, and if you’re up for a fun challenge, corn mazes.
Festivals & Fairs
We love a reason to celebrate what makes New England a great place to live. Why not flaunt our love for fall?
The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off and Regatta in Goffstown features the largest pumpkins you’ve ever seen and a weekend full of pumpkin-focused activities for the whole family to enjoy, including an actual pumpkin “boat” race on the river.
The Pumpkin Festival hosted in Laconia has a carnival feel with rides, food vendors, games, music and other activities. You’re also invited to bring a carved pumpkin to be included on the 34-foot tower of jack-o-lanterns that are lit up at night. Years ago, the festival secured the Guiness World Record title for most jack-o-lanterns and it could happen again!
Extreme Chunkin takes pumpkin competition to a whole new level as teams from across the country gather in Loudon for the chance to launch a pumpkin the furthest distance, and some will even hit targets. Catapults, cannons and other machines are fair game.
For real old fashioned New Hampshire tradition and fun, don’t miss the Deerfield Fair. Generations of Granite Staters and visitors have made “New Hampshire’s oldest family fair” an autumn must-do event for nearly 150 years. It runs the last weekend of September, Thursday, through Sunday.
Living in southern New Hampshire gives us so many opportunities to enjoy the autumn season. Want tips, resources, and featured homes sent straight to your inbox? Sign up for our email newsletter.