Autumn is one of the best times to experience New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Cooler temperatures make outdoor adventures comfortable, fall colors transform the landscape, and local farms, nature centers, and communities fill the calendar with seasonal activities.
From guided nature programs to Halloween scares, the variety of Lakes Region events gives visitors plenty of reasons to plan a fall getaway. Here are four events and experiences worth adding to your itinerary.
Fungi Foray
Take a closer look at one of the most interesting parts of the forest during the annual Fungi Foray at The Fells in Newbury. The event begins with an educational presentation about mushrooms before participants head out on an identification walk along woodland and lakeshore trails. Both beginners and visitors with previous mushroom knowledge are welcome. It is a fun way to learn more about the ecosystems that make New Hampshire’s fall landscape so interesting.
Discover Squam Guided Lake Cruise
Fall foliage looks even better from the water. The Discover Squam Guided Lake Cruise at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center typically runs daily through mid-October, giving travelers a chance to experience the lake during the heart of autumn.
The 90-minute cruise travels aboard a canopied pontoon boat while a guide discusses Squam Lake’s natural and cultural history. Keep watch for bald eagles and common loons while taking in views of the surrounding mountains. Guests staying in our New Hampshire Lakes Region rentals can easily make this nature-focused excursion part of a full day of exploring.
Advance reservations are required, so plan ahead if the cruise is high on your fall itinerary.
Autumn Craft Festival on the Lake
Held at Mill Falls Marketplace along Lake Winnipesaukee, this free outdoor festival features more than 70 juried artisans and specialty food makers. Browse handmade jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, home décor, sculpture, fine art, and other creative pieces. The event is also a good opportunity to pick up unique gifts before the holiday season.
Best of all, you can enjoy the festival while spending time right along the lake. Staying in our Lake Winnipesaukee rentals puts you close to Meredith and makes it easy to pair the festival with sightseeing, dining, and leaf-peeping.
Beans & Screams Fear Farm Walk
Traveling in October and looking for something scarier? Head to Beans & Greens Farm in Gilford for Beans & Screams. The event typically runs every Friday and Saturday in October. The experience begins on a dark woodland trail before leading guests through abandoned greenhouse spaces filled with scares and surprises. Attendees younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
If spooky attractions are part of your favorite Halloween traditions, Beans & Screams offers a very different side of the Lakes Region after dark.
Final Thoughts
Autumn brings together many of the experiences that make the Lakes Region special. You can spend one day learning about mushrooms or cruising Squam Lake and another browsing handmade goods or testing your courage at a haunted farm.
Because these events span September and October, there are plenty of opportunities to build a fall trip around the activities that interest you most.
Plan Your Visit
Feeling a fall breeze and ready to explore the best of Lake Winnipesaukee’s autumn activities? Begin planning your New Hampshire getaway now to enjoy all the fall festivities and find the perfect rental home from our wonderful selection!
Book Your Lake Winnipesaukee Rental with Break Away Vacation Rentals
Make Break Away Vacation Rentals your home base for an autumn escape to New Hampshire. Our vacation rentals give you a comfortable place to relax between lake cruises, festivals, outdoor adventures, and other seasonal activities. Explore our available properties and start planning a Lake Winnipesaukee getaway filled with crisp weather, changing leaves, and memorable fall experiences.
