Early Fall Events to Attend This September
Get a head start on leaf-peeping season
The peak of foliage season in New Hampshire may be next month, but you can beat the crowds (and take injust-as-nice views) if you start your leaf-peeping early. From harvest moon celebrations to train tours of the state’s finest autumn leaves, here are a few suggestions for making the most of the first days of fall.
Fall Food & Wine Festival, September 25
Nashua’s Cava de Vino heads to LaBelle Winery for this brand-new culinary event. More than 70 products will be available to sample, from wine and cheese to infused maple syrups and seasonal relish and chutney. Local winemakers, cheesemakers and chocolatiers will be on hand to discuss how to incorporate these harvest-time products into your September table.
Harvest Moon and Naturefest, September 25
The September full moon (which falls on September 16) is known as the Harvest Moon, a nickname popularly attributed to Native American lore. Celebrate this connection wtih a special event at the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum. This family-friendly festival features nature walks, wildlife encounters and demonstrations in Native American craft and cooking.
Parade of the Pumpkins, September 13-18
In the final days before they close for the season on September 30, Tarbin Gardens shines the spotlight on these seasonal favorite plants. Get your fill of pumpkins and gourds (without the hustle and bustle of a packed pumpkin patch) on a self-guided tour and tuck in to a bring-your-own picnic lunch or the gardens’ specialty, English cream tea.
Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroads’ Foliage Trains, Starting September 17
Leave the car behind and take in the month’s best views in style. Hobo Railroad and Winnepsaukee Scenic Railroad kick off their seasons this month with options for everyone. Bring the whole family on the Hobo Harvest Time Express in Lincoln — don’t miss their “Scarecrows of the Oval Office” display — try a dinner cruise catered by Hart’s Turkey Farm, or go full luxury in a Pullman car on a half-day ride from Meredith to Plymouth and back.
