It’s a weekend of celebration on the Seacoast — much of it centered around Portsmouth’s 400th anniversary! Here are just a few of the highlights.
Art ‘Round Town in Portsmouth
Galleries scattered around downtown Portsmouth will introduce new exhibitions during the monthly Art ‘Round Town gallery walk on Friday from 5-8 p.m. Among the highlights is an opening reception for “Drifting By” at the Kennedy Gallery and Custom Framing, featuring original acrylic paintings by Liz Prescott. Learn more here.
Concerts at The Word Barn Meadow
Nothing says summer like music in the Meadow. The Word Barn in Exeter brings roots duo Robinson & Rohe to its outdoor stage with guest Rachel Sumner on Friday from 7-9 p.m. ($20). On Saturday from 7-9 p.m., 2021 FreshGrass Band winner Never Come Down joins Boston-based string band Grain Thief ($20). Learn more here.
Art opening at Foundation Art Space
Foundation Art Space in Exeter opens an exhibit titled “Appropriation: The Art of Theft,” featuring pieces by Bruce Jones, Marissa Vitolo, and Erin Marie, with a reception on Friday from 7-9:30 p.m. In addition to the artwork, there will be live music from The Meter Maids and DJ sets from SeanJumps. Tickets are $20. Learn more here.
Live music at The Dance Hall
Maine-based family band The Northern Grey will play original folk music and contemporary covers at The Dance Hall in Kittery on Friday from 7:30-9 p.m. ($17-$22). Local R&B and soul outfit Crown Jules follows on Saturday from 7:30-9 p.m., playing danceable classics of Motown, Stax, and Muscle Shoals ($17-$22). Learn more here.
Johnny Hoy at The Stone Church
Based in Martha’s Vineyard, Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish have been performing across the region and around the world for over three decades. The quartet, featuring an all-star lineup on guitar, piano, drums, and vocals, will perform live at The Stone Church in Newmarket on Friday from 8-11 p.m. Tickets are $20. Learn more here.
Portsmouth NH 400 Grand Parade
The first signature event in Portsmouth’s year-long 400th anniversary celebration takes place on Saturday, starting at 11 a.m. The Portsmouth NH 400 Grand Parade will bring marching bands, soldiers, VIPs, floats, dancers, and… submarines? (yes, submarines) down Islington Street and through the downtown. Learn more here.
Piscataqua Riverfest at Strawbery Banke
The Gundalow Company will hold its annual Piscataqua Riverfest celebration at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth on Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. There will be a traditional boat show, maritime demonstrations, live entertainment, food and beverages, activities, an artisan craft show, and more. Learn more here.
Great New England Craft & Artisan Show
About 100 exhibitors will offer their wares at the Great New England Craft & Artisan Show, including soaps, candles, metal art, wood ornaments, paintings, glass art, wood décor, leather goods, bowls, and more. It’s held in conjunction with the Piscataqua Riverfest at Strawbery Banke on Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Learn more here.
WOKQ Chowder Festival at Prescott Park
The 2023 Prescott Park Arts Festival officially gets underway with the 36th WOKQ Chowder Festival on Saturday from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be live music, lawn games, kids’ activities, ice cream, and, of course, loads of delectable chowder served by local restaurants at Prescott Park in Portsmouth. Tickets are $20. Learn more here.
Ongoing Transmission at WSCA
In 2013, the world lost Jason Molina, the brilliant frontman of Songs: Ohia and Magnolia Electric Co. To mark the 10-year anniversary of his death, WSCA Portsmouth Community Radio will host a tribute concert featuring an incredible local lineup on the Button Factory Stage on Sunday from 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $12. Learn more here.
See the full calendar for more local events.