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Trip Ideas|Small Towns

Here Are The 10 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In New Hampshire

Explore the best Christmas towns in New Hampshire, each offering unique holiday experiences and scenic beauty.

Updated Oct 17, 2022

Written by 

Kelly A. Burch

The Christmas season is filled with magic, wonder, and excitement, and it's one of the best times of the year for many. While all of New Hampshire is beautiful during the holidays, some towns are especially captivating. From gorgeous light displays to parades and Christmas festivals, these towns know how to celebrate. Here are the ten best New Hampshire Christmas towns. Do you think you can visit them all?

1. Portsmouth

A festive parade scene with a decorated float featuring reindeer and a Christmas tree, surrounded by a large crowd.
Vintage Christmas

The first of the best Christmas towns in New Hampshire is Portsmouth. New Hampshire's seaside city celebrates Christmas in a big way. Don't miss the Candlelight Stroll Under the Stars at the Banke Museum, the annual gingerbread house contest sponsored by the Portsmouth Historical Society, ice skating, and holiday music at Stage Door Cabaret. There will also be a Christmas tree lighting and parade in Market Square in early December. Head to the Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth website and the City of Portsmouth website for event details.

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2. Stark

A snowy scene at dusk featuring a lit church and a covered bridge, surrounded by mountains and festive decorations.
James Walsh/flickr

Not only is Stark beautiful, but the town has a great Christmas spirit. More than 50 years ago children from the town collected money to light the covered bridge. Now, it has become a tradition to light it every year. Stark at Christmas is quite magical!

3. North Conway

A man drives a horse-drawn sleigh through snow in front of a white house with green shutters.
Harvey Barrison/flickr

If you're looking for things to do at Christmas in New Hampshire, North Conway is the town to visit! Hop aboard Santa's Holiday Express at the Conway Scenic Railroad. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and participate in a scavenger hunt on the hour-long ride. North Conway's Settlers Green will host several events throughout the season like the NH Festival of Trees, Photos with Santa, and a Holiday Festival. Visit the Settlers Green website and the Conway Scenic Railroad website.

4. Concord

A brightly lit Christmas tree adorned with colorful lights and a star on top, set against a night sky.
Tracey Lee Carol/flickr

The state's capital has plenty of Christmas cheer. The Concord Christmas tree lighting is held in front of the statehouse the day after Thanksgiving.

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5. Hanover

A brightly lit Christmas tree stands in front of a historic building with a clock tower, illuminated at night.
Tracy Lee Carroll/Flickr

Picturesque Hanover at Christmas is absolutely stunning with a distinctly old-school New England feel. Start your celebration at Hanover's Downtown Festival of Lights featuring decorated trees and storefronts, a holiday tree on the Green, and a menorah, all among thousands of lights. On select dates in December, the Hanover Holiday Food Market is where you can purchase food from market stalls. 'Tis the season to visit Hanover! Visit the Hanover Parks and Recreation website for upcoming activities and events.

6. Keene

A cozy holiday display featuring a decorated Christmas tree, fireplace, and framed artwork on a purple wall.
Lorianne DiSabato/flickr

A stroll through downtown Keene at Christmas reveals some truly breathtaking window displays, perfect for getting in the holiday spirit. You can also check out the Explore Keene website for seasonal events.

7. Nashua

Colorful ice sculptures of a train, illuminated with vibrant lights, displayed on a wet surface at night.
Tracey Lee Carol/flickr

Nashua is full of beautiful Christmas decorations, starting with the gorgeous ice sculptures and more on display during its annual Downtown Nashua holiday stroll.

8. Lebanon

City Hall adorned with holiday lights, surrounded by decorated trees and a snowy park at dusk.
Lebanon Area Chamber Of Commerce/Facebook

Lebanon's charming town green fills with Christmas flair during the holidays. Check out the Christmas Tree Lighting and Festival, Winter Wednesdays featuring free crafts at Lebanon's public libraries, and keep your eyes out for Santa who will be visiting different neighborhoods throughout December. Head to the Lebanon New Hampshire website for event details.

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9. Jackson

A festive sleigh with Santa and passengers, pulled by two horses, in a snowy setting near a decorated inn.
Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce/facebook

Nestled in the White Mountains, Jackson looks the part for a Christmas village in New Hampshire, and the town does not disappoint. Head into the village to view the enchanting light displays. And then there's Christmas Farm Inn, a must-visit as it celebrates the holiday all year! During December, it hosts a Jingle Bell Chocolate Tour that features sleigh rides and chocolate (be warned, this event sells out quickly). Visit the Christmas Farm Inn website for this year's activities and events.

10. Enfield

A festive display of colorful Christmas lights in various shapes, including trees, stars, and the word "Joy."
Sarunas Burdulis/flickr

Over ten acres of Christmas lights illuminate the La Salette Shrine in Enfield each night in a spectacular display of dazzling lights. It's one of the best places to spend a New Hampshire Christmas. Visit the LaSallette Enfield website for the latest news on upcoming events.

Would you agree that these are the best Christmas towns in New Hampshire? If you know of any others, feel free to reach out and tell us about them. And if you can't get enough of Christmas in the Granite State, check out some of the best holiday light displays in New Hampshire.

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Trip Ideas|Small Towns

The Small New Hampshire Town Of Bartlett Has More Outdoor Attractions Than Any Other Place In The State

Published Aug 26, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

Crawford Notch is a part of New Hampshire wherein I spend a lot of time. Some of my favorite hiking spots are located in this area of the state. While the notch itself is a fantastic area of natural beauty, there's also a small town a short distance to the east where you can enjoy a variety of New Hampshire outdoor attractions. The small town of Bartlett, nestled in the White Mountains, is a haven for outdoors enthusiasts who love to hike, fish, ski, and more!

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Located in the southeastern corner of the town is Diana's Baths, a series of cascades that tumble down along Lucy Brook. This is not only a location of natural beauty but is also a popular swimming spot in summer, so plan your visit accordingly as parking is limited. For more information, visit the White Mountain National Forest.

A serene forest scene with a rocky stream, surrounded by lush green trees and gentle waterfalls.
Travis Fields/All Trails

For a short hike to see what Bartlett looks like from above, take the walk up to White Ledge on Mt. Stanton. This open ledge provides an expansive view over the valley below for only 1.1 miles of hiking and a bit of steep climbing. For more information, visit the White Mountain National Forest.

A panoramic view of lush green mountains and a winding river from a rocky overlook.
Ken MacGray/Flickr

Another short and interesting hiking destination is Cave Mountain, reached by the unofficial Cave Mountain Path off Mt. Langdon Trail. The path leads to a cliff and cave on the south side of the mountain. Experienced hikers can continue beyond the cave to Cave Mountain's summit, where there are restricted views. For more information, visit the White Mountain National Forest.

View from inside a rocky cave, looking out at a lush green forest with tall trees and soft natural light.
Larry B/All Trails

The Saco River flows through Bartlett on its 136-mile eastward journey from Crawford Notch to the Atlantic Ocean. In its early days, the river was a major transportation route and also provided water power to towns and cities along its banks. Many access points, primarily along U.S. Route 302, allow for fishing, swimming, and small boat (canoe, kayak) launching.

A serene river flows through a forest with vibrant autumn foliage under a cloudy sky.
Cappi Thompson/Moment via Getty Images

Railfans will want to check out the historic Bartlett Roundhouse, just south of U.S. Route 302 and east of Pine Street. Constructed in 1887-1888, the facility contains the remnants of a 56-foot railroad turntable that routed trains into the service bays. The roundhouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015 and is currently being restored to its original condition but a local organization. For more information, visit the Bartlett Roundhouse Preservation Society.

A weathered green building with boarded windows, situated near railroad tracks and surrounded by trees.
Magicpiano/Wikimedia Commons

Bartlett is home to Attitash Mountain Resort, home to some of the best skiing in the area. Its slopes also provide some incredible views of the White Mountains to the north. Aside from great skiing, the resort also offers fun things to do like its annual Oktoberfest event, a scavenger hunt, live music, fireworks, and more. For more information, visit Attitash Mountain Resort.

Two skiers descend a snowy slope surrounded by evergreen trees and mountains under a cloudy sky.
Attitash Ski Resort/Facebook

If you are not a downhill skier you can strap on those cross-country skis and explore the more than 40 miles of trails at Bear Notch Ski Touring. This remote trail system visits scenic riverside views, beautiful waterfalls, picturesque meadows, and rolling hills. Bring your own gear or rent it from the center. For more information, visit Bear Notch Ski Touring.

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A snowy landscape with a winding path, trees covered in snow, and a river reflecting the winter scenery.
Bear Notch Ski Touring/Facebook

If you love spending time outdoors in New Hampshire, here's a fantastic 100-mile road trip that should go on your to-do list.

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Trip Ideas|Small Towns

This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town In New Hampshire Is So Worth Exploring

Published Aug 8, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

Western New Hampshire is one of my favorite places for hiking due to the spectacular summits and varied terrain. This also tends to be a quieter part of the state, well away from the more busy population centers. Whenever I travel over to hike at Mt. Cardigan, I pass through the New Hampshire small town of Alexandria. The center of its village isn't exactly what you would call a bustling metropolis but within the town's borders, Alexandria offers a lot to see.

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The tiny hamlet of Alexandria in western New Hampshire doesn't have a booming downtown but that doesn't mean it's without interest. First settled in 1769, the town was later incorporated in 1782. A portion of Alexandria was later spun off into today's town of Danbury in 1795.

A large white building with a porch, labeled "Town Hall," set against a cloudy sky and surrounded by power lines.
Magicpiano/Wikimedia Commons

The 4,451-acre Newfound Lake is in the northeast corner of the town and is the third largest lake entirely within New Hampshire behind Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake.

A serene view of a lake surrounded by forested hills and a small island, under a cloudy sky.
Ken MacGray/Flickr

The Fowler River rises from its headwaters on Mt. Cardigan, flows through Alexandria, and empties out into Newfound Lake.

A serene river flows through rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees and autumn foliage.
Ken Gallager/Wikimedia Commons

The dominant landscape feature in the area is the 3,149-foot Mt. Cardigan, which lies in Alexandria and neighboring Orange. Its bald dome was bared by a raging fire in 1855. As a result, it has become one of the most scenic hiking destinations in the state (and one of my personal favorites).

A rocky mountain peak surrounded by dense green forests and distant hills under a clear sky.
Ken MacGray/Flickr

In addition to Mt. Cardigan, Alexandria is home to Mowglis Mountain, which gets its name from the hero in Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book. The long-distance Elwell Trail passes over the summit.

A sketch of a wolf approaching a person resting in a natural setting, surrounded by trees and foliage.
Public domain/Wikimedia Commons

Tucked away near Mt. Cardigan is the tiny Welton Falls State Forest, which protects Welton Falls. This 30-foot drop of Clark Brook is a wonderful spot during times of high water.

A serene waterfall cascades through rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green foliage and moss-covered stones.
Bob Rea/All Trails

The Haynes Library, established in 1894, was one of the first free-standing libraries in this region. The library closed in 2019 but was later placed on the National Registry of Historic Places, which may result in its reopening in the future.

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A red brick building with a sloped roof, featuring a sign that reads "Haynes Library" and surrounded by green grass.
Magicpiano/Wikimedia Commons

If you are in western New Hampshire and are looking for a New Hampshire small town to explore, give Alexandria a look! Visit the official website of Alexandria, New Hampshire to learn more.

New Hampshire has soooooo many neat small towns to explore, and here's a six-hour road trip that will bring you to several of them.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/hidden-gem-road-trip-nh/

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