| |
Summertime Reflections on Lake Sunapee.
Photo Credit: Brent Stocker | | | | |
|
If it felt ever so much busier in Sunapee Harbor this summer... that's because it was! The buzz began early every Saturday morning at the Farmers Market with bountiful produce, crafts and music. Doors opened at Wild Goose Country Store & Harborside Trading and the newest establishment, Sunapee Cellar & Pantry. The Teddy Bears had their annual picnic. Families gathered for "Movies Under The Stars" and music wafted thru the air from 4 venues. CFA presented their annual blockbuster Naturally New England exhibit at The Livery.
All the while, LSPA, the Historical Museum and The Livery doors were open presenting a variety of interesting programs and classes. Anglers of all ages caught a record number of Rock Bass and vintage boats paraded on "Love Our Lakes" day. Gardens tended by volunteers were gloriously in bloom all around!
Diners eagerly lined up for a table at new eateries: Blue Canoe, the Taco Trailer and Hoptimystic, as well as long time favorites, Fenton's Landing, Stacy's Smoothies, The Smokehouse and Quack Shack.
At the same time, the MV Mt. Sunapee and the Lake Queen ferried passengers around the lake.
Follow "Happenings" for even more activities on tap to toast the end of the summer and welcome autumn.
| | | | |
| |
POSTED ON SEPTEMBER 8th | WMUR | | NH CHRONICLE: SUNAPEE LIGHTHOUSES | | Getting a look at the mission to save three lake landmarks. A look at the historic Sunapee Lighthouses and the effort to keep them standing for the next generation of boaters. | | | | |
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17th | 5:30 PM | Hoptimystic Brewery in Sunapee Harbor | | BEAT THE LIBRARIANS TRIVIA NIGHT | | |
Do you think you can beat a librarian at Trivia? Join Abbott Library staff and Hoptimystic Brewing in Sunapee Harbor for our first ever Trivia Night!
Game will begin at 5:30 PM. Join individually or with a team of up to six players! For questions, contact the library at 603.763.5513 or at info@abbottlibrary.org.
| | | | |
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20th | 9:00 am - 2:00 pm | Sunapee United Methodist Church | | |
Join us for a Vendor Craft & Bake Sale full of creativity, community, and sweet treats! Saturday, September 20th at the Lake Sunapee United Methodist Church.
Want to be a vendor? Contact Cathi Terry at 603-863-7349 or cact@aol.com to reserve your spot!
And for all you talented bakers out there — Bake Sale Donations Needed!
Drop off your delicious goodies between 8–9 AM the morning of the event.
| | | | |
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21st | 1:00 pm / 1:45 pm / 2:30 pm | Sunapee Historical Society | | |
Visit with several residents of Lower Village Cemetery & learn about their lives.
Park in school lot, corner of Lower Main and North Road.
Suggested Donation: $15/person
Reservations Required: (603) 763-9872 or sunapeehistory@gmail.com
** If raining hard - Sunday, 28 September **
| | | | |
| |
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th | Noon - 9:00 pm | Sunapee Harbor | | SUNAPEE SUMMER SHAKEDOWN FESTIVAL | | |
Join us for a day of music, fun, and community at the Sunapee Summer Shakedown Festival, taking place on the deck and grounds near Tim’s Taco Trailer at 72 Main Street, Sunapee Harbor.
Live music from noon to 9 PM.
Special Game Yard for kids.
Beer and canned beverages available for purchase.
This is a free event—all are welcome! Bring your friends, family, and good vibes to celebrate the end of summer in Sunapee style.
| | |
12 to 2
Acoustic
Sammy Blanchette
(Ludlow VT)
Website
| | |
3 to 5
Acoustic
Nick Bredice
Instagram
| | |
6 to 9
BoomSoss
(Grateful Dead Theme)
Light Show
Paid for by
Prospect Hill Antiques
| | | | |
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4th | 6:00 - 7:30 pm | Sherburne Gym | | |
The Friends of the Abbott Library Community Square Dance is back with Caller David Millstone! All are welcome - no prior knowledge or experience needed.
Dancing is geared towards ages 8 and older. FREE
For information, please contact the library at 603-763-5513 or info@abbottlibrary.org.
| | | | |
| |
SUNAPEE CENTRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | | |
Congratulations!
This spring our students participated in the Fisher Cats Reading Challenge presented by Eversource. We are proud to announce that SCES was among the top five schools in the state with reading participation. Mrs. White, our Reading and Writing Specialist, accepted a $1,000 check on our behalf.
| |
S.O.A.R.Tickets
At SCES, we use the acronym S.O.A.R. to guide our actions: Stay safe, Own your actions, Always responsible, and Respect everyone.
During the first few days of school, students visited stations around the building to learn what it looks like to “SOAR” in different settings, such as the hallway, cafeteria, and playground.
When students are recognized for demonstrating one of the S.O.A.R. traits, they receive a ticket from a staff member describing the positive behavior. Students then bring their tickets to the office and add marbles to their grade-span jar, helping their class work toward a collective goal.
We also encourage students to take their tickets home and share the good news with their families as a wonderful way to celebrate positive choices together!
| |
Upcoming Events:
- Picture Day - Monday, Sept. 15
- Scholastic Book Fair - Sept. 29-Oct. 3
- Parent/Teacher Conferences - Monday, Nov. 10
| | | | |
| |
SEPTEMBER 2025 | Featured on WMUR - TV and NH Chronicle | | NH Chronicle is hosting this week from Sunapee Cruises as they celebrate 75 years on the water! Learn about the history, take in views and spot the three lighthouses on Lake Sunapee. Sightseeing and dinner cruises are also available. | | | | |
| |
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16th | 10:00 am | LSPA Center for Lake Studies | | NATURE EXPLORATION STORY TIME - MONARCHS AND MIGRATION | | Come join LSPA educators at the Center for Lake Studies to explore the natural world. Each Tuesday morning will be filled with hands on learning through sensory experiences, guided exploration, creative play, art, and music. LSPA’s story time is designed for young children and their caregivers. Come to one session or all - each program is organized around a different ecological theme. Come join the fun! This Tuesday morning we will be exploring animals that migrate and the amazing monarch butterfly! | | | | |
| |
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12th|7:00 - 9:00 PM | 9 Lower Main Street, Sunapee | | ROB DUQUETTE - SUNAPEE COFFEEHOUSE | | Multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter, composer, founder/leader of the band "duquette" Rob was a long time sideman during the 1990's on drums, xylophone, guitar, and vocals and a part of of the critically acclaimed jazz-folk-pop duo “Cactus Highway” during the 2000's. ("Amazing" - The Village Voice). In 2013, he was invited to play with Jonathan Edwards' touring band and accompanied that tour through 2016.ginal Rock Music from the Green Mountains of Vermont. | | | | |
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13th|5:00 - 8:00 PM | 72 Main Street | | Original Rock Music from the Green Mountains of Vermont. | | | | |
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20th| Starts at 3:00 PM | Flander's Stage in Sunapee Harbor | | |
Bruce Marshall’s music career spans five decades and the singer, songwriter, guitarist has been a full time musician his entire adult life. With an affinity early on for blues, rock and 60’s pop, he honed his chops in the gin mills of NE and put out his first record in ‘87 with Bruce Marshall and the Clue.
He went National with guitarist Toy Caldwell of the Marshall Tucker Band in ‘89, touring the US with Charlie Daniels, Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Outlaws. Bruce has won an ASCAP Songwriters award and represented NE in the International Blues Challenge in 2008 and 2010. He recently inked a recording and Publishing deal with the Verdict Music label with Sony distribution and released the Bruce Marshall Group’s “Vintage to Verdict” in 2023, his 8th CD.
The Bruce Marshall Group has been performing since 1991, his duo with James Montgomery has been together since 1992 and his Marshall Tucker tribute band The Shadow Riders has been out since 2018.
His songs have been recorded by Gary Lewis and the Playboys, Kenny Neal, Micah Willis, James Montgomery, Michael Allman and others.
Bruce continues to perform over 175 shows a year, both as solo act and bandleader. He’s currently in the studio working on his next Verdict Music label release.
| | | | |
| |
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21st | Noon - 7:00 pm | Sunapee Harbor | | PROST! OKTOBERFEST AT HOPTIMYSTIC BREWING | | Join us on Sunday, September 21st from 12–7 PM for a day full of German-inspired fun! Authentic German brats by Ramblin Man Provisions. Classic Oktoberfest-style games. Release of our once a year Moktoberfest beer. Throw on your lederhosen, grab your friends, and let’s raise a stein to fall at the lake! | | | | |
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th | 5:30 pm | The Livery in Sunapee Harbor | | |
Join friends, neighbors, and local supporters for a warm and welcoming evening at The Livery in Sunapee Harbor on Saturday, September 27th at 5:30 PM.
Our four-course Fall Harvest Dinner is a true celebration of community and collaboration. Prepared by local chefs and caterers using ingredients sourced from nearby farms, gardens, and vineyards, this Farm-to-Table experience is a reflection of the rich agricultural and culinary talent in our region.
More than just a meal, this is a gathering of hearts and hands—the only annual fundraiser hosted by Sunapee Heritage Alliance to support The Livery. Your presence helps sustain this beloved community space and furthers our mission to enrich Sunapee through the arts, education, and cultural programming.
Let’s come together to celebrate the season, support local, and strengthen the bonds that make Sunapee such a special place.
Reservations Required / $125 per person / Limit of 50 guests
| | | | |
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3rd | 5:30 pm | The Livery in Sunapee Harbor | | BENEFIT CONCERT FOR MARY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT | | |
LIVE at The Livery – A Rockin’ Night for a Great Cause!
Featuring Little Days with the incredible Bernie Barlow
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, community, and giving back! This benefit concert supports Mary’s Food for Thought, helping to nourish and uplift those in need — and you can be part of the magic!
VIP Meet & Greet | 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Come early to meet the band, enjoy some hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages sponsored by Chef Mary McDonald of Simple Goodness Catering, and snap a few photos!
Concert begins at 6:30 PM – and it’s going to be electric! Little Days and Bernie Barlow will bring the house down with an amazing live performance you won’t want to miss.All proceeds support Mary's Food for Thought – let’s come together to make a difference while having a blast!
Tickets $30 – available at the door or online | BYOB – Beer & Wine
| | | | |
| |
|
Mr. Kyler is hosting the first fall session of Teens' D&D on Friday, September 19th at 3:30 PM.
Sessions will run through the school year on the third Friday of each month. For more information, call or email the library at 603.763.5513 or info@abbottlibrary.org.
| |
Fall events are planned and ready to start back up.
Join Abbott Library Staff for Cribbage on Mondays (EVERY MONDAY) in the activities room from 1 - 3 PM.
For questions, please call or email the library at 603.763.5513 or info@abbottlibrary.org.
| |  | |
Estate Planning Basics: New Hampshire Estate Planning and Tax Considerations
September 20 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Attorneys from Sheehan Phinney, one of New Hampshire’s largest law firms, will present the basic elements of a New Hampshire estate plan and explain how Estate Planning and Probate work, as well as estate tax considerations in transfer of wealth. This interactive program will give you a chance to ask questions and get general answers (not specific legal advice).
| |
18th Century Cooking and Life with M. Allyson Szabo
September 25 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Join historical reenactor and author M. Allyson Szabo, creator of The Re-enactor’s Cookbook, for an engaging look at 18th-century cooking and daily life. Allyson will share insights into colonial living, and guests will enjoy a sampling of authentic colonial recipes. Allyson has brought history to life at notable sites including the Fort at No. 4 in Charlestown, NH: a mid-18th century stockade fortification, and Fort McClary in Kittery Point, ME.
Free and open to all! Part of the Center Meeting House/Newbury Library Speaker Series.
| | | |
One Card, Endless Possibilities for library card sign-up month!
Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month with us and
the American Library Association!
“One Card, Endless Possibilities,” is a reminder that libraries are for everyone—no matter your age, background, or goals. Whether you're diving into a new hobby, searching for your next great read, brushing up on tech skills, or helping your child succeed in school, it all starts with a library card.
Tracy Memorial Library provides three types of library cards (Adult, Teen and Youth) for residents of New London and offers several types of cards for households and individuals who are not considered residents of New London. Some of these non-resident cards require payment of a fee.
Any student (ages 5 and up) eligible to attend or any teacher who is employed at Kearsarge Regional School District qualifies for a FREE library card at Tracy Memorial Library. Being a resident of New London is NOT required.
Stop by the circulation desk to sign up today!
| | | |
Newport Rec Play Group Story Visit
Friday September 19, 2025
10:00 am - 11:00 am
We’ll be hanging out and reading stories at the Rec’s play group! Stop in and play and listen.
| |
Teen Activity: Writing Games
Tuesday September 23, 2025
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Ages 11-18. Play some writing games and practice your writing skills!
| | | | | |
NOTEWORTHY NEIGHBORLY EVENTS | | | | |
|
79’ and Holding by Mary S. Allen
Monday, September 15 | 6:30 PM | Whipple Hall, New London, NH
The Center for the Arts Lake Sunapee Region is proud to present 79’ and Holding, a witty and heartwarming play by Mary S. Allen, on Monday, September 15 at 6:30 PM at Whipple Hall in New London. This free community event, edited and directed by Gloria Allen, promises laughter, reflection, and recognition as audiences see themselves or their loved ones in each vignette. With humor, nostalgia, and unflinching honesty, 79’ and Holding takes a colorful look at the lives of senior citizens—exploring joy, love, fear, heartache, and the inevitable awareness of mortality. Rather than dwell, Allen leans into levity, poking fun at herself and inviting audiences to laugh out loud at life’s shared experiences. Center for the Arts
| | | |
|
Telluride at Dartmouth 2025 will be held Sep 17-21.
Six films straight from the acclaimed Colorado film festival come for special advance screenings at the Hopkins Center, representing the best in world cinema. The Telluride Film Festival, occurring each Labor Day weekend in Colorado, is considered one of the premier arts events in the country. Telluride at Dartmouth, now in its 38th year, brings films directly from Colorado for special advance screenings at the Hopkins Center. The HOP
| | | |
|
Skywatch with the NH Astronomical Society
Thursday, September 18, 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Cassey Brook Preserve, Wilmot
Gaze at the stars in the dark sky with experts at the ready. All equipment included. This event is free and open to all, but registration is limited. Please contact Sarah Burtnick for more information or to register at: sburtnick@ausbonsargent.org or by calling 603-526-6555
| | | |
|
EUREKA DAY by Jonathan Spector
Directed by Bill Coons October 2 - 19
2025 TONY AWARD-WINNING PLAY! Featuring: Gordon Clapp, Danielle Cohen, Jammie Patton, Jon Protas, and Stephanie Jeane.
The Eureka Day School in Berkeley, California, is a bastion of progressive ideals: representation, acceptance, social justice. In weekly meetings Eureka Day’s five board members develop and update policy to preserve this culture of inclusivity, reaching decisions only by consensus. But when a mumps outbreak threatens the Eureka community, facts become subjective and every solution divisive, leaving the school’s leadership to confront the central question of our time: How do you build consensus when no one can agree on truth? Shaker Bridge Theatre
| | | |
|
VINS (Vermont Institute of Natural Science) Owl Program
Saturday, October 11, 10 - 11:30 am | Red Barn
The WCA, Vermont Institution of Natural Science(VINS) and Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust will be bringing live owls to the Red Barn to teach us about owl calls and what they mean. All ages are welcome with an adult. This event is FREE and open to all, but registration is required and limited. For more information, or to register, email sburtnick@ausbosargent.org or call their office at 603-526-6555.
| | | |
|
A Paint & Sip with artist Patti Warren at the Newport Opera House
Tuesday, October 14th from 6:30PM-8:30PM
Join us for a fun-filled evening and unleash your inner-artist by creating a watercolor painting of Lake Sunapee’s historic and iconic Loon Island Lighthouse. What’s not to love about capturing one of Lake Sunapee’s most beloved landmarks in art?! Local artist and instructor, Patti Warren, will lead workshop participants in a step-by-step watercolor painting experience. Patti will explain, demonstrate and guide you through the completion of a beautiful painting of Lake Sunapee’s historic, Loon Island Lighthouse. All supplies will be provided. Event price includes one complimentary beverage ticket, a “behind the scenes” tour of the Newport Opera House (which will begin promptly at 6:00PM), and your painting! Learn More
| | | | | | |
| |
|
Do you recognize this spot?
This beautiful hidden gem in Sunapee is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful picnic with family. Tucked away and wonderfully secluded, it offers cool shade, the soothing sounds of the Sugar River, and stunning gardens lovingly maintained by the Sunapee Gardeners.
Think you know where it is? Let us know at info@projectsunapee.org!
| | |
Dewey Beach Gardens
Captured on the morning of Tuesday, September 9th, as the mist gently lifted from Lake Sunapee, the water was calm and the beach completely still.
The gardens are in full bloom—absolutely spectacular. A heartfelt thank you to the Sunapee Gardeners for their incredible work!
Dewey Beach is the perfect place to meet a friend for morning coffee or to enjoy a quiet moment of meditation or yoga by the lake.
Have a Sunapee gem to share?
We’d love to hear about it! Send us a note at info@projectsunapee.org.
| | | | |
| |
Follow "Happenings" for even more activities on tap to toast the end of the summer and welcome autumn. | | |
Project Sunapee’s Community Calendar
You may have noticed a new look and format to Sunapee’s Community Calendar. Our goal is to create a comprehensive, easy-to-navigate resource for all things happening in Sunapee.
If you're organizing a local event and would like it added to the calendar, please CLICK HERE to submit your details.
As we continue to enhance this community resource, we welcome your feedback and suggestions. Feel free to reach out to us at info@projectsunapee.org.
Together, let’s keep Sunapee informed and connected.
| | | | |
Wednesday’s email “SUNAPEE HAPPENINGS”
highlights a selection of events in our community each week.
For complete details on everything happening around the
Lake Sunapee area, check out the
| | |
Enjoying this newsletter? Forward to a friend!
They can sign up HERE
| | | | |
