Best Summer Events in the White Mountains Near Lincoln, NH
When summer arrives in the White Mountains, the region comes alive with music, food, culture, and community spirit. From craft beer festivals to outdoor concerts and family-friendly parades, there’s always something happening near Lincoln, New Hampshire. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer escape at the Mountain Club on Loon, these top summer events offer the perfect way to experience local life and mountain charm.
1. New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival
One of the most celebrated events of the season, the New Hampshire Highland Games takes place at Loon Mountain each September. This three-day festival celebrates Scottish heritage with athletic competitions, bagpipe performances, clan gatherings, and traditional food and drink. Whether you have Scottish roots or are just curious, it’s a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Guests staying at the Mountain Club on Loon have a front-row seat to all the action, with the festival just steps from their door.
2. Lincoln’s Summer Concert Series
Nothing says “summer in New Hampshire” like live music under the stars. The town of Lincoln regularly hosts a free concert series at Soldier’s Park throughout the summer months. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pick up some takeout from a local eatery, and enjoy everything from folk to rock to bluegrass in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
3. White Mountains Boogie N’ Blues Festival
Located just a short drive from Lincoln in Thornton, NH, the White Mountains Boogie N’ Blues Festival is one of the longest-running blues festivals in New England. This three-day event draws music lovers from across the region and features national touring acts, local food vendors, and craft beer under the open sky.
It’s a great option for couples looking to pair their mountain getaway with incredible music in a laid-back setting.
4. Lincoln-Woodstock 4th of July Celebration
Visiting during Independence Day? Don’t miss the Lincoln-Woodstock 4th of July Celebration, which includes a lively parade, family games, food stands, and a fireworks show that lights up the White Mountain skyline. It’s an all-American celebration with a small-town heart, perfect for families and groups of friends.
Staying at the Mountain Club makes it easy to access the festivities while enjoying the comfort of a full-service resort after the fun.
5. Bavarian Hills Volksmarch & Summer Fest
If you love hiking with a festive twist, check out one of the region’s seasonal “Volksmarch” hiking festivals, where scenic trails meet German-inspired food, music, and beer gardens. Events like these rotate around different parts of the White Mountains and often pop up during mid-summer weekends.
Ask the concierge at the Mountain Club for up-to-date recommendations-they’ll help you find events that match your interests and schedule.
6. Local Farmers Markets & Craft Fairs
Throughout the summer, the White Mountains region is dotted with weekend farmer’s markets and pop-up artisan fairs. Lincoln and neighboring towns like Woodstock and North Woodstock host regular markets featuring local produce, handmade goods, and live acoustic music.
These are great spots to pick up unique souvenirs or sample local flavors-from maple syrup to mountain-made cheeses.
Make the Mountain Club on Loon Your Home Base
With its prime location at the base of Loon Mountain and proximity to all the region’s top summer events, the Mountain Club on Loon is the ideal home base for your White Mountains adventure. Enjoy spacious accommodations, a luxurious spa, mountain-view dining, and easy access to Lincoln’s event calendar-all wrapped in the natural beauty of New Hampshire.