The holidays in New Hampshire sparkle with tradition, joy, and plenty of twinkling lights. From festive strolls and family-friendly attractions to cookie tours and winter wonderlands, the season is filled with opportunities to make lasting memories. Here’s just a sampling of the fun awaiting you across the Granite State.
Candlelight Stroll at Strawbery Banke, Portsmouth
December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 2025
Step back in time at this beloved Seacoast tradition. Hundreds of lanterns illuminate the historic Puddle Dock neighborhood as costumed role players, musicians, and carolers bring holiday traditions of the past to life. Tour decorated homes, sip hot cider, and feel the season’s magic. This event sells out quickly, so purchase tickets in advance.
Currier and Ives Cookie Tour, Monadnock Region
December 13, 2025
Inns, B&Bs, breweries, and shops welcome guests with homemade treats and plenty of holiday cheer during this self-guided cookie tour. Now in its 20th year, the Currier & Ives tour features 16 local stops where you can sample sweets, shop for unique gifts, and soak up small-town holiday spirit.
Gift of Lights, Loudon
Cruise through 3.5 million lights at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Featuring more than 500 displays, 80 themed scenes, and a glowing 150-foot Tunnel of Lights, this drive-through spectacle is a must-see Central New Hampshire holiday tradition. Check the schedule for days of operation when planning your trip.
Holly Jolly Journey, Litchfield
November 28, 2025 – January 11, 2026
A magical holiday transforms Mel’s Funway Park into a sparkling wonderland. Walk more than two-thirds of a mile through themed areas like the Zoo of Lights, Candy Cane Forest, and Arctic Adventure. Warm up with cocoa or s’mores as holiday music fills the air.
Inn to Inn Cookie Tour, Mt Washington Valley
December 13 – 14, 2025
A sweet tradition for nearly three decades, this self-guided tour lets you explore historic inns beautifully decorated for the season. Sample signature cookies, candies, and recipes while soaking up holiday décor. Tickets sell out fast for this longest-running cookie tour in New England.
Jingle Bell Chocolate Tour, Jackson
Climb aboard a horse-drawn Austrian sleigh and ride through picturesque Jackson Village, stopping along the way for chocolate treats from local chocolatiers. Now in its 23rd year, this holiday favorite includes a keepsake jingle bell and festive bag for your goodies. Advance tickets are essential.
LaBelle Lights, Derry
November 14, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Stroll through millions of twinkling lights at LaBelle Winery’s outdoor show. With fun theme nights like Ugly Sweater or Holiday PJs, this family-friendly experience is bigger and brighter every year. Make holiday memories with family and friends as you explore the stunning displays
Santa’s Christmas at Charmingfare Farm, Candia
November 29 – 30, December 5-7, 12 – 14, 19 -21, 2025
Hop on a horse-drawn sleigh and follow the Christmas Trail through a farm transformed into a winter wonderland. Visit Mrs. Claus for cookies and cocoa, see the barnyard animals, and meet Santa and his reindeer. Truly a magical holiday experience for the young and the young at heart.
Santa’s Village, Jefferson
November 8,15, 22 – 23, , 28-30, December 6 – 7, 13 – 14, 20 - 21
Though Christmas-themed year-round, there’s something extra magical about visiting Santa’s Village during the holiday season. A million sparkling lights, festive rides, and Christmas music create unforgettable memories in this North Country treasure. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Vintage Christmas, Portsmouth
Various dates throughout December
The Seacoast city of Portsmouth comes alive with a month-long celebration of shows, strolls, and shopping. Don’t miss the Gingerbread House Exhibition, the annual parade and tree lighting, and holiday shows at the historic Music Hall.
