7 Christmas Towns In New Hampshire That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
By Ken MacGray|Published November 03, 2023
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Ken MacGray
Author
Hey! I'm a freelance writer and guidebook author. I've authored "New Hampshire's 52 With A View - A Hiker's Guide", serve as editor of Appalachian Mountain Club's "Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide", and and am co-editor of the "White Mountain Guide", also for AMC. I'm currently beginning work on the 6th Edition of AMC's Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide, which will be published in 2025. I live in southern New Hampshire and can usually be found wandering throughout the state's mountains and forests.
One of the great things I love about living here in New Hampshire is that we get to experience all four seasons. Sometimes they all happen in the same week! Usually though, there’s enough time to experience what makes each of these times of the year great. Winters are often unpredictable but you can always count on cold weather, short daylight, and of course, plenty of snowfall. The Granite State’s communities take on a different character during winter and here are some of the best Christmas towns in New Hampshire to visit.
As one of the state's earliest settlements, it's probably safe to assume that Portsmouth was also one of the first towns in the state to celebrate Christmas. There's nothing NOT to love about this historic seaport, which is celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2023.
This year-round destination in the Mt. Washington Valley has plenty to offer no matter your interest. In winter it becomes a mecca for skiers looking to hit the slopes of Cranmore Mountain. If you don't want to be in the cold, there are plenty of spots downtown to grab a cup of hot chocolate and stay warm.
Lyme is a sleepy village in the upper Connecticut Valley region, an area known for its natural beauty. And it becomes pretty enchanting around the holidays. You can make Lyme one of several destinations in the Upper Valley on a scenic road trip through the region.
The Capital City and its downtown lined with ships and restaurants make for a perfect holiday destination. And every year you'll find the city's holiday tree displayed in front of the State House.
Journey to the southwesternmost city in the state during winter and you'll be greeted with snowy scenes of holiday decorations. Oprah loves it too! Keene's annual winter festival takes place after the holidays but it's worth coming back for.
While not technically a town, this section of Carroll makes it onto this list due to its wealth of outdoor winter fun. See the Omni Mount Washington Resort decked out in its holiday finest, do a little cross-country skiing, or just marvel at the snow-capped mountains.
Long known for its historic manufacturing past, Exeter took advantage of its location where the Exeter River becomes the Squamscott River to grow into a booming mill town. These days, the town welcomes visitors to walk its downtown and explore its numerous shops.
