an inside look
12 Booksfor underthetree
24 Abusyfew weeksahead
Wegiveyouatasteofallthat’sto comewithacollectionoflistings forholidayseasonal happeningsandtheatrical performances.
29 Importanceof shoppinglocal
2023 HOLIDAY GUIDE
Holiday Gift Guide is published annually. Copyright 2023 by Newspapers of New England. All rights reserved.
THE CONCORD MONITOR
Monitor Publishing, PO Box 1177 Concord, NH 03302-1177
Advertising Information: 603-369-3212 ads@cmonitor.com
Editorial comments: 603-369-3324, features@cmonitor.com
STAFF
Ledger-Transcript Publisher: Heather McKernan
Monitor Publisher: Steve Leone Director of Sales & Marketing: Sean McKenna Editors: Allie Ginwala, Sarah Pearson, Hannah Sampadian
MONADNOCK LEDGER-TRANSCRIPT PO Box 36
Peterborough, NH 03458 Information: 603-924-7172 ads@ledgertranscript.com news@ledgertranscript.com
Open 7 days a week, serving food and beverage all day and night.
Open till 9pm Sunday through Thursday, and 11pm on weekends.
Coopershill will be open regular hours on Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas Eve, and till 1am on New Year’s Eve.
COFFEE
Hot cocoa and coffee with peppermint vodka - peppermint extract and vodka, Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, whipped cream and a candy cane.
WINTER HARVEST MEDLEY
Roasted brussels sprouts, cranberries, beets, and sweet potatoes with whiskey ginger glaze, topped with candied pecans, goat cheese and pickled red onions.
MOCHA
Handmade for the holidays
Curated pop-up shops only here for a limited time
By ALLIE GINWALA Concord Monitor
Ifyou’relookingtoaddaunique touchtoyourholidaygiftingthis year,looknofurtherthanConcord’slocalartistsandcrafters. Threeartsmarketswillbebackin Concordthisyear,plusonein Novemberifyouwanttogetinto theholidayspiritevenearlier.Head toGrapponeMazda(134ManchesterSt.,Concord)onFriday,Nov. 24,Saturday,Nov.25,andSunday, Nov.26from11a.m.to4p.m.fora pop-upmarketfeaturingartists fromtheConcordArtsMarket.Up to10artistswillbepresenteach day.
Concord Handmade
When:OpenthroughDecember 29.Concordhours:MondaytoSaturday,10a.m.to6p.m.,Sunday,11 a.m.to4p.m.Goffstownhours:
COURTESY OF CONCORD ARTS MARKET
Decorative gourds have been transformed into ornaments by CiacciaArt.
Winter Giftopolis at Midnight Merriment
When:Friday,Dec.1,5to11 p.m.
Where:Intheatriumat7Eagle Square,Concord
TuesdaytoSunday9a.m.to4p.m., closedMondays.
Where:InsidebothPenumbralocations(10N.StateSt.inConcord and24MainSt.inGoffstown)
What:ConcordHandmadeartists willbefeaturedinbothPenumbra locationsthisyear.Thehandmade goodswillbespreadthroughout bothshops,eachwithanamesign thatincludesalinktotheartist’s websiteorsocialmedia.24artists returnedfrompreviouspop-ups, with22newartistsjoiningthisyear foratotalof46.
What:Shopforhandmadecrafts andlocalartfrom30artists,includingBiziBodiBoutique,BL. BatchelderArt,BMcCormickART, CarlCooleyPhoto,CathiiLaPierre Art,CedarHouseArts,CiacciaArt, CoshLLC,CreatedByAdrienne, DancingRoseDesigns,Erica’s HandcraftedJewelry,JackieHanson Art,JLivinLaVidaLoca,K.Dowling Designs,KittyStoykovichDesigns, KnittingMetal,MariaDeVito PalmerDesignsLLC,MarkCarrier, Megcrafted,MyDarlingThreads, PostageStampSoapCompany, SewingNerdStudios,ShireSkincare,SunAboveWater,Sunshine DustCo,SweetBirchStudios,The Place,TwistofFatePottery,Vivian Rosalee,WildIrisHandcrafts,Wolf MoonStainedGlass
Holiday Arts Market at Kimball Jenkins School of Art
When:Saturday,Dec.2,10a.m. to3p.m.
Where:266NorthMainStreet,
HOLIDAY GIFT SETS
Candle made locally in Concord by Cosh Factory.
COURTESY OF CONCORD HANDMADE
Living plants not your thing? Try a crocheted one.
Concord.Thereisasmallparking lot,buton-streetparkingisrecommended
What:Giveyourlovedonesthe giftofarts,craftsandgoodsthis year.Enjoytheworkof28localarts, includingAuntiesCustomCrafts, by.arlenepottery,ByJeeni.com,Calcite&Comfrey,CarlCooleyPhoto, CatherineHill,CathiiLaPierreArt, CedarHouseArts,DancingRose Designs,DobroNewEngland,ELM
ArtStudio,GraniteFireflyCandle Company,HoffmanHausCreations,JaneLapolla,JLivinLaVidaLoca,JoolieJoolery,Kitty StoykovichDesigns,Miss Catherine’sThreads,Paintingwith Kindness,PostageStampSoap Company,SeamstoFit,Sewing NerdStudios,SweetBirchStudios, TaylorMadeCeramics,ThePlace, TookyBeading,WarmNFuzziesby Amy,WolfMoonStainedGlass
Make
Sweet IMpreSSIon
JoolieJoolery will be available at the Concord Arts Market at Kimball Jenkins. Granite State Candy Shoppe features a wide variety of
Jewelry is on display at the holiday pop-up at Penumbra in Concord.
Tree Ornaments
Starting at $18.00*
Holiday Sale!
Ornaments are available in lots of patterns includeing berry vine, Pennsylvania, deer, poinsettia, and snowman
Chowder Bowls
Tall Santas
Starting at $57.50*
Our beautifully hand decorated tall santas will bring a smile to anyone’s face when they receive it as a gift! This piece would look beautiful sitting on a tabletop or fireplace mantle.
Medium (2 Qt) Bakers
Starting at $32.00*
Starting at $21.50* Each
Muffin Pans
Starting at $53.50*
Pie Plates
Owner is retiring, scan QR code for more info
Starting at $35.00*
Our Pie Plates are a generous 1-3/4” deep and as for baking, we’ve found that fruit pies baked in our plates are superb, a tribute to even heating.
Standard Muffin recipes yield one dozen regular size muffins or will make six big ones in our Muffin Pan.
Our two-quart baker is a versatile pot. Recipes include Irish Soda Bread, Poppy Seed Cake, Scalloped Tomatoes, and Holiday Fudge.
Our chowder bowls hold 2 cups and are just the best for keeping chowder hot or fixing cereal in the microwave
Salsa Bowls
Starting at $25.50*
Each Salsa Bowl holds a generous 3-cups, the flat bottom and wide opening make this dish ideal for scooping salsa or dip with a chip.
Oil Lamp
Starting at $53.50*
Our oil lamps have been lighting the way for more than 20 years. They provode a reliable source of light during power outages and are a welcome addition year round at home or camp.
Dinnerware (from front)
Dinner Mug Starting at $25.00*
Cereal Bowl Starting at $17.00*
Lunch Plate Starting at $22.00*
Dinner Plate Starting at $30.00*
Salmon Falls tableware is wonderfully collectible. Although the individuality of hand decorated patterns and the special quality of salt glaze may lend to slight differences in finished pieces, we make every effort to match tableware as closely as possible when we ship. We know you will be pleased. All tableware pieces are safe in the microwave and dishwasher.
Shopping from the source
NOVEMBER 24
■ TheYMCA’sannualHoliday ArtsMarketwillhaveavarietyof handmadearts,crafts,andfood.All itemshavebeenhandmadeorhandcraftedbymembersandstaffmembersattheAllardCenter,andallof theproceedswillbenefititsannual campaign.SalerunsthroughDec. 22.AllardCenter,116Goffstown BackRoad,Goffstown.
NOVEMBER 25
■ MilfordHolidayCraftFairGoes tobenefitVeterans.Santaandthe Grinchwillbetheretakingfreepicturesatthisfreeevent.Plentyof craftersandvendorstoshop.MilfordVFW,MontVernonStreet, Milford.11a.m.to4p.m.
■ MascomaHolidayCraftFairin WestCanaanwillhaveabout100 craftersandvendorssetupatthe highschoolandneighboringIndian RiverMiddleSchool.Foodavailable forpurchase.MascomaValleyRegionalHighSchool,27RoyalRoad.
her a variety of ornaments that she and her daughter
sold during a craft fair at Mascoma Valley Regional High School in 2022. The fair will return this year on Nov. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mascoma Valley Regional High School and Indian River Middle School.
DRIEHAUS
Pam Geason, left, of Etna, laughs as Cheryl Fogwill, of Newbury, shows
Stacy Fogwill
9a.m.to3p.m.Info:603-5237712.
■ KeeneHolidayCraftShowwith pottery,artwork,glassware,floral arrangementsanddesigns,jewelry, photography,foodproducts,knitting,andmore.KeeneHighSchool, 43ArchSt.,Keene.9a.m.to3p.m. Info:keenecraftshow.com
■ ChristmasCraftFairattheNew HamptonCommunityChurch,14 ChurchLane,NewHampton.9a.m. to2p.m.
DECEMBER 1
■ ContoocookArtisansHoliday CraftFairwillbeheldDec.1to3 Thisjuriedfineartsandcraftsfair featuresmorethan30artisansand withlocallymadeitemsincluding giftsforthehome,bakedgoods, maplesugarandhoney,baskets, holidayitems,toys,woodenitems, jewelry,leatheritems,specialty paperandbooks,pottery,photography,soaps,folkart,beadwork, quiltsandmuchmore.American LegionPost81/E.R.Montgomery EventCenter,169BoundTreeRoad inHopkinton.Friday,10a.m.to7 p.m.,Saturdayfrom10a.m.to5 p.m.,andSundayfrom10a.m.to2 p.m.Info:contoocookartisansnh@ gmail.com.
DECEMBER 2
■ HolidayCraftFairhostedbythe FirstChurchofWebster.Webster TownHall,945BattleSt.,Webster. 9a.m.to3p.m.
■ 42ndAnnualHolidayCraftFair organizedbyJaffreyParksand Recreation.Morethan50vendors andaSantaappearance.Rindge MemorialSchool,58SchoolSt., Rindge.8a.m.to2p.m.
■ HillsboroughCommunity CenterFestivalofTreespluscraft fair.Winafullydecorated ChristmasTree.$5eachorfivefor $20.Hillsboro-DeeringHigh School,12HillcatDrive,Hillsborough.10a.m.to2p.m. hccnh.org/trees
■ HolidayFairwithuniquegiftsin photography,basketry,leather,pottery,weavingandmoreonDec.2 and3.GraniteMillBuilding,69 MainSt.,Harrisville.10a.m.to4 p.m.
■ KnitWitsCraftFairtosupport thecommunitycenter.WhiteBirch Center,51HallSt.,Henniker.9a.m. to2p.m.
■ ECShostsitsannualHoliday CraftandVendorFair.EpsomCentralSchool,282BlackHallRoad, Epsom.10a.m.to4p.m.
■ CommunityCraftFairwith30 to40craftersandsmallbusiness
owners.REQ,1015CandiaRoad, Manchester.10a.m.to2p.m.Info: tdagata@gmail.com
■ WinterCraftFairhostedbythe PTO.Don’tmisstheScholastic BookFairinthelibrary.MalboroughSchool,41FitchCourt,Malborough.9a.m.to1p.m.Info:malboroughpto@gmail.com
■ BoosterClubHolidayCraft& VendorFairforProspectMountain. ProspectMountainHighSchool, 242SuncookValleyRoad,Alton.9 a.m.to2p.m.
■ HollyDayFairwithmorethan 65craftvendors,bakedgoods,basketsandmore.BishopGuertinHigh School,106AlmontSt.,Nashua.8 a.m.to2p.m.
DECEMBER 9
■ HolidayCraftFairwithcrafters andartists,bakedgoods,basketraffles,freetake-your-ownpictures withSantaandfreefacepainting. CamptonElementarySchool,1110 Route175,Campton.9a.m.to3 p.m.Info:cespto@pemibaker.org
■ BringontheHolidaysCraftand VendorFairwillbeheldtwodays, Dec.9and10.MerrimackValley RailroadFunctionHall,Northfield. 10a.m.to3p.m.
■ BishopBradyCraftFairwith proceedsgoingtoHabitatforHu-
manity.BishopBradyHighSchool, 25ColumbusAve.,Concord.9a.m. to2p.m.
■ WinterWonderlandcraft marketandpsychicfair.Hooksett AmericanLegion,5RiversideSt., Hooksett.11a.m.to4p.m.
HollyJollyCraftFair.DoubleTree byHiltonNashuaHotel,2Somerset Parkway,Nashua.9a.m.to3p.m. Info:(603)387-1510
DECEMBER 16
■ HolidayCraftFairwithcrafts, food,jewelry,homedecorand more.EaglesWingBingoHall,10 SpruceSt.,Nashua.10a.m.to2:30 p.m.
■ ManchesterHolidayCraftFair. FreepictureswithSantaandthe Grinch.Plentyofcraftersandvendorstoshop.ClubCanadian,128S. MainSt.,Manchester.11a.m.to4 p.m.
JANUARY 6
■ WinterArtsandCraftsFairwith proceedsgoingtoWarnerConnects.ContoocookAmericanLegionPost81,169BoundTreeRoad, Hopkinton.9a.m.to3p.m.
Formoreholidayfairsandevents visitconcordmonitor.com/calendar orledgertranscript.com/calendar.
Gift a glass of good cheer
Celebrate with a bottle of bubbly or enjoy your roast with a
By EMMA STETSON For the Monitor
Getreadytoeat,drink,andbe merry…theholidaysarehere!Itis thebusiesttimeofyearatWineon Mineandrightfullyso.Winemakes awonderfulgiftandistheperfect additiontotheholidaytable.So whichwinesareworthgifting? Whatshouldyoubringtogowith dinner?I’mbreakingdownallofthe tipsandtricksforgiftingwinethis season.
“I don’t know what they like to drink”
Whatdoyoudowhenyouknow therecipientwouldloveabottleof wine,butyou’renotsurewhatstyle theyenjoy?Igetaskedthisallthe time.Mytip:Goforsparkling.A bottleofbubblesisfestiveandmost
Wine on Main owner Emma Stetson looks over her wares
peopleenjoyit.Evenifit’snotthe receiver’stopchoice,it’salways helpfultohaveasparklingwineon hand.They’llbegratefultoyouthe nexttimethere’sacallforcelebrationorsomeonedropsbyunexpectedly.
ThereareseveralbeautifulbubbliesatWineonMain,butIalways recommendtheHuberSparkling White($21.99).CraftedinAustria withanelegantsnowflakeonthe label,itembracestheseasonal theme.Ialsosuggestourrose-gold champagnestoppertogowithitif youwanttoupgradeyourgift ($14).
“Help! I’m shopping for a wine connoisseur”
Whilepremiumwinescanbe foundallaroundtheworld,IrecommendabottleofCabernetSauvignonfromoneofCalifornia’spremiumwineregionslikeNapa, Sonoma,PasoRobles,orAnderson Valley.
ToptierCabernetSauvignoncan certainlybenefitfrombottleage, butit’snotabsolutelynecessary. Mostaremadeinanewworld,juicy stylethatwillstilltasteoutstanding wheneveritisthattherecipient pullsthecork.Agejustenhancesit. AsmuchasIlovehigh-endbot-
Even if it’s not the receiver’s top choice, it’s always helpful to have a sparkling wine on hand. They’ll be grateful to you the next time there’sa call for celebration or someone drops by unexpectedly.
tleslikeBrunelloandBarolofrom Italy,thosedefinitelyneedtimein thebottlebeforetheybecomeexpressive.Anew-worldwineensures thatthebeneficiarywillbeblown awaywhenevertheychoosetoopen thewine.
Furthermore,CaliforniaCabernet Sauvignonsareeasilyidentified. Whileeventhemostenthusiastic wine-drinkermaynotrecognize premiumbottlesfrommoreobscureregionsinFrance,chancesare thatmostconnoisseurshavehad theopportunitytotastedelicious CaliforniaCabernetSauvignon,and maybeevenbeentheresinceit’sa domesticflight.
I’mreallyenjoyingoneofour newadditions,theMeadowcroft CabernetSauvignonfromNapa
Valley($61.99).Wine&Spirits MagazinejustnamedthemWinery oftheYear.
“I’m
supposed to bring wine to go with dinner”
Foodandwinepairingisanart anditgetstrickierifyoudon’tknow exactlywhat’sbeingserved.If you’retaskedwithbringingawhite, Chardonnayisagreatchoice. Chardonnayisamorerobustwhite varietal,andwinemakersgenerally enhanceitsflavorandtexturewith oakaging.Asaresult,Chardonnay isawhitewinethatcanstand-upto savorydishes.IloveChardonnay fromtheRussianRiverValley,like Technique($23.99).
Asfarasredwinesgo,PinotNoir isanexcellentchoiceforpairing.
Whileithasthedark,earthyflavors thatcomplementholidayfare,itis lighterthanothervarietalslike Merlot,CabernetSauvignon,and Syrah.Thelayersofcherry,blackberry,andspicewillworkwellwith aprimerib,butitslighterprofile willnotoverwhelmaroasted chickenorevensalmon.Myfavorite istheGibbsNapaValleyLos CarnerosPinotNoir($39.99).
Attend a workshop
Ifyouwanttolearnevenmore excellenttipswhiletastinggreat wines,WineonMain’sDecember wineclassiscalled“Winningthe Holidays.”We’llbetacklingeven moreholidayscenarioswhile learningthestoriesbehindsixstunningselections.JoinusonTuesday, Dec.5,6:30to8p.m.or Wednesday,Dec.6,6:30to8p.m. Theclassis$35perpersonandlimitedto20people.Youcansign-upat wineonmainnh.comorin-store.
HappyHolidays!
EmmaStetsonistheownerofWine onMainlocatedat9N.MainSt.in Concord.Hercareerinthewineindustryspansoveradecadeandshe earnedherWSETLevelIIIAwardin Wine&SpiritsfromtheInternational WineCenterinNewYorkCity.
Purchase $50.00 in gift cards and receive a $10.00 bonus gift certificate. Purchase $100.00 in gift cards and receive a $20.00 bonus gift certificate. Bonus gift certificates redeemable after January 1st, 2024, Hurry, offer expires 12/23/2023.
22 Loudon Road, Concord - Across from the Everett Arena (603) 224-9600 www.el-rodeo-nh.com
Add some lit picks to your list
Books, including many from NH authors, will appeal to young and old
By KATHARINE NEVINS
For the Monitor
Kickofftheholidaysbyvisiting withthreeNewHampshireauthors. TheywillbeinthegalleryatMainStreetBookEndsonSaturday, Dec.,2aspartoftheWarner HometownCelebration.
Theyeachhavemanybooksto enjoy–manythatwouldmakegreat gifts–andtheauthorswillbefeaturingtheirnewestreleases.David Elliottpresentsfrom10a.m.to noon,JackNoonfromnoonto2 p.m.,andMattForrestEsenwine from2p.m.to4p.m.
At the Poles
ByDavidElliott,illustratedby EllenRooney
fourcenturiesofchangeinfish, wildlife,andtheforestsbeginning withthearrivalofEuropeansettlers,clearinglandandfarming alongwithfurtrading,cuttingtrees formastsandlumber,andcommercialfishing,allleadingtothedevelopmentofNHFishandGame. ComeandvisitwithJackasheisa wealthofinformationonNHhistory.
The Battle of the
ThisisthelatestinDavid’sseries ofchildren’s books writtenin poetry,alwaysbeautifullyillustrated,and focusingon different aspectof thenatural world.Fanswillrecall“Onthe Farm,”“IntheWild,”and“Atthe Pond”astheynowlearnoftheanimalsthatareuniquetotheArctic. Completewithnotesoneachanimalintheback,AtthePolesspeaks tothepreciousnessoflifeatthe endsoftheEarth.
New Hampshire Fish & Game, A History
ByJackNoon NewHampshirehistorian
JackNoonhas compiledthe firstcomprehensivehistory ofourFish& GameDepartment,covering
The Thing to Remember about Stargazing
ByMattForrestEsenwine, illustratedbySoniaPossentini
ThelatestpicturebookfromMatt zoomsinonthemagicofthecelestialsky,stoppingandtakingitallin. Mattwillbewithuswithallofhis children’sbooks,including“IAm Today”and“FlashlightNight.”
Andmorefavoritestospread around:
The Long Field
ByPamela Petro
Myfavorite nonfictionofthe year,thisisa memoirbroken downintoaseriesofstoriesrevolvingaround
theWelshword“Hiraeth”,orthe awarenessofthatwhichhasbeen lost,awordthatdoesnoteasily translateintoEnglish.Shewritesso eloquentlyaboutthisrecognitionof aprofoundabsenceandhowthis becomestheinspirationforcreativity,art,writingandlove.From NJ,nowteachingatSmithCollege, PamelafellinlovewithWalesasa youngstudent,returnsfrequently, andstartedawritinginstitutethere. ThiswasafinalistfortheWales BookoftheYearAward,justnow releasedfortheAmericanaudience, andnottobemissed.
Kukum
ByMichelJean,translatedby SusanOuriou
Historicalfictionatitsbest, basedonthe storyoftheauthor’sgreat grandmotherin Quebec.Awhite girlfallsinlove withanInnu hunterandbecomesintegratedintothat languageandcommunity.Over timeshewitnessedthelossoftraditionalways,theforestsandthewaterways,andexperiencestheirconfinementtoreservations.Kukum intimatelyexpressestheimportanceofInnuancestralvaluesand theneedforfreedomnomadicpeoplesfeeltothisday.Abestsellerin Quebec,nowtranslatedtoEnglish.
MFA Thesis Novel
ByIanM.Rogers
Alovelyand funexposeon theperilsof graduateschool, withanassortmentofcharactersdrivingeach othernutsin pursuitof writingthe GreatAmerican Novel,withall levelsofpowerstrugglestoknock downanyoneintheirway.Ianhails fromWarner,andweareproudto watchhimmentoringotherwriters andbecomingtheonewhobroke freefromacademicnonsense.
Lane Winslow Mystery Series
ByIonaWhishaw
Thisismytotalescapeseries, suchadelight,fromaCanadian writer.Thereareelevenbookscur-
rentlyintheseries,butyou havetostart withthefirst, “AKillerin King’sCove.”It is1946and LaneWinslow, seekingsolitude andquietfrom herlifeasanEnglishspyduringthewar,settlesina tinytowninBritishColumbia.Full ofmarvelouscharacters,aslowburnloveaffairwiththechiefofpolice,thisisawonderfullysmartand strongprotagonistwhoseemsto findandsolvemurdersaround everycorner.
Nell and the Netherbeast
ByAdiRule
Thisisthe latestmiddlegradenovel fromtheGranite State’sownAdi Rule,anditisso muchfun.
Twelve-yearoldNellloves animalsso,of course,shetakes ina shapeshiftingnastycreature/cat calledtheNetherbeast.Forcedto workatheraunt’sinnoverthe summer,thiswackyduohascrazy adventures,theysolveahaunting and,ofcourse,savetheday.
Little Witch Hazel
ByPhoebeWahl
Thechildreninyourlifewilllove thiscollectionofstoriesrevolving aroundthefourseasons,fullof woodland magicand beautifully illustrated byWahl. Thisisthe storyofa tinywitch wholivesin theforest, helping creatures bigand smallasamidwife,anintrepidexplorer,ahardworker,andakind friend.Afabulousread-aloudwith lotsofdiscussion.
KatharineNevinsisco-ownerof MainStreetBookEnds,anindependentbookstoreinWarner.Formore information,visitmainstreetbookends.com.
NEWSLETTERS NEWSLETTEERS
Amazing Array of Holiday Gifts
Minnetonka | Dingo | Merrell
Chippewa | Dan post | Justin lareDo | outbaCk | penDleton blankets ... anD More!
HOLIDAY FAIR
Unique Gifts hand crafted by local artisans
Photography, basketry, all things leather, pottery, hand weavings, woolen arts, paintings, hand-carved wooden gifts, and much more… Sat. & Sun.
2 & 3 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 69 Main Street, Granite Mill Building Harrisville, New Hampshire
• Double reclining sofas and love seats? We have them.
• Recliners and rocker recliners? We have them.
• Medical lift chairs? A good selection in stock.
• Bedding? 60 pieces in our warehouse.
• Appliances? Many in stock with weekly arrivals.
‘Christmas Carol’ tolls anon
Project Shakespeare brings Dickens’ tale on tour across Monadnock Region
ProjectShakespearebringstheirannual holidayproductionofCharlesDickens’ “AChristmasCarol”tocommunities throughouttheMonadnockregionthis holidayseason.
AdaptedanddirectedbyDeborahShakespeare Thurber,theproductionfeatures30students,ages 5-18,singing,dancingandsharingthistime-honoredstoryoflove,familyandredemption(andof courseaghostortwo!)Joinusforaneveningof holidaycheerthatpromisestobea“Dickens”ofa goodtimefortheentirefamily.
“AChristmasCarol”recountsthestoryof EbenezerScrooge,anelderlymiserwhoisvisitedbytheghostofhisformerbusinesspartner JacobMarleyandthespiritsofChristmasPast, PresentandYettoCome.Aftertheirvisits, Scroogeistransformedintoakinder,gentler man.
Thecastincludes:LouiseArsenault, AlexanderBrand,PeytonBrand,RowanBrand, LeilaBurk,CounselChronopoulos,TessGeana, CloverHeinzmann,RyeHeinzmann,Lillianna Helsel,EleanoraKishinevsky,AriellaLeifer, LachlanLinn,SeamusMalloy,AbigailMcKibben,BenjaminMichaud,RenzoPatterson,Lif Petrova,BenPipitone,MirandaPipitone,Toby Pipitone,ClaraWirein-Rudy,IrisWirein-Rudy, EmmyRatcliffe,FayeRatcliffe,MorganRatcliffe, AmeliaRosbach,JemRussell,CorbinSanders, ScoutSanders,andRinnaSchmidt.
Thecompletescheduleincludes:
■ Sunday,Dec.10at3p.m.,TheParkTheatre, 19MainStreet,Jaffrey
■ Friday,Dec.15,at7p.m.,FirstCongregationalChurch,6PaysonHillRoad,Rindge
■ Saturday,Dec.16,at3p.m.,GatheringWatersSchool(LowerSchool),98SouthLincoln
St.,Keene
■ Sunday,Dec.17,at3p.m.,Peterborough UnitarianUniversalistChurch,25MainSt.,Peterborough
■ Sunday,Dec.17,at7p.m.,FirstChurchin Jaffrey,14LabanAinsworthWay,Jaffrey Center
■ Friday,Dec.22at7p.m.,DublinCommunity Church,1125MainSt.,Dublin
Ticketsare$15adultsand$5forchildrenages 12andunderandmaybepurchasedatthebox officehalfhourpriortoshow.
ProjectShakespearewillalsoholdaHoliday QuiltRaffle.JudyMichaud,masterquilterisdonatingabeautifulhandmadequilt.Ticketsare $5apieceand$10forthreeandmaybepurchasedatallperformances.Forreservationsand quiltticketsemailprojectshakespeare@ gmail.com.
PREVIOUS PAGE: Seamus Malloy as the Ghost of Jacob Marley and Benjamin Michaud as Scrooge in Project Shakespeare’s “A Christmas Carol.”
Santa needs your help spreading kindness and cheer! Starting Dec. 1 2023 to Dec. 31 2023, scan the QR code with a smart phone to reveal messages from the REAL Santa! Inspire children to nurture, help others, share goodness and give. Includes ornament and one journal. NOW In Stock at Nicole’s Greenhouse & Florist
Holiday happenings
Through Nov. 26
Fez-tival of Trees
Enter to win raffles of trees decorated with an assortment of gifts and goodies. Nov. 21 to 22, 10
a.m. to 7; Nov. 24 to 25, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Nov. 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission $5, children younger than 12 free. For more information, call 603-2255372 or email feztival@ bektashshriners.org.
Nov. 24
Concord tree lighting
The tree lighting in Concord will take place at the Statehouse City Plaza from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 24. After Santa arrives, fireworks will be set off and there will be music, charity vendors, a burn barrel to toast marshmallows, hot beverages, and food vendors.
Nov. 24 - Dec. 23
‘A Christmas Carol’
Come celebrate the holiday season as the Palace Theatre tradition continues with Charles Dickens’ classic story of Scrooge and Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol. Palace Theatre, 80 Hanover St., Manchester. Tickets, $28$49, and showtimes at palacetheatre.org.
Nov. 25 - Dec. 10
‘It’s a Wonderful Life”
Joe Landry has reenvisioned the beloved film classic as a 1940’s style radio play. Five seasoned actors bring George, Clarence, Mary and all the residents of Bedford Falls to life on that fateful Christmas Eve – over 40 different roles. Staged at the New Hampshire Theatre Project, 959 Islington St., in
Portsmouth. Ticket cost range from $23 to $32. View show times and purchase tickets online at nhtheatreproject.org.
Nov. 25 - Nov. 26
‘The Nutcracker’
Safe Haven Ballet is brings their spirited, full-length ballet of “The Nutcracker” to the Colonial Theatre in Laconia. Performance at 4:30 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. Tickets starting at $40. Visit ColonialLaconia.com for more information.
Nov. 26
‘The Grinch’
Safe Haven Ballet performs “The Grinch” at the Colonial Theatre in Laconia at 6 p.m. Tickets starting at $40. Visit ColonialLaconia.com for more information.
Concord traditionally holds its tree lighting the Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 24, from 4 to 7 p.m.
spectacular to purchase tickets.
Dec. 9
‘The Nutcracker’ Celebrate the holidays with the tradition of the Nutcracker at 2 p.m. at the Concord City Audi (2 Prince St., Concord). Presented by Turning Pointe Dance, the family-friendly is a wonderful kick-off to the holiday season that retains the classical, magical experience for all ages. Tickets are $23 and available at the dance studio (371 Pembroke St., Pembroke), or online at turningpointecenterof dance.com. For more information, call 603-4858710.
Dec. 9
Boston Holiday Pops
The Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra returns to SNHU Arena (555 Elm St., Manchester) to perform their beloved Holiday Pops concert. The show, entitled “Unwrap the
Saturday at 1 and 3 p.m. at the Chubb Theatre at CCA, 44 S. Main St., Concord. Tickets starting at $15 at ccanh.com.
Dec. 10
Holiday POPS!
Magic,” strives to capture the magic of the Christmas season and the winter charms of New England. Performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $79.50. Visit snhuarena.com to purchase.
Dec. 9
Frosty
The Barter Players, are back with family favorite, Frosty. In playwright
Catherine Bush’s adaptation of the classic story, a young orphan named Billy discovers magic in a stolen hat. When he places the hat on a snowman’s head, that snowman comes to life. Join Billy and Frosty as they embark on a New York City adventure filled with thrills and chills, and discover that the real magic of Christmas is love. Performances are
A New Hampshire favorite. Nobody rings in the holiday like Symphony NH. Join Maestro Kalia for a high-energy performance at the Concord City Audi (2 Prince St., Concord), starting at 3 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10 to $65. To purchase, go online to symphonynh.org/23-24events/holiday-popsconcord. For more information, call 595-9156.
Dec.
15 - 17
Dec.
17
‘The Nutcracker’ NH School of Ballet presents “The Nutcracker.” With a cast of more than 50, come watch the falling snow, the growing Christmas tree, and the wonderful dancers of NHSB dance this holiday tradition. Performance begins at 2 p.m. at the Audi (2 Prince St., Concord). Tickets available at the studio, and at the door. For more information, call 6685330.
A Christmas Carol: The Musical Ghost Story Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative brings this holiday classic back to Laconia. This original adaptation by NH native Joel Mercier features a bright score, some twists and turns in the plot, stunning costumes and special effects, and some frightful ghosts, all while staying true to Dickens' original novella. A new Lakes Region holiday tradition, featuring granite state actors of all ages. Performances at the Colonial Theatre in Laconia on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets $18 to $22 at coloniallaconia.com.
COURTESY
Boston Pops Holiday Concert returnsto SNHU Arena in Manchester on Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. to “Unwrap the Magic.”
Making a list, checking it twice
By SARAH PEARSON Monitor staff
Thecommonidiomisthat“good thingscomeinsmallpackages”and whenitcomestoChristmasstockings,Icouldn’tagreemore. Growingupmystockingwasalways stuffedwithablendofitems, mostlypractical,somesillyandfun, andsomethatIwouldn’tcometo fullyappreciate’tilIwasolder.
Asanadult,I’vefoundthatthe littlegiftsthatcomeinstockingsare amongthemostlikelytobeused andappreciated.
Ifyou’vebeennewlyappointed bySantatoassistwithstocking fillingorifyou’vebeendoingitfor awhileandarefeelingstuck,the followingisa(bynomeansexhaustive)listofideastohelpyou.The onlylimitsforstockingsarethesize ofyoursockandwhatyousetas yourbudget.
I’vetriedtoincludeitemsthat willbesuitableforarangeofages, butnotallitemswillapplytoeveryone.Remember,thebestgifts areoneswiththoughtbehindthem, sotakeamomenttoobservethe habitsofthepeopleonyourlist. Observingwhatobjectstheyuse–anduseup–frequentlyisagreat waytogettheliststarted.
Personal care items
■ Toothbrush,toothpaste
■ Floss
■ Barsoap
■ Deodorant
■ Lipbalm
■ Make-up/cosmetics
■ Handcream
■ Shavingrazors
■ Combandbrush
■ Hairtiesoraccessories
■ Dryshampoo
■ Nailpolish
■ Nailfilesorclippers
■ Facemask
■ Eyemask
■ Bathbombs
■ Hairbonnet
■ Silkpillowcase
■ Loofah
■ Glassescleaningcloth
■ Glassesanti-fogcream
■ Coughdrops
■ Pockettissues
Things to wear
■ Glovesormittens
■ Hats
■ Scarves
■ Socks
■ Jewelry
■ Wristwatch
■ Charmsforbracelet
■ Enamelpin
■ Handorfootwarmers
■ Walletorchangepurse
■ Sunglasses
■ Necktie
■ Shoelaces
■ Handkerchief
Treats and eats
■ Chocolateorcandy(andcandy canes!)
■ Crackersorpretzels
■ Cookies,PockyandPiroulinefit well
■ Gum
■ Applesauceorother fruit/veggiepouches
■ Beefjerky
■ Fruitsnacks
■ Granolabars
■ Hotcocoamix,coffeesamples ortea
■ Mini-bottlesofliquororenergy shots(adultsonly,please)
Creative tools
■ Watercolorpaints
■ Crayons,markers,orcolored pencils
■ Stickers
■ Playdoughorsculptingclay
■ Crochetorknittingneedles
■ Sewingkit
■ Sewingnotions(buttons,snaps, ribbon,etc.)
■ Pipecleaners,pompoms,craft eyes
■ Smallcraftkits
■ Scissors
■ Gluesticks
■ Post-itnotes
■ Pensorpencils
■ Pocketnotebook
■ Binderclipsorfunkypaper clips
■ Pocketknifeormulti-tool
■ Hand-heldscrewdriverwithinterchangeablebits
■ Batteries
■ Zipties
Fun and games
Forthelittlestones:
■ Teethers
■ Rattles
■ Playscarves
■ Bathtoys
■ Bibsorburpcloths
■ Clothbooks
Forkids(orkidsatheart):
■ Fingerpuppets
■ Toycars
■ CardgameslikeGoFish,Skip Bo,orlearningflashcards
■ Colortabsforbath/bathbombs
■ Kinetic/moonsand
■ FidgettoyslikePop-its,fidget spinnersorsquishytoys
■ Smallanimalorpeoplefigurines
■ Alphabetmagnetsormagnetic poetry
■ Bubbles
■ Glowsticks
■ Handheldvideogame
Foradults:
■ CardgameslikeWhatDoYou Meme?,ExplodingKittens,or TRAILS
■ Magneticpoetry
■ Guidebooks
■ Puzzlebooksforsudokuor crosswords
■ Kitchengadgetsorutensils
■ Lotterytickets
■ Earbudsorheadphones
■ Stressball
Memories and memorabilia
■ Trading orgamingcards(baseball,Pokemon,MagictheGathering)
■ Mini-portraits
■ Ornaments,especiallyonewith personalsignificance
■ Snowglobe
■ Apersonalnoteofmemories fromthelastyear
■ Smallartprint,sculptureorpottery
■ Resin-preservedmemento
SARAH PEARSON/ Monitor staff
Do you have a favorite item you received in a stocking? Let us know at features@cmonitor.com.
‘Tis the season to shop local
Find one-of-a-kind gifts supporting local businesses
By BILL LITTLES
For the Ledger-Transcript
It’sgettingtobethattimeofyear again.Anipisintheair,Thanksgivingisuponusandyou’llbe agonizingoverwhatgiftstogetfor familyandfriends.Ihaveasuggestionforyou,ShopLocal.
Why shop local
It’swhereyoulive,yourhometown.Thebusinessownersareyour neighborsandfriends,andit’sgood forthecommunity.Themoneyyou spendinindependentstoresstaysin thatcommunityandhelpsthelocal economy.Thisisaknownfact.You willalsobehelpingtosupportthese hard-workingbusinesspeople.
More relaxing and fun
Youmaynotbeabletodoallof yourshoppinglocally,youcould,
UNCOMMON HOLIDAYS
TRADITIONAL GIFT CARDS
Purchase gift cards in-store from November 24 - December 31 and receive 20% of your total purchase back on a Common Man Bonus Card!* Available at Common Man locations.** Purchase online starting Cyber Monday, November 27 at theCman.com.
EGIFT CARDS
$10 DO GOOD HOLIDAY COUPON BOOK
UNIQUE GIFTS AT OUR CO. STORE
Toys • Books • House-made Fudge • Foodstuffs • NH Products
Delivered to their inbox or yours! For every $25 in Common Man EGift Card purchases from November 24 - December 31, you receive a $5 EGift Bonus Card*. That's 20% back for you! Available online at theCman.com.
Packed with $400 worth of deals that last all year long! A portion of proceeds benefits NH Food Bank.*** Available at C-MAN family locations and online at shop.theCman.com
Mugs & Drinkware • Common Man & Uncommon Woman Gear Shop in store at 59 Main Street, Ashland, NH or online at shop.theCman.com
*View complete Gift Card promotion details and Bonus Card use parameters at theCman.com.
MONADNOCK
Bill Littles, owner of Steele’s Stationers, and his daughter Jessica help customers at the Peterborough store during Plaid Friday in 2019.
butwhatyoucanwillbemorefun andenjoyablethanthosecrowded bigboxstores.And,independent storeswillwelcomeyouandbeglad tohelpyoufindthosespecialgifts.
Unique and one-of-akind gifts
Thisiswhatisbestaboutshoppingatindependentshops.Youwill findunique,one-of-a-kindofferings,orcreativecraftsandartwork atlocalstores.Weprideourselves insourcingone-of-a-kindmerchandise.Itisthisdiversityandcreativitythatmakesshoppinglocal special.
Plaid Friday
ThedayafterThanksgivingaseveryoneknowsiscalled“Black Friday,”butintheindependent shoppingworlditiscalled“Plaid Friday.”PlaidFridaywasstartedasa waytohelpcelebrateandsupport localstores,butalsotobringback thatrelaxed,enjoyableexperience ofholidayshoppingforfamilyand friends.Celebratednationallyatindependentstores,storepersonnel andcustomersareencouragedto wearplaid.Manystoreshavespecialsordiscountsthatday.
Shopping trends
Peoplearebuyingearliernowfor theholidays,sometimestospread outthecost,orbecausetheysee somethingthatcatchestheireye andwanttomakesuretheygetit. Theerraticsupplychainissueisanotherreason,shoppersdon’tknow iftheitemwillbetherelater.Shop-
pinginstoresandnotonlineisalso trending,whichisgreatforindependentstores.
Gift trends
Thisistheyearof“whimsy,” whimsicalorfancifulgifts.Mushroomsarehot,andsoareowlsand flamingos.Puzzlesarestillpopular,
asarecalendars,andbooks,andtea towelswithfunnysayings.Candles aregreatgifts,asarescenteddiffusers.SinceCovid,we’veseen strongChristmascardsales showingpeople’sdesiretokeepin touchwithfriendsandfamily.
Last minute – grab-n-go gifts
Needagiftforthatholidayparty atafriend'sorworkormaybefor someonehardtobuyfor?Manyindependentstoreswillhave‘Grab-nGo’giftsthey’veputtogetherjust forthatpurpose,andtheywillbe special,uniqueoneofakind.
Shoppingatlocalindependent storesisenjoyableandfun.Itwill alsomakeyoufeelgoodtosupport local,andmoreimportantlyyou’ll findsomespecialgiftsforloved onesthisholidayseason.Havea wonderfulholidayseason!
(BillLittlesownsSteele’sStationers inPeterboroughwithhiswife,Elizabeth.Steele’sStationersopenedits doorsin1860,makingitoneofthe oldestbusinessesintheMonadnock region.Itoffersstationery,computer supplies,giftsforallages,andpremiumcigars.Formoreinformation, visitsteelesstationers.com)
MONADNOCK LEDGER-TRANSCRIPT FILE
A foxmug fromSteele’s Stationers.Local businessesoften havegrab-and-go gifts if you have a last-minute invite.
