Summer Activities in the Lake Sunapee Region
The Lake Sunapee region in New Hampshire is a year-round destination filled with natural beauty, unique outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. Summer is a time for sandy toes, fresh produce from farmers’ markets, lakeside picnics, and kayaking.
In winter, visitors can enjoy festive holiday events, cozy coffee shops, skiing, and ice skating at Mount Sunapee Resort. Spring is a season of u-pick flower farms, maple syrup tours, and seasonal events.
No matter the time of year, the Lake Sunapee region offers something special for both locals and travelers.
June
Farmers Markets
Kick off the Summer with fresh produce in June at the local farmers market. The Sunapee Farmers Market is a vibrant hub for fresh, locally sourced products. Operating every Saturday from May 24 through August 30th, 2025, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m., the market is located at Ben Mere Park in Sunapee Harbor. Visitors can explore a diverse selection of goods, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked items, and crafts. The market also features free children’s activities each week, making it a fun family-friendly outing. For more information and a list of vendors, check out the Sunapee Farmers Market website.
Lobster and Clambake
What’s a better way to kick off the summer than with fresh seafood? If you have a hankering for seafood, you will definitely get your fill at Mount Sunapee’s clambake. Featuring little neck clams, lobster, corn on the cob, potatoes, corn bread, and salad.
Also includes cocktail hour with appetizers. End the evening with a chairlift ride to the summit and, if you time it right, you might even get to watch the sunset as you ride up Mt. Sunapee. For prices and times check out: MountSunapee.com/SummitDinners
Antique & Motor Vehicle Show
If you like cars and motorcycles, then you don’t want to miss this antique show. The Antique & Motor Vehicle Show features cars, hot rods, trucks, and motorcycles. Trophies will be presented for the favorites in each class.
There are also a variety of vendors and a motorcycle keg rolling contest that will have you cheering for your favorite contestants. You also get a free Aerial Sky Ride ticket when you pay admission for the show. For ticket costs, dates, and more details check out: SunapeeLions.com
Aerial Sky Ride
If you are looking for a romantic date night or some peace to yourself, check out the aerial sky ride at Mount Sunapee most weekends throughout the summer. You can connect with nature while enjoying the idyllic summer views and drinking some wine as you ride the chairlift. For more information go to MountSunapee.com: MountSunapee.com/Skyrides
Annual Strawberry Festival
Follow your sweet tooth to the Annual Strawberry Festival in New London, a festival that offers something for everyone and is great for the whole family. Check out the variety of vendors, music, art, kids games, and food.
Don’t leave this festival without trying one of the delicious homemade strawberry desserts. Listen to the master gardener explain how to grow your own strawberries or take a horse and buggy ride. Take the kids to see the alpaca, and go to the General Store for some penny candy. For more information: LakeSunapeeRegionChamber.com/events
July
4th Of July Celebration
One of the best fireworks shows is at Lake Sunapee Harbor. Come join the 4th of July celebration that offers a variety of activities for the family.
The Sunapee Harbor fireworks are usually a day or two before the 4th so check out the events calendar page for the date.
Participate in the Watermelon Race at Burkehaven Field. At dusk, watch fireworks from Lake Sunapee Harbor and, on Saturday, check out the Independence Day parade. After the parade, head over to Veteran’s Field to celebrate Firemen’s Day for a fun day of games, inflatables, crafts, and food.
Berry Picking
Bartlett’s Blueberry Farm: Mark your calendars, you don’t want to miss some of the region’s best blueberries. Summer just wouldn’t be the same without homemade blueberry pie. Bartlett’s Blueberry Farm is located in Newport, just a short drive from Lake Sunapee. The second-generation family farm has been a local favorite since 1985. Visitors can enjoy picking blueberries while taking in scenic views of Mount Sunapee. It’s a fun family event everyone can enjoy and even solo travelers looking for a snack. Picking season for blueberries begins mid July through August, so be sure to check their website for updates.
https://www.bartlettsblueberryfarm.com/pick-your-own
Bascom Road Blueberry Farm: Situated in Newport, this family-owned farm offers a relaxed atmosphere for picking delicious blueberries. Voted #1 in the Top 5 Best Berry Picking Spots in New Hampshire by WMUR’s Viewers’ Choice in 2024, it’s a must-visit for berry enthusiasts. The farm also features a shop with fresh produce, farm-fresh eggs, cheeses, and homemade jams. For more details on hours and U-Pick availability, visit their website for more information.
https://bascomroadblueberryfarm.com/
August
Outdoor Movies
During the summer months, the community gathers for free outdoor movie nights under the stars. Hosted by Project Sunapee, these events take place at the Ben Mere Bandstand in Sunapee Harbor on Thursday evenings at sunset. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and snacks to enjoy family-friendly films in a lakeside setting. The 2025 schedule includes screenings on August 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. For more details, visit Project Sunapee’s website. https://projectsunapee.org/movie-night/
Annual Craftsmen’s Fair
This event, recognized as the oldest continuous craft fair in the country, will feature over 350 craftspeople from across the nation showcasing their work. Attendees can enjoy craft demonstrations, participate in workshops suitable for all ages, and create their own pieces under the guidance of master craftsmen. For nine days starting in the first week of August, over 350 craftspeople from all over the country showcase their work. Watch craft demonstrations, and participate in workshops (great for all ages) where you can make your own piece of craft in a workshop with a master craftsman.
The fair is located at the Mount Sunapee Resort Adventure Park, featuring a canopy zip line, a treetop obstacle course, miniature golf and more.
Take a relaxing stroll through the Sculpture Garden. There are a variety of performances including: musical, puppet show, and even a magic show. For more information: www.NHCrafts.org/craftsmens-fair
Annual Lake Sunapee Sailing Day
This is not your typical sailing day. Come and play your hand in the Poker Cruise. You will start at Lake Sunapee harbor, and from there, you will follow the map to four points on the lake, where you will be given playing cards at each point (from a power boat decorated with balloons). All sailboats and cruisers are welcome.
The Lake Sunapee Cruising Fleet is a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to the sport of sailboat racing on Lake Sunapee.
For more information: visit www.LSCF.us
Kayaking
Lake Sunapee’s clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal destination for kayaking enthusiasts. Several local businesses provide kayak rentals and services to help you explore the lake. The Sunapee Trading Post is located in Newbury, and they offer kayak and paddleboard rentals, along with other outdoor gear. https://www.sunapeetradingpost.com/
Picnic at The Beach
New Hampshire boasts numerous picturesque locations perfect for a summer picnic. Here are some notable spots:
Mount Sunapee State Park: Beyond its beach and boating facilities, the park offers designated picnic areas equipped with tables and grills. The lush surroundings and lake views create a serene picnic environment.
Dewey Beach is managed by the Town of Sunapee, it offers swimming, picnicking, and boat rentals. It’s a great place to enjoy the lake and there are lifeguards on duty.
Golf
Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lake Sunapee Region, Newport Golf Club boasts a championship 18-hole course that has been a cornerstone of the community for over 70 years. Designed to accommodate golfers of all skill levels. The club’s facilities include a welcoming snack bar, a comfortable lounge, and a versatile banquet hall capable of hosting events for up to 200 guests. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely game or planning a large gathering, Newport Golf Club offers a serene environment for a game of golf.
Situated in Grantham, Eastman Golf Links is a 18-hole golf course designed by Geoffrey Cornish. The course is certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, reflecting its dedication to preserving the natural habitat. Golfers of all ages and abilities are welcomed. The course and driving range are open to the public seven days a week, inviting both members and visitors to enjoy its unique experience and breathtaking scenery.
Outdoor Tennis
Enjoy 3 courts on the grounds of a quaint New England Inn.
Available by reservation Monday through Friday with limited availability on weekends. Enjoy great views of Mount Sunapee from this vantage point which is surrounded by pretty gardens and manicured lawns. Friendly Inn staff can assist you with up to 12 racquets, at no charge, if you forgot your racquet! Various sizes available from child to adult.
Dexter’s Inn
Innkeepers Penny and John Augustine
258 Stagecoach Road, Sunapee, NH 03782 USA
Mailing Address: PO Box 703
Phone: 603-763-5571 Toll Free: 800-232-5571
Email: dexters@tds.net
Web site: www.dextersnh.com
Horseback Riding
Morgan Horse Farm: Experience the joy of horseback riding at Granite Rose Morgans, based in Bradford, New Hampshire. Offering lessons and guided trail rides throughout all four seasons, riders can enjoy the beauty of New Hampshire’s scenic back country roads and wooded trails.
Trail rides are available for small groups and require a minimum of ten hours of prior riding experience to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. Whether you’re looking to refine your riding skills or embark on a peaceful trek through nature, Granite Rose Morgans provides a welcoming and professional equestrian experience.
For more details or to book a ride, visit the website for more details.
Granite Rose Morgans
Bradford, NH 03221
603-938-5505
www.graniterosemorgans.com
Skeet Shooting
Looking for an exciting outdoor activity? Test your skills with a round of skeet shooting at Rody’s Gun Shop in Newport. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or trying it for the first time, skeet shooting is a fun way to enjoy time with family and friends.
Hours of operation are to be announced, so be sure to check in advance for availability.
Please book this activity at :
Rody’s Gun Shop
Sunapee Street, Newport, NH
(603) 863-3356