Fun things to do in Northern New England

A curated list of the best upcoming events in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Maine

Harvest on the Harbor

October 23–26 One of Maine’s most beloved food festivals allows attendees to meet some of the state’s best chefs and mixologists. Highlights include “Oysterfest,” featuring shellfish farmed along the coast, and “Maine Cocktail Classic,” offering samplings from the Maine Distillers Guild. Attendees must be at least 21. Tickets start at $78. O’Maine Studios, Portland.

Downeast Cider + Cheese Festival

FREE! November 8–10 This festival honors two Maine agricultural traditions: the apple harvest and cheesemaking. The weekend features nearly a dozen local producers of hard cider and artisan cheeses, along with live music, lectures, and demonstrations. Some ticketed events range from $20–$100. Various locations, Ellsworth.

Festival of Trees

November 22–24, 29–30; and December 1 This annual event showcases an array of creatively decorated Christmas trees. A 50/50 drawing takes place each day. Visitors can enter a raffle to win their favorite tree; proceeds support local charities and organizations. Adults, $2. Waterville Elks Banquet Center, Waterville.

Winter Craft Fair

FREE! December 7–8 Featuring makers from throughout northern Maine, this fair is a chance to finish your holiday shopping while supporting local artisans. Presque Isle Community Center, Presque Isle.

Rangeley Community Chorus Holiday Concert

FREE! December 13 This local chorus joins forces with the Rangeley Ringers handbell choir to share classic Christmas music and original holiday works. Church of the Good Shepherd, Rangeley.

New Hampshire

Lizzie

Through October 27 This rock opera reimagines the story of Lizzie Borden, America’s most famous axe murderer. An all-female cast explores the potential motivation for Lizzie’s gruesome acts. Tickets start at $37.50. Seacoast Repertory Theatre, Portsmouth.

Halloween Haunted Hangar

October 19 An aviation museum transforms into a haunted locale for children to explore during the morning and early afternoon, when ghosts of aviators past pay a visit. While there, families can explore aviation history and receive a license to fly a broomstick. Adults, $10. Free for all between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. Aviation Museum of New Hampshire, Londonderry.

BeadStock

November 2 This craft fair celebrates beadwork from Native American traditions and other cultures. Beading artwork from regional artisans is for sale, and food is available. Tickets start at $12. Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Warner.

LaBelle Lights

November 12–January 19 A winery transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland. Take a walking tour of displays that feature millions of lights. Special light displays coincide with weekly themes such as ugly sweaters, holiday card opportunities, and hidden elves. Adults, $18 (half price on Tuesdays); online purchase suggested. LaBelle Winery, Derry.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

November 15–17 Enjoy the circus once again. This storied troupe has reshaped its shows for modern audiences, with a focus on human acrobatics over animal tricks and clown acts. Tickets start at $19. SNHU Arena, Manchester.

Vermont

Carnage 27: A Tabletop Gaming Convention

November 1–3 At this weekend convention, gamers can participate in board and card games, strategy war games, and live-action roleplay. Open gaming sessions, tournaments, and game vendors add to the fun. Adult tickets start at $40 in advance for one day ($45 at the door), $75 in advance for the weekend ($90 at the door). Killington Grand Resort, Killington.

Nurse Blake: Shock Advised Tour

November 21 A sassy practicing nurse with a sharp tongue shares an acerbic perspective on working in health care. This standup show may be for both nurses and patients, but it is not for the easily offended. Tickets start at $51.80. Paramount Theatre, Rutland.

Judy Collins: Holiday & Hits Tour

December 12 A quintessential talent who has been performing for more than five decades, Collins draws on her extensive musical catalog and adds holiday favorites for this show. Tickets start at $40. The Flynn, Burlington.

Champlain Trio: Holiday Concert

December 14 Three Julliard-trained musicians meld piano, violin, and cello to create seasonal cheer for their annual holiday concert. Adults, $21. The Double E Performance Center at Essex Experience, Essex.

Confirm hours and availability of businesses, attractions, and events before you visit. Be sure to designate a driver if you plan to drink alcohol.