Best of NH 2026 Art, Culture & People

When you're looking for a funky arts experience or a great morning radio show, where do you go? To this Best of NH winners list, of course!

4 hours ago

New Hampshire Magazine Staff,

Editor’s Picks

Dynamic Community Hub

Photo by Randy Duchaine / Alamy Stock

The capital city’s hottest new community hub is the multifaceted Arts Alley — a venue, a restaurant, a place to unwind or be creative — all close to downtown shops and eateries. There are even unconventional craft classes and workshops like glass etching, doormat painting and hat burning. What is hat burning? Now’s your chance to find out. After finishing your masterpiece, gather with friends on Arts Alley’s rooftop for a nightcap or take in a live concert set during First Friday, when downtown Concord is alive with food trucks, family events and special shopping opportunities. Peep its packed calendar of events for something that’s right up your alley. artsalleyconcordnh.com

Handcrafted Demonstrations

The nonprofit, community-based Craftworkers’ Guild in Bedford, celebrating its 100th year, has a lot to show for itself: After all, it’s the oldest crafters organization in New Hampshire. The guild is proudly home to all things craft and fine arts. Their goal is simple — to inspire a love of craft-making in others. Whether a member or a guest, everyone is welcome. If you’re unsure where your next creative path will take you, attend one of their fairs or browse their seasonal arts and craft shops at the Oliver Kendall House in Bedford that’s open four times a year. sites.google.com/view/the-craftworkers-guild

Wildlife Events

Nature and birding enthusiasts seeking top-notch wildlife events need look no further than NH Audubon in Concord. All things wildlife, from watercolor exhibits that highlight our backyard critters, to outdoor hands-on activities, are offered. If a specific event doesn’t strike your fancy, choose from dozens of educational or community programs, summer camps or nature talks. NH Audubon is all about helping people connect with nature, so browse the website to find your interests or simply volunteer to share your love of the wild with others. From bird surveys to plant sales, NH Audubon’s list of events will keep you busy all year long. nhaudubon.org

All-Season Entertainment

The typical dinner-and-a-movie night out gets a stylish upgrade at The Derryfield Restaurant in Manchester. Its banquet facility and ballroom can serve as an elevated locale for your wedding, social event, reunion, baby shower or business networking meeting. Whatever you have in mind for your next big gathering, The Derryfield can oblige. Their menu offers a wide variety of tastes, from Italian and American dishes to comfort food, appetizers, salads and sandwiches. Their live music events are not to be missed, and every week, the restaurant hosts trivia nights. thederryfield.com

Traditional Skills Revival

Sanborn Mills Farm Fiber Arts Friday Fiber Arts On 4th 13

Courtesy Photo

Fiber arts have come a long way, and Loudon’s Sanborn Mills Farm is leading this crafting rebirth with a surprisingly diverse and comprehensive list of activities and workshops. Learn about the history of wool rug braiding, then make round trivets, a chair pad or a small rug. Weave on a loom, hook a rug or make an indigo vat. Make a willow backpack or try your hand at mixed media embroidery, metalsmithing, basketry and woodworking classes. Let your fingers do the weaving while you enjoy some “me” time, or just mend that jacket you love. sanbornmills.org

Clay Curious Classes

Are you “clay curious”? Lots of us are. Thankfully, there’s a place in Gorham where you can pick up some pottery skills or take a class. The Groggy Rabbit in Gorham has clays, glazes and tools available in their supplies shop. Take your pick of crafting opportunities, whether it’s a single workshop, classes that span several weeks or private lessons. Wheel- and hand-building classes are available for anyone who wants to learn, whether you’re a member or not. Those at the Groggy Rabbit say working with clay can set your mind at ease and give you a little slice of peace and quiet amid a hectic, wired world. thegroggyrabbit.studio

One-Stop Shop

As the state’s first and largest, the nonprofit mega MakeIt Labs in Nashua is a NH trendsetter, offering resources for laser-cutting, welding and more. Rub elbows with other artists, hobbyists and students like you who are taking classes, workshops and training sessions. Learn woodshop, wheel-throwing skills, metal lathing, rock-polishing, ceramics — or make a baguette for snacking later on. Get inspired, see your own work come alive, try a new craft, or teach your own class — you can do it all here. It’s a one-stop shop for creativity and learning. makeitlabs.com