What To Do Memorial Day Weekend: Events, Parades and More

There are plenty of things to do during Memorial Day weekend 2023, including craft fairs, parades and much more

May 17, 2023

New Hampshire Magazine Staff,

David Everett Strickler 4 Yo3wmi Ru Unsplash

Memorial Day weekend is here, which means so is the unofficial start to summer. The three-day weekend is typically filled with days spent outdoors at the lake or beach, grills fired up to cook a variety of burgers and Memorial Day recipes, and red, white and blue desserts that Gordon Ramsey would approve of (maybe). While you are out enjoying any one of the events we rounded up for you below, don’t forget the purpose of this national holiday: honoring those who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military.

Memorial Day Parades and Celebrations

You can find parades, community picnics and Memorial Day ceremonies in every corner of the state.
Click here for a growing list of NH Memorial Day parades and ceremonies

Flying Gravity Circus, May 26-28, Wilton

The Flying Gravity Circus Aqua Troupe, comprised of New Hampshire youth grades 6-12, will be performing at Andy’s Summer Playhouse for four unforgettable shows Memorial Day weekend. Tickets are $12 and children 5 and younger are free. flyinggravitycircus.org

Annual Lisbon Lilac Festival, May 27-28, Lisbon

Head to picturesque Lisbon and enjoy amusement rides, parades, fireworks, shopping, food and more. Facebook

31st Annual Memorial Day Craft Festival, May 27-29, Meredith

Over 100 juried craftsmen and women from all over New England will display and sell their work including fine jewelry, scarves, photography, country woodcrafts, pottery, music and more at the Mill Falls Marketplace in Meredith. Come and sample the culinary delights of herbal dips, maple, hot sauces, jams and jellies. castleberryfairs.com

Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad Opening Weekend, May 28-29, Multiple locations

Take an old-fashioned train ride along the western shores of Lake Winnipesaukee or along the Pemigewasset River, and finish your trip with a rail bike tour along Lake Winnisquam. hoborr.com

Fireworks, May 28, Hampton Beach

It may not be warm enough to swim in the ocean (unless you’re brave!) but if you’re heading to the coast to celebrate the long weekend, then make sure you top off your Blink’s Fry Dough with a fireworks display. Fireworks are shot off between the top of B and C streets, so grab a blanket or a chair and watch the show. hamptonbeach.org

Wildquack Duck Race & Music Festival, May 28, Jackson

This annual event includes duck races, traveling train rides, a silent auction, games and live music. Local and visiting food vendors offer fabulous barbecue foods, fair foods, kettle corn, ice cream, lobster sandwiches and more. Watch the “ever-growing” parade starting from the Covered Bridge at 1:30 p.m., have your picture taken with “Wildquack” the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Duck, visit local businesses and really enjoy this “ole” fashioned “day in the park.” jacksonnh.com

Cisco Brewers Portsmouth 5K, May 28, Portsmouth

The Cisco Brewers Portsmouth 5K is back and better than ever. This legacy road race is a community-wide fundraising event for Krempels Center and the largest race in the Seacoast Road Race Series. Post-race festivities will feature a BBQ feast catered by Cisco Brewers, live music, kids activities and more. Lace up your sneakers and make a difference in the lives of brain injury survivors and their families. runsignup.com

33rd Annual Chowderfest, May 29, Waterville Valley

Head to Town Square just in time for lunch as area restaurants vie for the coveted title of best local chowder. Your admission fee covers generous samples of chowder and a voting ballot. There will also be free live music at the Town Square gazebo. waterville.com