Spring Activities in the Lake Sunapee Region
The Lake Sunapee region in New Hampshire offers year round attractions, natural beauty, and local charm. Winter has an array of fun activities such as skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing at Mount Sunapee Resort. Summer is a time to experience all Lake Sunapee has to offer from camping and boating on Lake Sunapee, to picnics and farmers markets. Fall has scenic drives of colorful trees and festive events to celebrate the cozy season. Spring brings in a welcome relief from the Winter blues with u-pick flower farms, maple syrup tours, and events in the Spring. Every season offers a unique experience for locals and travelers in the Lake Sunapee region.
March
Annual Cardboard Sled Race
How well can you build a sled? If you are up for a challenge, then attend the annual Mount Sunapee cardboard sled race where contestants compete on original sleds made out of only cardboard, tape, paint, and wax. MountSunapee.com
- Sunday, March 30, 2025
- Awards will be given for Best Design, Best Crash, Fastest Time, and Judges’ Choice. Registration and sled inspection are scheduled from 8:00 AM to 8:45 AM in front of Spruce Lodge, with the competition starting at 9:00 AM.
Maple Sugar Tours – Ben’s Sugar Shack
Learn how pure Maple Syrup is made on a tour at Ben’s Sugar Shack. See the sugaring process up close and become inspired by their award winning Maple Syrup and free samples. There are a variety of products they sell from honey to sauces which are great for gift-giving or a new recipe. This event is a great bonding experience for the family that’s fun for all ages. The tours are free and typically take place in March, check their website for details. https://bensmaplesyrup.com/pages/maple-tours-2022
April
The Livery
The Livery was originally built as a horse stable for the Harbor House Hotel, which served visitors arriving in Sunapee by train and steamboat and provided horses and carriages. It is the last large commercial building from Sunapee’s steamboat era. Today, The Livery hosts performances, music, dinners, and art shows. They have special events around the holidays – even on St. Patrick’s Day. Their tickets sell out quickly, so make sure to get your tickets early.
Easter Brunch and Dinner Options:
The Old Courthouse, Newport
The Old Courthouse, established in 2004, has become a beloved part of the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee dining scene. It has received multiple awards including People’s Choice and Best of NH for Historic Dining in 2018. Located in the heart of Newport’s Downtown Historic District, the Federalist-era building dates back to 1826 and originally served as the district courthouse for 25 years. It offers an elegant dining room and full-service bar, perfect for a memorable meal. It’s recommended to check with them closer to Easter for special brunch or dinner offerings.
http://eatatthecourthouse.com/
Sunapee Cruise Brunch Charter
The Sunapee Cruise Brunch Charter offers a unique dining experience on a scenic boat ride. Enjoy a delicious brunch while taking in beautiful views of Lake Sunapee. Confirm availability and schedule as Easter approaches.
Easter Egg Hunts
Sunapee Recreation Department’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Traditionally held at Sunapee Harbor’s Ben Mere Park for children aged 10 and under. In previous years, over 1,200 eggs have been hidden.
https://www.town.sunapee.nh.us/
New London Historical Society’s Easter Egg Hunt
Historically hosted on Lake Sunapee Road in New London for children aged 10 and under.
Annual Slushcup
The Mount Sunapee Annual Slushcup is an event that you don’t want to miss. It’s one of the most popular events in the Lake Sunapee area and has locals attending every year. Come and watch as 200 skiers and snowboarders try to skim across a pond – it’s either sink or skim! You better hope you skim since the pond is only a whopping 36 degrees. Prizes are awarded for best splash, best skim, and best costume.
- Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, New Hampshire.
- The event will begin at 12:00 PM and is free to participate in. Pre-registration for the first 100 participants will open online on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
- An additional 50 spots will be available on the day of the event, on a first-come, first-served basis, starting at 10:00 AM at the Spruce Lodge. The event will feature a DJ, awards, and entertainment throughout the day.
May
U-Pick Flower Farms
April showers bring May flowers. There is no better way to cure those winter blues by picking Tulips and spring flowers at a u-pick flower farm in the Lake Sunapee region. It’s perfect for photography lovers and for families that have been cooped up during the winter. U-pick availability can vary based on the season and bloom times, so it’s recommended to contact the farm or visit their website for updates before planning your visit.
Spring Ledge Farm, New London, NH
Located in New London, Spring Ledge Farm provides a pick your own flower field, allowing you to create personalized bouquets from a variety of blooms. They also offer a farm stand with fresh produce and other local goods.
https://www.springledgefarm.com/cut-flowers
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens, Newbury NH
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens offers beautiful gardens and walking trails that are perfect for a Spring walk. While it’s not a traditional botanical garden, it provides a beautiful experience for plant and nature lovers.
Annual 5k Black Fly Blitz
There is no better way to get ready for those summer beach days than participating in the Annual 5k Black Fly Blitz. Whether you decide to run or walk, you can enjoy the race in scenic Wilmot. Be sure to stay after the race for music, games, and much more. You can register at WilmotWCA.org
- Traditionally held on Memorial Day, which falls on Monday, May 26, 2025