Don’t miss out on all the holiday merriment this weekend! From the Annual Manchester Holiday Parade on Elm, to the Liberty House Christmas Tree Jubilee Fundraiser, to Merrymaking on West Merrimack St, there are countless ways to paint the town red… and green! So don’t be a Grinch. Make the season bright!
Seeking out a more musical way to celebrate the season? Check out our Weekly Entertainment report for live music and lively arts in and around Southern NH.
Multi-day Events:
Dec. 6-7
Krampusfest by Brighton Bazaar & Notch Brewing, The Charles River Speedway, Boston, MA – In German folklore, Santa rewards the nice, while his associate Krampus punishes the naughty. On Dec. 6 & 7, Krampusfest celebrates this eclectic tradition at Boston’s most authentic German brewery, featuring Boston’s first & only dark Holiday market! Sat., Dec. 6 from 3 – 9pm: Krampusnacht w/ Krampus. Krampuslauf courtyard parade & costume contest on stage w/ prizes. Details TBA. Sun., Dec. 7 from 11 am – 5 pm: Krampustag w/ Goat Girl of Salem. Both days: 60+ vendors will pop up at The Charles River Speedway in Boston (525 Western Ave 02135) to sell wicked weird & witchy wares! More info here.
Grave Tidings Haunted Holiday Market, Old Town Hall, Downtown Salem, MA – Grave Tidings is a spooky holiday shopping experience! Join us for a frightfully festive time on Dec. 6 & 7 at the historic Old Town Hall in the heart of Downtown Salem. Hosted by Witch City Wicks, this event features a carefully curated selection of the best dark aesthetic, gothic, witchy-themed artists and creators for one of a kind holiday gifts. General admission market hours: 1 – 5pm both days, $5 cash only at the door (proceeds will be donated to The Salem Pantry). More info here.
Dec. 4
2025 Christmas Tree Jubilee Fundraiser, Liberty House, Manchester, NH – We invite local businesses, community groups, families, and friends of Liberty House to join us in spreading holiday cheer at our Christmas Tree Jubilee! This festive fundraiser will showcase beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths — each uniquely designed to reflect the creativity, holiday spirit, and generosity of our community. Proceeds will directly support Liberty House’s mission to help local veterans. The fundraiser kicks off on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 10 am. More info here.
Daytime DIY: Suncatchers, Nashua Public Library, Nashua, NH – As we edge towards the darkest days of the year, let’s catch as much light as possible by making a plexiglass suncatcher. Choose from a variety of designs or design your own. Open to adults age 18+. This event will take place on Thursday, Dec. 4 from 11 am – 12:30 pm. More info here.
Rivier University Christmas Tree Lighting, Rivier University, Madeleine Hall, Nashua, NH – Join us on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 6 pm to celebrate the spirit of the season at Rivier University as we light our University Christmas tree! Bring family and friends for this festive event as we kick off the Christmas season. Children can take home a holiday-themed stuff-a-bear and enjoy a visit with Santa Claus starting at 5:30 pm. Register to attend here.
The Great Cribbage Tournament, Great North Aleworks, Manchester, NH – Our next Cribbage Tournament is this Thursday, Dec. 4 from 6:30 pm – 9 pm. The tournament for December will be doubles with prizes for winners of the main bracket & second chance bracket. If we don’t have enough players for the two brackets, we’ll play some round-robin games & a prize will be awarded to the team with the most points. Pre-register by sending an email to info@greatnorthaleworks.com or just show up on the day of the tourney. Please check in by 6:15 pm so we can prepare the bracket. More info here.
MOM’S NIGHT OUT! A BAD MOMS CHRISTMAS!, Chunky’s Cinema Pub, Manchester, NH – MOMS, you’ve earned this! Put down the gift lists and pick up a cocktail — it’s MOM’S NIGHT OUT at Chunky’s! We’re showing A Bad Moms Christmas and things are about to get naughty list level fun. This Thursday, Dec. 4 at 8 pm (doors open 45 mins before). Bar is open, so come early! Laugh loud. Drink up. Be bad (just for the night). CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS LIKE A MOTHER! Get tickets here.
Dec. 5
Trash-to-Art, UNH, Memorial Union Building, Manchester, NH – Join the Sustainability Institute Zero Waste Interns to make upcycled winter-themed decorations (or thoughtful handmade gifts!) for the holiday season! We’ll reuse materials from campus academic buildings, helping to reduce waste on campus. This event will take place on Friday, Dec. 5 from 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm in the Memorial Union Building, Room 334/336. More info here.
Winterfest 2025, Backyard Brewery & Kitchen, Manchester, NH – For the past 6 years, we’ve brought together over 20 of the best brewers from the Manchester area—and the beer lovers who adore them—for a one-night-only celebration of local craft beer under the stars. This year, we’re back and bigger than ever. Bundle up and join us for an unforgettable night of bold brews, good food, fire pits, and festive fun. Whether you’re into porters, sours, lagers, or something experimental, there’s a pour waiting for you. This event will take place on Friday, Dec. 5 from 5 pm – 8 pm. Get tickets here.
Pinkerton Academy ASL Club Bowling Night, Yankee Lanes, Manchester, NH – Pinkerton Academy ASL Club is hosting bowling night at Yankee Lanes!!! RSVP so we can reserve lanes for this event! Cost is $6.50 per game and $4.50 for shoe rentals! Come on down and mingle in ASL! This event will take place on Friday, Dec. 5 from 6 pm – 9 pm.
Two Moons After Dark: Krampusnacht, Two Moons Café, Manchester, NH – Celebrate the naughty, wicked, and kooky spirits of the holidays. Krampus, the Grinch, and all the things on the other side of the sugar plum forest. This drag show, happening at Two Moons Café will be sure to have you gagged for the holiday season. This event will take place on Friday, Dec. 5 starting at 7 pm. Get tickets here.
Dec. 6
Nashua 10th Annual Holiday Fair, Lafayette Club, Nashua, NH – Come join us at the The Lafayette Club – 34 High Street – Nashua, NH, for a festive day of shopping food and fun. Our holiday fair features a variety of vendors offering unique gifts crafts and delicious treats. Get into the holiday spirit with free pictures with Santa and supporting local small businesses! This event will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 am – 4 pm. Free admission. Register here.
BASC Santa Claus Shuffle, Veterans Park, Manchester, NH – Walk, jog or run and enjoy samples from Santa’s 4 major food groups at 4 sweet stops along the route down Elm Street! The race will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6 before the annual Christmas parade. RACE DAY SCHEDULE: 2:30pm: Lil’ Elf Runs (100 yards); 3 pm: BASC Santa Shuffle Race (3 miles); 4 pm: Manchester City Christmas Parade. Register here.
City of Manchester Holiday Parade, Elm St, Manchester, NH – The annual Manchester holiday parade will take place this Saturday, Dec. 6 starting at 4 pm. This year’s theme is Candy Cane Lane. The parade will start on Bridge Street, travel down Elm Street, and conclude at Veterans Park. There will be a tree lighting ceremony at Stanton Plaza immediately after the parade ends.
51st Annual Holly Day Fair, Bishop Guertin High School, Nashua, NH – Please join us for the 51st Annual Holly Day Fair on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 8 am – 2 pm. The fair takes place at Bishop Guertin High School in the Roedel Fieldhouse. This is one event you won’t want to miss! At the fair enjoy the following: Over 80 craft vendors; Homemade baked goods; Basket raffles; A penny table, and so much more! Also, please consider donating a pre-made gift basket. Click here for a list of possible ideas!
2025 Holiday Open House, Millyard Museum, Manchester, NH – Join us on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10 am – 4 pm. Enjoy time spent with your neighbors, family and friends on this festive day of fun family activities and discounted shopping at the Millyard Museum! Members of the Manchester Historic Association receive an extra 10% discount this day only (at least 20% off all shop items). Enjoy children’s holiday crafts, cookies and cider, and old-fashioned board games. Visit with Santa Claus from noon to 1 pm! At 2 pm, attend a book signing by local author and historian Robert B. Perreault. More info here.
Pop-Up Event, M&C Clothing and Gifts, Manchester, NH – Join us at our pop-up shop this Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 am – 4 pm. Dainty Links Permanent Jewelry’s custom-fit, welded jewelry is made to shine with you every day — no clasps, no fuss, just forever sparkle. RSVP now to secure your spot to make a special piece. Email Irene at ialton@mothersays.com to save your seat. Walk-ins welcome, but prefer RSVP for planning. Let’s create unforgettable, lasting memories, one permanent bracelet at a time. Your piece, your story — permanently linked.
2nd Annual Spyglass Holiday Makers Market, Spyglass Brewing Co, Nashua, NH – Join us on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11:30 am – 5 pm for a full day of holiday cheer, local creativity, and gift-giving magic! Our taproom will transform into a festive marketplace featuring 15+ talented makers, artisans, and small businesses—perfect for checking off your holiday list. Come sip, shop, and support local. Bring your friends, bring your family, and let’s kick off the season together at Spyglass Brewing Co. More info here.
Light Up The Village, Hooksett NH – Join us for the fourth annual Light Up The Village (LUTV) event on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 4 pm – 8 pm! Enjoy a day of joy, wonder, and holiday magic as we combine Photos with Santa, Storytime and much more one big community celebration.
Warren Miller Nashua 2025, Nashua High School South, Nashua, NH – For the 12th year, The Nashua Lions Club is hosting Warren Miller. We are fortunate to have found a new partner with the Nashua High School Ski team, and together we are happy to host this year’s new Warren Miller movie. The goody bag will be in full force, chock full of “stuff” AND …. the FREE Midweek lift ticket has also returned with one for Sugarbush worth over $125!!! We will have plenty of door prizes, our fantastic silent auction and the 50/50. The Nashua Lions Club appreciates your support throughout the years, and we are looking forward to hosting the event in our new home at Nashua High School South and to share the proceeds with the Nashua Ski team. Hope to see you on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 7 pm – 9:30 pm! Get tickets here.
Pop Cultured Holiday Anime Fest, 35 Warren St, Lowell, MA – Our first holiday anime event is happening! Join us on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 am to 5 pm. Holiday Anime Fest will be held in UTEC’s stunning 1839 church, the world’s oldest LEED Platinum certified green building, located at 35 Warren Street in Lowell, MA. More info here.
Not Your Dad’s Market Presents: The Vintage Holiday Market, Hive Public Market, Lowell, MA – Not Your Dad’s Market hosts their first Vintage Market at Hive Public Market on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 12 pm – 5 pm. Vendors from near and far offering genuine vintage clothing, sustainable wares, and upcycled pieces. Come through!
Indoor Farmers’ Market, Milford Town Hall Auditorium, Milford, NH – We have a great indoor market lined up this year with 23+ vendors and lots of variety. We aim to provide you with a diverse selection of fresh and locally made/grown products. The next market will day place on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10 am – 1 pm. More info here.
Church Street Christmas Market, 9 & 10 Church St, Deerfield, NH – Get ready for an exciting evening at the Church Street Christmas Market on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 4 – 7 pm! Jump into the festive spirit with over 30 amazing local farmers and artisans, mouthwatering food trucks lively entertainment, and a cozy bonfire to gather around. More info here.
Dec. 7
3rd Annual Merrymaking On West Merrimack, West Merrimack St, Manchester, NH – Merrymaking on West Merrimack is a free holiday festival celebrating the historic Amoskeag Millyard Housing district. With activities featuring live entertainment, food & drinks, and local craft vendors, it is a perfect event for the whole family! Join us at Merrymaking and celebrate the holiday season while meeting new friends in downtown Manchester. This free event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 11 am – 3 pm between Elm St and Canal St on West Merrimack Street. More info here.
Christmas in the Village: Shop & Sip, Pembroke City Limits, Pembroke, NH – This Sunday, Dec. 7 from 11:30 am – 2 pm, come get some of your holiday shopping in and support local vendors! We have a variety of items from vendors including: Maisy Love; J&J Designs; Young Soul Candle Making; DeCarli Woodworks.
Gingerbread Marketplace, Kimball Jenkins Estate, Concord, NH – Come and celebrate the sweeter things in life! In partnership with Kimball Jenkins’ Holidays at the Estate, featuring local artists and makers offering sweet treats and gifts for your holiday shopping. Make sure to visit the Home Sweet Home Gingerbread Exhibition in our historic Mansion and The Artisan’s Nook before or after visiting the marketplace! Admission is FREE! This event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 12 pm – 6 pm. More info here.
Holiday Makers Market, Great North Aleworks, Manchester, NH – Join us Sunday, Dec. 7 from 1 pm – 5 pm for our Holiday Makers Market! Grab a beverage, browse local artisans, and check off that to-do list. Shop small, support local!
33rd Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting, Abbie Griffin Park, Merrimack, NH – Join us on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 3 pm – 4:30 pm as we kick off the official holiday season with one of Merrimack’s most beloved traditions — the 33rd Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting Celebration! This year’s theme is “Home Alone Hijinks,” promising floats with festive creativity, laughter, and plenty of holiday spirit. Expect mischievous moments, clever costumes, and “Kevin-worthy” holiday magic as the community comes together to celebrate! More info here.
Planning Ahead?
Dec. 11: Kimball Jenkins 1st Annual Jingle and Mingle Fundraiser, Concord, NH
Dec 13: A Very Merry Bookmas: a holiday romance book faire, Manchester, NH
Dec. 20: The Derryfield takes over Ugly Sweater Party, Manchester, NH
Dec 31: Once Upon a Midnight: NYE at 815, Manchester, NH
Jan. 22: 20th Annual New England Winter Wine Spectacular, Manchester, NH
Jan. 28: Women’s Business League Nashua – Mix and Mingle, Nashua, NH
March 5: Granite Game Summit Spring 2026, Nashua, NH