Holidays in New England: Top Winter and Holiday Activities In New Hampshire

Bonfires on the beach, twinkly lights dotting the streets, and celebrations of rich history in this special season make for a one-of-a-kind experience. Winter in New England is a time of magic, and nowhere captures the holiday spirit quite like New Hampshire. From festive parades in Portsmouth to romantic carriage rides through snow-covered estates, the Granite State offers an array of unforgettable moments to make your holiday season uniquely bright. Oxland Builders knows the beauty of a New England winter, and we’re proud to be part of the Seacoast community that brings these traditions to life. As you enjoy these seasonal activities, you may envision ways to make your home a winter retreat. We specialize in custom remodeling and design-build projects that can transform your space into a personal sanctuary, perfect for winter evenings by the fire.

Winter in Portsmouth, New Hampshire by river

Top Holiday and Winter Events in New England

Let’s explore the top winter and holiday activities that make New Hampshire a true winter wonderland.

Strawbery Banke Museum’s Candlelight Stroll

Step back in time and experience a magical evening at the Strawbery Banke Museum’s Candlelight Stroll. This beloved Portsmouth tradition illuminates the museum’s historic village with glowing lanterns and holiday cheer. Visitors can walk through the beautifully decorated homes, meet costumed role-players who recreate centuries-old holiday traditions, enjoy festive performances throughout the museum, and warm themselves with cider by the fire.

Dates: The first three weekends in December.
Cost: Tickets are priced differently for members and non-members. Adult non-members cost $32, and non-member children (3-17) cost $16. Children under three years old are free but require a ticket.
Parking: On-site parking is limited, so consider arriving early or parking in downtown Portsmouth.
Insider Tip: We recommend booking tickets ahead, as this event sells out quickly. Member tickets go on sale one week before tickets are available to the general public. Consider a membership if you plan to attend multiple events at the museum this year!
New Offering: Accessible and Sensory-Friendly Stroll, Sunday, December 15, 2024, 2-4 PM

Ice Skating at Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond

Nothing says winter in Portsmouth quite like ice skating at Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond. This outdoor rink, set against the charming backdrop of Strawbery Banke’s historic homes, offers a quintessential winter experience for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or trying it out for the first time, the serene atmosphere makes it extra memorable.

Dates: Open from November through March, weather permitting.
Cost: Non-museum members over 5 pay $15. Members pay half price. Skate rentals are available for $6.
Parking: Public parking is available nearby, but on-site parking is limited.
Insider Tip: Visit in the evening when twinkling holiday lights light the rink. This picturesque scene is perfect for a romantic skate or family fun. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa from the on-site café to warm up.

Christmas at the Castle - Lucknow Estate

Celebrate the holiday season with a visit to Christmas at the Castle in Moultonborough, NH, located at the historic Lucknow Estate. This stately mansion in the Ossipee Mountains is beautifully adorned with festive decorations and offers visitors a self-guided tour through the luxurious rooms. Each space is uniquely styled with period-authentic holiday cheer.

Dates: Weekends, Mid-November through Mid-December
Cost: $25 for adults, $15 for children aged 5-17.
Parking: Ample parking is available on-site.
Fan Favorite: Warm up with the Castle Café’s mulled cider and seasonal baked goods.

Sleigh Rides at Bretton Woods Stables

There’s nothing more quintessentially winter in New England than a sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape. For a truly magical experience, head to Bretton Woods Stables at the iconic Mount Washington Resort. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, towering evergreens, and open fields draped in glistening snow.

Dates: Sleigh rides are available from mid-December through March, weather permitting.
Cost: Rides typically cost around $115 per couple, with private carriage options available.
Parking: Free parking is available at the resort.
Insider Tip: For the ultimate romantic experience, book a private ride at sunset and bring a cozy blanket to stay warm while you take in the stunning scenery.
Fan Favorite: After your sleigh ride, warm up with hot cocoa or a cocktail by the fireplace at the Mount Washington Hotel—a perfect way to cap off a winter day.

Portsmouth Christmas Parade

The Portsmouth Christmas Parade is a festive event that draws crowds from all over the Seacoast. Featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of holiday spirit, this beloved parade winds its way through the historic streets of downtown Portsmouth. The parade is a nighttime spectacle, with dazzling lights bringing a special glow to the city’s cobbled streets.

Date: The first Saturday in December.
Cost: Free to attend, though donations for local charities are encouraged.
Parking: Parking is available in the city’s public lots and garages, but plan to arrive early, as spaces fill up quickly.
Insider Tip: Head to Market Square or Congress Street for the best views. After the parade, grab dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants—locals recommend The Friendly Toast for a cozy, post-parade meal.
Fan Favorite: Watch for the appearance of Santa Claus at the end of the parade—always a crowd-pleaser!

Holiday Shopping in Downtown Portsmouth

Downtown Portsmouth transforms into a holiday shopper’s paradise each winter, with twinkling lights illuminating the charming storefronts. Stroll through the historic streets and discover local boutiques offering one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade crafts, and New England-themed goodies. From Market Square to the side streets, you’ll find treasures at every corner.

Dates: Holiday shopping is in full swing from late November through December.
Parking: Multiple public parking garages, including the Foundry Place Garage and the High-Hanover Garage, are located conveniently throughout downtown.
Insider Tip: Many shops offer free gift wrapping during the holiday season, so be sure to ask! And don’t miss out on the holiday window displays, as local businesses compete to create the most festive storefronts.
Fan Favorite: Stop by La Maison Navarre for a cup of their famous hot chocolate and a delicate French pastry to fuel your shopping spree.

Rye Beach Winter Walks

If you’re looking to escape the holiday crowds, a peaceful winter walk along Rye Beach offers a tranquil retreat. Just a short drive from Portsmouth, this stretch of the Seacoast becomes a quiet winter wonderland as the colder months set in. The crisp ocean air and stunning views make it the perfect spot for a crisp outing.

Parking: Free parking is available at Rye Harbor State Park or Jenness Beach.
Insider Tip: Bundle up and bring a blanket—sit on the rocks near Odiorne Point to watch the sunset over the Atlantic. Winter sunsets are particularly vibrant on the coast.
Fan Favorite: Grab lunch afterward at Petey’s Summertime Seafood—it’s one of the few places still open in the off-season, serving up fresh chowder and warm lobster rolls.

Exeter Festival of Trees

A beloved community tradition, the Exeter Festival of Trees brings festive cheer to this quaint town each year. Local businesses and residents alike decorate trees in creative, holiday-themed designs, and the event culminates in an auction where attendees can bid on their favorite trees. All proceeds go to local charities, making it a feel-good event in every sense.

Date: Early December (exact date varies; check their Facebook page for updates).
Cost: Free to attend, with proceeds from the auction supporting local causes.
Parking: Public parking is available near downtown Exeter, including spaces along Water Street.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to take in all the beautifully decorated trees, and stay for the tree auction—many are perfect for decorating your home.
Fan Favorite: Warm up with local vendors' hot cider and homemade cookies.

York’s Festival of Lights

Just over the border in Maine, York’s Festival of Lights is a magical celebration of the holiday season. The town is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations and hosts a variety of events, including a holiday parade and a visit from Santa. This small-town celebration feels like stepping into a storybook winter wonderland.

Date: Typically the first weekend of December, but events stretch throughout the month.
Cost: Free to attend.
Parking: Free parking is available at York Beach and other municipal lots.
Insider Tip: Stick around after the parade for the bonfire on Short Sands Beach, a local favorite and the perfect way to cap off a festive evening.
Fan Favorite: Be sure to stop by The Goldenrod for their famous taffy, a York Beach staple since 1896.

Seacoast Science Center Winter Programs

For families and nature lovers, the Seacoast Science Center in Rye offers engaging winter programs focusing on marine life and environmental education. With hands-on activities, educational talks, and outdoor exploration, this is a perfect way to enjoy New Hampshire’s beautiful coastline while learning something new.

Dates: Winter programs run from December through February; check their calendar for specific events.
Cost: Program fees vary, but many are free with admission (typically around $8-10).
Parking: Free parking is available on-site at Odiorne Point State Park.
Insider Tip: Dress warmly for outdoor programs and bring binoculars—winter is a great time to spot migratory birds along the coast.
Fan Favorite: The “Winter Beach Safari” is a hit with families, offering guided tours of tide pools and beach habitats.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Portsmouth

Ring in the new year with a bang by attending the New Year’s Eve Fireworks in downtown Portsmouth. This festive event lights up the night sky over the Piscataqua River, creating a breathtaking display that draws crowds from across the Seacoast. Bundle up, gather with friends and family, and celebrate the start of a new year in one of New Hampshire’s most charming towns.

Date: December 31st, around 7:30 PM (check the City of Portsmouth website for updates).
Cost: Free to attend.
Parking: Use one of Portsmouth’s many public garages, like the High-Hanover Garage, for easy access to the downtown area.
Insider Tip: Prescott Park offers the best views of the fireworks over the river, but arrive early to claim your spot.
Fan Favorite: After the fireworks, head to one of the local pubs like The Thirsty Moose to warm up with a drink and toast to the new year.

Ice Castles in Woodstock, NH

A winter wonderland unlike any other, the Ice Castles in Woodstock, NH, are a must-see holiday attraction. These breathtaking castles are carved from ice and feature towering walls, tunnels, ice slides, and stunning light displays that make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.

Dates: Open late December through February, weather permitting. Tickets must be purchased in advance through their website.
Cost: Prices range from $20–$27 for adults and $15–$22 for children, depending on the day.
Parking: On-site parking is available for a small fee.
Insider Tip: Wear waterproof boots and layers—temperatures inside the ice structures can be much colder. Visit in the evening to see the castles illuminated in vibrant colors.
Fan Favorite: Don’t miss the ice slide for a thrilling experience or the walk through the ice tunnel, which is especially magical under the lights.

Your Personal Retreat Should be Just as Magical

Oxland Builders believes that home is where your best memories are made—especially during the holidays. If you're thinking about upgrading your living space or creating the perfect winter retreat, we can help. As a local design-build firm, we specialize in custom remodeling that integrates seamlessly with your home’s style and history. Whether it’s a new, cozy living room, an updated kitchen for holiday gatherings, or an entire home renovation, we’ll bring your vision to life with our superior craftsmanship and design expertise.