Concord NH: Cultural Capital

There is a renaissance of sorts happening in Concord, NH. It seems that every few months there is a new shop or restaurant opening on Main Street. However, in the midst of the excitement of Concord’s reawakening, the budding arts scene is the spark. Concord has all the amenities to meet the needs of connoisseurs and creators of art, music, and theatre alike. 

For theatregoers, Concord is home to two auditoriums. The Capitol Center for the Arts and the Concord City Auditorium. Catch a theatrical production, dance performance, or comedy show at the Capital Center for the Arts, whose show offerings are varied but always well priced. The Auditorium also offers a variety of productions, many of which are put on by gifted local arts groups. And a third venue, The Bank of NH Stage, just opened, with another planned for the coming years.

While in town, catch a movie at Concord’s very own non-profit art house cinema, Red River Theaters. In addition to featuring independent films, Red River Theaters often sponsors costume parties and film themed events. The facilities include the Indie Café that features locally made wine, beer, sandwiches, and candies. 

The live music scene really heats up during the summer. In June, Market Days, a four-day long street festival, always features several live bands- not to mention the great artwork and food that can be found. 

Every weekend during the summer right in Bicentennial Square there is a weekly arts market that features local artisan’s crafts and jewelry. Similarly, during the wintertime “Concord Handmade” is a holiday pop up store that offers work from local artists and are perfect for gifts. 

For amateur and seasoned artists alike, Concord has specialty shops where you can find high quality materials from locally owned vendors. Kimball Jenkins School of Art also offers classes all ages and for any medium, including fashion design.  There is also a gallery on the Kimball Jenkins Estate that features fine art from around the state.  

With the vital arts scene, Concord, New Hampshire has the charm of a quintessential New England town with all the cultural assets of a city and is a must stop for any person visiting the Granite State.