At the start of this new year, it’s exciting to look back and see how Concord has grown during 2023—not only by adding new businesses to the downtown landscape and beyond, but as a destination for travelers. Many of the large events and festivals that hibernated during the COVID-19 pandemic have come back with greater force, attracting thousands of people to our vibrant city. We’re proud to see so many of our members participating in our city’s evolution as a festival and event destination, and are excited to share some of Concord’s biggest calendar items for 2024.
Concord’s Main Street is one of the most exciting locations to see festivals take place. With our pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, beautiful landscaping, sculptures, and vibrant small business community, the environment is perfect for a celebratory event, and is sure to encourage visitors to return for further exploration of the shopping and restaurant options in our downtown area. Concord’s signature Main Street event is Market Days, hosted by Intown Concord June 20-22. This year’s event celebrates the festival’s 50th anniversary, and is anticipated to attract 50,000 attendees. In addition, a new event— New Hampshire Book Festival—is coming to Concord October 4-5, and a re-envisioned Capital Arts Fest, an immersive music and arts festival is tentatively planned by our Creative Concord committee for October 18-19.
Many of our biggest events highlight important causes and the work of local or statewide nonprofits, reflecting our city’s community-minded nature. The State House Lawn is the starting location for many walks and races such as the Rock N’ Race to benefit Concord Hospital on May 8, Best Buddies Friendship Walk on May 11, 10th Annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event in support of the Thrive Survivor Support Center (formerly the Crisis Center of Central New Hampshire) on October 2, and much more.
Moving away from downtown, Everett Arena offers 18,000 square feet of exhibit space during the spring and summer months when ice skating season has ended. This building is operated by the City of Concord’s General Services Department, and hosts a wide variety of events and shows, including a brew festival, antique show, bridal show, gem and mineral show, and more. Mark your calendar for Castleberry Fair’s Capital City Craft Festival April 6-7 at the Everett Arena.
Concord is full of beautiful locations to host unique events. A community favorite is the Concord Multicultural Festival, happening on September 22 at Keach Park. The Black Ice Pond Hockey Tournament transforms White Park into multiple ice rinks January 26-28. And McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center will host a special countdown to the solar eclipse on April 8.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly event, music festival, or race to support a great cause, our city’s growing event schedule has something for everyone. The Chamber hosts a robust event calendar, where all members of the community can submit their offerings. Visit concordnhchamber.com/events to find the calendar, or scroll down to the “submit an event” info area to add your own. We review every item added to our calendar before it is posted, and you can reach out to our team at info@concordnhchamber.com or (603) 224-2508 if you have any questions. We’re excited to see this resouce on our website grow alongside Concord’s vibrant festival and event scene.
Incorporated in 1919, New Hampshire’s state capital chamber of commerce—the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce—develops economic opportunities, strengthens the business climate, and enhances quality of life in the Capital region. As largest chamber in the state, it is deeply invested in the local community and dedicated to shaping competitive economic development strategy, advocating for policies and projects that benefit the region, and promoting Concord as a culturally vibrant visitor destination. For more information, please visit concordnhchamber.com.