The Weekender, October 12-15: Pumpkin Fests, Chocolate Expo, Hocus Pocus Fest, Art Walk + more

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MANCHESTER, NH – We’ve got another October weekend full of fall activities for you! Check out what’s happening to enjoy the season.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out our searchable comprehensive Community Calendar. Know of an upcoming event? Add it – it’s free!

For rain dates and weather cancellations be sure to check event pages for social media updates.

Lively arts and live music on your radar? Check out the weekly Entertainment Report.


Screen Shot 2023 10 11 at 7.57.52 PMMulti-Day Events

October 14-15

Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and Regatta, Goffstown NH – Goffstown is once again hosting their Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and Regatta this weekend! Take a look at the events taking place, live music, where to park and more here.

Brimfield Antique Show at the Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NH – The world-famous Brimfield Antique Shows Traveling Show is returning to NH for its first-ever fall show, Brimfield North! Over 200 spaces over two days full of antique and vintage vendors, artisans and food trucks will be there and so should you. Note – dogs not allowed, with the exception of service dogs. Click here for more info.


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Enough With The Ravens! by QUIBX

October 13

Nevermore, a Friday the 13th Artists Reception by Mosaic Art Collective, Manchester, NH – This October, as nightfall casts its shadow and the boundaries between the worlds waver, Mosaic Art Collective unveils its evocative exhibition, “Nevermore.” Summoning artists from all corners, we tread the path where artistry mingles with the mystique, and creativity dares to delve into the foreboding. The exhibition, at 66 Hanover St., runs through the month of October. Reception is Friday the 13th. Details and examples of the featured artwork can be found here.

October 14

Hocus Pocus Fest, Manchester NH – Hocus Pocus on Hanover Spiritual Fair presented by Shadow and Soul Emporium will be at the Palace Theatre’s Spotlight Room on Hanover St. If you weren’t able to purchase a ticket online, $6 cash will get you through the door at 2PM.

Screenshot 2023 10 11 at 8.52.17 PMManchester Arts Commission Open Studios & Art Walk Manchester, NH – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Start at City Hall and pick up a printed map (also available at participating studios). An online map will be posted on Oct. 14 – follow MAC on Facebook to get the link.

Bridge Mural Ribbon Cutting, Manchester NH – 1:45 p.m. Come celebrate the bridge mural ribbon cutting at Arms Park this Saturday! This will be a day full of food trucks, art for sale and celebrations!

366747748 194473560299017 6859404583994274348 nPumpkinfest Psychic and Craft Fair, Hooksett, NH – Join us at the Hooksett American Legion for a day of family fun! Vendors, psychic readers, artisans, crafters and more will be here from 11 a.m. -4 p.m. with their hand-crafted offerings! More info via Facebook.

Rocktoberfest at the Auburn Pitts, Auburn, NH – 3 p.m.  An “All-Day Support Local Rock’n’Roll Festival” (for proof rock’n’roll ain’t dead!) Six bands will rock the Auburn Pitts outdoor stage with covers and originals! 21+ 167 Rockingham Rd. More info via Facebook.


Screen Shot 2023 10 11 at 7.58.57 PMOctober 15

Paws and Pumpkins Fall Fest, Manchester NH – The Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter will be hosting their Paws and Pumpkins Fall Fest at Stark Brewing Company starting at noon. Sunday will be filled with a day of family fun with pumpkin painting, kids crafts, vendors and more!

imagesThe Chocolate Expo 2023, Doubletree Expo Center in Manchester – 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. The Chocolate Expo brings tastings & sales of chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, craft beverages (wines, spirits & more) along with entertainment throughout the day from dozens of vendors to the Doubletree Expo Center. Tickets and info.

Mount Uncanoonuc Brewfest to benefit the Worker Bee Fund – Goffstown, NH 1-5 p.m. – Swarm over to the Mount Uncanoonuc Brewfest, 533 Mast Rd., on Saturday October 15th and have a beer to support the Worker Bee Fund! Proceeds support the Worker Bee Fund, which assists disabled veterans with repairs and upkeep of their homes. Brewfest details here.


Planning Ahead?

October 21: Keene Pumpkin Fest, Keene NH

October 24: Mayoral Debate, Manchester NH

October 27: Spooktacular Downtown Trick or Treat Extravaganza, Downtown Manchester NH 


About this Author

Chelcie Pinsonneault

Chelcie Pinsonneault is a city dweller who loves gourmet hot dogs and prosecco.