Concord, NH, is about to spring to life with two exciting and inspiring festivals happening back-to-back at the end of March. From cinematic journeys into environmental advocacy to hands-on celebrations of American craftsmanship, these upcoming events are perfect for locals and visitors alike looking to connect with culture, creativity, and community.
Wild & Scenic® Film Festival Returns for Its 16th Year
📍Bank of NH Stage, 16 South Main Street, Concord, NH
On Friday, March 28, the New Hampshire Rivers Council brings one of the nation’s largest and most respected environmental film festivals to Concord’s Bank of New Hampshire Stage. The Wild & Scenic® Film Festival returns for its sixteenth consecutive year, promising a powerful evening of thought-provoking films, community spirit, and environmental inspiration.
Doors open at 5:00 PM, with a reception beginning at 5:30 PM and films starting promptly at 7:00 PM. The evening will include an array of short films from around the globe, celebrating the natural world and the people fighting to protect it. These cinematic stories serve as a rallying call—encouraging viewers to engage more deeply in conservation, climate action, and stewardship at the local level.
The event is being organized by the New Hampshire Rivers Council. Founded in 1993, it is the only statewide nonprofit organization devoted exclusively to the conservation and protection of New Hampshire’s rivers, streams, and watersheds. The Council advocates for ecologically sound river management and works to promote clean water, resilient ecosystems, and strong environmental policies.—the festival is more than just a film screening. It’s a community event complete with door prizes, local sponsor exhibits, and opportunities to connect with like-minded advocates. The Council uses the event to highlight its ongoing work in river protection and to welcome new supporters into its mission.
About the New Hampshire Rivers Council
Emerging from the grassroots New Hampshire Rivers Campaign of the 1980s, the New Hampshire Rivers Council played a pivotal role in the creation of the Rivers Management and Protection Program and helped establish landmark river corridor protections under the state’s Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act. Today, the Council engages in public education, local partnerships, and policy advocacy to ensure the long-term health of New Hampshire’s waterways. Through events like the Wild & Scenic® Film Festival, the Council continues to connect people to the rivers they love—and inspire them to protect these vital resources for future generations.
Admission Information
Ticket prices range from general admission ($25) to bundled packages that include one-year memberships to the Council. Members enjoy perks such as discounts on future events, including next year’s festival. Those unable to attend in person can take advantage of five days of video-on-demand access included with ticket purchase.
For questions, sponsorship info, or membership details, call (603) 796-2615 or visit nhrivers.org.
4th Annual Capital City Craft Festival
📍 Everett Arena, 15 Loudon Road, Concord, NH (Exit 14 off I-93)
The celebration continues over the weekend with the Capital City Craft Festival, taking place Saturday and Sunday, March 29–30, at the Everett Arena in Concord. Hosted by Castleberry Fairs & Festivals, this vibrant indoor event brings together over 125 artisan booths featuring handmade goods from across the Northeast.
Running 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 4 PM on Sunday, the festival offers something for everyone! Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift, want to spruce up your home for spring, or simply appreciating the talent of American craftspeople there is something here for everyone. There is a large variety of items from fine jewelry, woodwork, and original artwork to seasonal home décor and specialty foods. For example Scottish fudge, local honey, and fruit jellies!
Admission Information
This family-friendly event also emphasizes accessibility and convenience: Free parking, an affordable $10 admission (valid for both days). Children under 14 admitted free. The indoor venue also ensures that attendees can shop comfortably whether rain or shine.
About Castleberry Fairs & Festivals
Castleberry Fairs & Festivals was born in 1989 when artisans Chris and Terry Mullen were frustrated with the lack of quality and organization at local craft shows. What began as a stained-glass business called Castleberry Glass grew into a full-fledged family-run enterprise, with a mission to champion authentic handmade art and American craftsmanship.
Castleberry Fairs is now known throughout the Northeast for its high-quality, juried craft festivals that consistently draw large crowds and loyal shoppers. The organization is committed to curating events that support small businesses, highlight artisan skills, and foster community connection. By prioritizing marketing and customer experience, Castleberry continues to create meaningful opportunities for artists while offering memorable experiences for visitors.
For more information, artisan previews, and a $2 discount coupon, visit castleberryfairs.com.
Don’t Miss This Inspiring Weekend in Concord
Whether you’re drawn to impactful storytelling or handmade artistry, this upcoming weekend offers a memorable experience for all. Come support environmental activism at the Wild & Scenic® Film Festival, and then celebrate creativity and craftsmanship at the Capital City Craft Festival. Two events, one weekend—and endless ways to be inspired!
