The New Haven Connecticut Register just wrote an article about the varied and delicious culinary scene in Keene. The Innkeepers who live here in the Monadnock region know we have great dining options for our guests, its nice when other people not from this area recognize it as well.
Click here to read the whole article.
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Monday, May 4, 2015
Keene Sentinel: MonIFF Int'l Film Festival III a BIG success
MonIFF, the Monadnock International Film Festival just wrapped up its third season and it is being touted as a big success. Check out this article in the Keene Sentinel for all the details.
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| Colonial Theater in Keene: MonIFF |
Monday, April 27, 2015
Washington Post: New Hampshire #1 for Libraries
Of course this OpEd in the Washington Post refers to libraries in the entire state of New Hampshire. However, the library in Peterborough received a special mention because it is the first tax supported library...in the world!!!
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| Old postcard image of Peterborough, NH Town Library |
Friday, February 20, 2015
"One-Woman Bean-to-Bar Operation in Peterborough"
The Monadnock Region in the news...
The Boston Globe recently wrote an article featuring Neely Cohen and her recently opened chocolate shop named Vicuna Chocolate Factory.
Neely has a fascinating story of a journey that started in Peterborough and led her to New York, Israel, Chicago and South America before back home to Peterborough and her attention getting chocolate factory. Read her story in the link provided above...or even better...make a trip to Peterborough and taste her fabulous chocolates and teas.
The Boston Globe recently wrote an article featuring Neely Cohen and her recently opened chocolate shop named Vicuna Chocolate Factory.
Neely has a fascinating story of a journey that started in Peterborough and led her to New York, Israel, Chicago and South America before back home to Peterborough and her attention getting chocolate factory. Read her story in the link provided above...or even better...make a trip to Peterborough and taste her fabulous chocolates and teas.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Spring Vacation: Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
Some schools in the region have their spring break next week. What will you do with the kids? Here’s an idea: Become a tourist in your own hometown, commonly known as a "stay-cation"! After all, how many times have you said you’ve wanted to climb Mt. Monadnock, visit a local museum or even stay at a local B&B?
Here are some tips to making your hometown “stay-cation” a success:
Here are some tips to making your hometown “stay-cation” a success:
- Visit to your local Chamber of Commerce for guides and maps. You may think you know your town, but you'd be surprised by all that is new to see and explore.
- Go to the local library. Libraries often have special discounted rates and good resources for children about your hometown
- Go to a restaurant you've never tried.
- Sign up for a tour – such as a walking tour, museum tour or historical tour.
- Park the car and walk! It's amazing how different your familiar surrounding looks on foot.
- Book a night at your local hotel or B&B. You can't imagine how thrilling it is for kids to spend the night just minutes from home but still a sleepaway
- Take pictures, have your kids send postcards to their neighbors and friends. They may think you're a little crazy, but you'll have fun!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Greater Monadnock Earth Days 2013
In the Monadnock Region, Earth Day doesn’t just come and go on April 22. Thanks to the efforts of Antioch University New England’s Environmental Studies Department, the Greater Monadnock Earth Days Festival spans a full two weeks – packed with workshops, seminars, community service projects and more to celebrate the region’s commitment to a healthy community and planet.
The fun (okay, work, but it’s fun if you do it with your neighbors and friends!) begins on Saturday, April 13 with a litter pick-up event, Green Up Keene. The next week includes the Monadnock Earth Day Festival on April 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting with another clean-up event at the Ashuelot Trail in Keene, followed by an expo, sustainable skills workshop and more.
Earth Days continue the following week on college campuses throughout the region, such as at Keene State College’s earth week events, Marlboro College’s “Wild and Scenic Films Festival”, Franklin Pierce University’s Earth Day Fair on April 22nd and Campus Garden Building Party, a garden blessing and more.
The Earth Days conclude at Keene State College on April 27 with the Campus Ecology Solar Fest.
For more information, visit Greater Monadnock Earth Days 2013 Facebook page.
The fun (okay, work, but it’s fun if you do it with your neighbors and friends!) begins on Saturday, April 13 with a litter pick-up event, Green Up Keene. The next week includes the Monadnock Earth Day Festival on April 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting with another clean-up event at the Ashuelot Trail in Keene, followed by an expo, sustainable skills workshop and more.
Earth Days continue the following week on college campuses throughout the region, such as at Keene State College’s earth week events, Marlboro College’s “Wild and Scenic Films Festival”, Franklin Pierce University’s Earth Day Fair on April 22nd and Campus Garden Building Party, a garden blessing and more.
The Earth Days conclude at Keene State College on April 27 with the Campus Ecology Solar Fest.
For more information, visit Greater Monadnock Earth Days 2013 Facebook page.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Ice Out … Fishing In
While true spring-like weather has not yet arrived in the Monadnock Region, the region’s lakes, ponds and streams are in warm-weather mode. The ice is gone … and spring fishing is about to come into season.
Fishing can happen year-round in New Hampshire – there is an active winter/ice fishing community in the state – but the number of fish you can catch and seasons for particular species, such as trout, vary. So make sure you check the NH Fish & Game website for all the rules. They have a handy full-color flipbook magazine for all you need to know about fishing in the state.
Once you get the rules and regs down, and buy your fishing license at N.H. Fish & Game offices statewide or online, or at selected stores around the state, you’ll be ready to grab your pole and start fishing in the Monadnock Region.
And where are the fish biting in the Monadnock Region? Here’s The List
But local fishing lore narrows down the list considerably … some of the best fishing spots include Laurel Lake in Fitzwilliam, Granite Lake in Nelson, Silver Lake in Nelson (best for trout), Nubanusit Lake in Nelson, Robin Hood Park Reservoir in Keene, Thorndike Pond in Jaffrey and Willard Park in Antrim.
Where’s your favorite fishing spot in the Monadnock Region? Let us know!
Fishing can happen year-round in New Hampshire – there is an active winter/ice fishing community in the state – but the number of fish you can catch and seasons for particular species, such as trout, vary. So make sure you check the NH Fish & Game website for all the rules. They have a handy full-color flipbook magazine for all you need to know about fishing in the state.
Once you get the rules and regs down, and buy your fishing license at N.H. Fish & Game offices statewide or online, or at selected stores around the state, you’ll be ready to grab your pole and start fishing in the Monadnock Region.
And where are the fish biting in the Monadnock Region? Here’s The List
But local fishing lore narrows down the list considerably … some of the best fishing spots include Laurel Lake in Fitzwilliam, Granite Lake in Nelson, Silver Lake in Nelson (best for trout), Nubanusit Lake in Nelson, Robin Hood Park Reservoir in Keene, Thorndike Pond in Jaffrey and Willard Park in Antrim.
Where’s your favorite fishing spot in the Monadnock Region? Let us know!
Monday, April 1, 2013
The Monadnock Region’s Abuzz with MONiff
Just in case you haven’t left your house (or read any local news!) since the snow began to fall, Monadnock International Film Festival (MONiff) – is the region’s first international film festival that will bring world-class film and filmmakers to the area this April.
This exciting event – held on April 4, 5 and 6, 2013 – will feature great movies (along with the filmmakers and actors) at various venues in Keene – including the Colonial Theatre and venues at Keene State College.
Films include international, national as well as New Hampshire made films http://moniff.org/festival-films; the festival includes film screenings, panel discussions with the filmmakers, actors and directors, and parties on each evening of the event.
MonIFF was created through a collaboration of artists, local film makers and producers, community leaders from local non-profits, universities and colleges, social service agencies and businesses.
This exciting event – held on April 4, 5 and 6, 2013 – will feature great movies (along with the filmmakers and actors) at various venues in Keene – including the Colonial Theatre and venues at Keene State College.
Films include international, national as well as New Hampshire made films http://moniff.org/festival-films; the festival includes film screenings, panel discussions with the filmmakers, actors and directors, and parties on each evening of the event.
MonIFF was created through a collaboration of artists, local film makers and producers, community leaders from local non-profits, universities and colleges, social service agencies and businesses.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
What is it? W.H.A.T.’S. Keene 2013 … A 10-Day Celebration of Keene’s Wine, Hospitality, Arts, Tastes and Shopping
Come April, most northern New Englanders are weary of winter and ready to celebrate.
Keene is offering up the best excuse yet to don your spring jacket and get out into downtown with its W.H.A.T.’S. Keene! Festival, a 10-day celebration of Keene’s wine, hospitality, arts, tastes and shopping, i.e., the acronym for the event.
Forty local businesses are participating in the event, which begins on Thursday, April 4 and ends Sunday, April 14. The celebration, sponsored by several local non-profit and for-profit organizations, will feature daily events by downtown merchants including discounts, two-for-one specials, free gifts, and special offers by Monadnock Region B&Bs and inns. And some merchants – such as Kristin’s Bistro & Bakery, Life is Sweet, Luca’s Café, Local Burger, Good Fortune and Colonial Corner -- will open their doors to featured musicians.
The event will also host the first annual Monadnock International Film Festival, with an April 4 opening night film at the Colonial Theater, and films shown throughout the 10 day festival. If that wasn’t enough, there will also be a guitar festival at Keene State College, a burger eating contest at Local Burger, and much more.
Don’t miss all the fun at the first annual W.H.A.T.’S Keene! Celebration.
Keene is offering up the best excuse yet to don your spring jacket and get out into downtown with its W.H.A.T.’S. Keene! Festival, a 10-day celebration of Keene’s wine, hospitality, arts, tastes and shopping, i.e., the acronym for the event.
Forty local businesses are participating in the event, which begins on Thursday, April 4 and ends Sunday, April 14. The celebration, sponsored by several local non-profit and for-profit organizations, will feature daily events by downtown merchants including discounts, two-for-one specials, free gifts, and special offers by Monadnock Region B&Bs and inns. And some merchants – such as Kristin’s Bistro & Bakery, Life is Sweet, Luca’s Café, Local Burger, Good Fortune and Colonial Corner -- will open their doors to featured musicians.
The event will also host the first annual Monadnock International Film Festival, with an April 4 opening night film at the Colonial Theater, and films shown throughout the 10 day festival. If that wasn’t enough, there will also be a guitar festival at Keene State College, a burger eating contest at Local Burger, and much more.
Don’t miss all the fun at the first annual W.H.A.T.’S Keene! Celebration.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Stonewall Farm’s Horse Drawn Sap Gathering Competition
These days, maple sugaring is done with the help of long tubes that are strung through the sugar bush. The no-nonsense process efficiently collects sap from the trees and transports it right into the sugarhouse where it is boiled down to maple syrup.
But before the days of plastic tubing, sap was collected in metal buckets and gathered up by teamsters who drove draft horses pulling sleds through the woods.
To see this bygone era come to life, visit Stonewall Farm in Keene on March 23rd for the 14th Annual Horse Drawn Sap Gathering Contest. The competition begins at 10 a.m.
The contest draws about a dozen teams of two-hitch draft horses from all around New England to compete: The drivers, using only voice commands, maneuver the team of horse-drawn sleds through the narrow sugar bush on the farm, collecting sap buckets and quickly emptying them into containers in the sled. The teamster who is the fastest, with the best control of the horses, and the least sap spills, wins.
The fun doesn’t end once the competition is over. Visitors can congratulate the teams of horses, and enjoy maple syrup sundaes, sugaring demonstrations, sampling maple syrup, hayrides, food and lots more.
Parking at the farm is limited. Free parking shuttles are available from Alumni Field (next to Keene High School) on Arch Street. Entrance fee: Stonewall Farm Members: $3/person; Non-Members: $5/person; Children 6 and under FREE.
But before the days of plastic tubing, sap was collected in metal buckets and gathered up by teamsters who drove draft horses pulling sleds through the woods.
To see this bygone era come to life, visit Stonewall Farm in Keene on March 23rd for the 14th Annual Horse Drawn Sap Gathering Contest. The competition begins at 10 a.m.
The contest draws about a dozen teams of two-hitch draft horses from all around New England to compete: The drivers, using only voice commands, maneuver the team of horse-drawn sleds through the narrow sugar bush on the farm, collecting sap buckets and quickly emptying them into containers in the sled. The teamster who is the fastest, with the best control of the horses, and the least sap spills, wins.
The fun doesn’t end once the competition is over. Visitors can congratulate the teams of horses, and enjoy maple syrup sundaes, sugaring demonstrations, sampling maple syrup, hayrides, food and lots more.
Parking at the farm is limited. Free parking shuttles are available from Alumni Field (next to Keene High School) on Arch Street. Entrance fee: Stonewall Farm Members: $3/person; Non-Members: $5/person; Children 6 and under FREE.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Maple Syrup: How Sweet it is!
Before you buy maple syrup, you need to make sure it is the real deal. Real maple syrup is never labeled “breakfast” or “pancake” syrup, such as what you might find in a supermarket aisle: These concoctions are basically high fructose corn syrup with artificial flavoring. It is against U.S. law to label these sweeteners “maple syrup.”
Real maple syrup, as you many know, is a product from maple trees’ liquid sap, which is collected in late winter to early spring, and boiled down to make thick maple syrup. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of maple syrup – which is why our delicious maple syrup can be pricey.
When you visit a sugar house operation during maple sugaring season, or buy a bottle of real maple syrup, you might be confused by the types of “grades” of syrup.
Here’s a quick guide to what these labels mean, courtesy of information from the New Hampshire Maple Producers Association. Note that the “grades” do not have to do with the purity of the maple syrup, simply the color and flavor. Chose your grade and color according to how strong you like your maple flavor.
Grade A Light Amber: This is the first run of maple syrup in early spring. It is light in color and has a delicate maple flavor. It’s used to make maple cream, candy and sugar.
Grade A Medium Amber: This is a syrup produced later in the season; the syrup is darker than the “light” and has a richer maple flavor. Many people prefer this grade for pouring over pancakes, ice cream or oatmeal. It is also used for making maple cream and sugar.
Grade A Dark Amber: This dark syrup is made toward the end of the sugaring season. This variety (as well as Grade B), is a favorite among native New Englanders since it has a preferred hearty maple flavor.
Grade B: This is the syrup that is produced at the very tail end of the season. Many producers make a small amount of this grade, which has very dark color and robust maple taste. Many prefer this grade for cooking, but it can also be used as a table syrup.
Real maple syrup, as you many know, is a product from maple trees’ liquid sap, which is collected in late winter to early spring, and boiled down to make thick maple syrup. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of maple syrup – which is why our delicious maple syrup can be pricey.
When you visit a sugar house operation during maple sugaring season, or buy a bottle of real maple syrup, you might be confused by the types of “grades” of syrup.
Here’s a quick guide to what these labels mean, courtesy of information from the New Hampshire Maple Producers Association. Note that the “grades” do not have to do with the purity of the maple syrup, simply the color and flavor. Chose your grade and color according to how strong you like your maple flavor.
Grade A Light Amber: This is the first run of maple syrup in early spring. It is light in color and has a delicate maple flavor. It’s used to make maple cream, candy and sugar.
Grade A Medium Amber: This is a syrup produced later in the season; the syrup is darker than the “light” and has a richer maple flavor. Many people prefer this grade for pouring over pancakes, ice cream or oatmeal. It is also used for making maple cream and sugar.
Grade A Dark Amber: This dark syrup is made toward the end of the sugaring season. This variety (as well as Grade B), is a favorite among native New Englanders since it has a preferred hearty maple flavor.
Grade B: This is the syrup that is produced at the very tail end of the season. Many producers make a small amount of this grade, which has very dark color and robust maple taste. Many prefer this grade for cooking, but it can also be used as a table syrup.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Sugaring Season is Right Around the Corner
Learn more about the New Hampshire Maple Weekend and participating Monadnock Region sugar producers.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
General Stores - the way people used to shop...and still can
In this age of big-box stores, you can still step back in time to another generation and experience an old fashioned New England country village store.
In the Monadnock Region there are still many of these General Stores with soft worn wooden floors, a bell jingle as you open the front door and a warm welcoming smile from the merchants. Make sure to stop by and pick up some items you need, get information on the town, and stay a while to get the flavor of an old time village store. Many make great lunch stops with their delicious deli counters, small dining areas...and some have even more sophisticated menus.
Your local innkeeper can point you in the right direction but there are General Stores in most towns.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Bookstore Tourism in the Monadnock Region
Travelers who are bibliophiles can’t help but wander into local bookstores when visiting a new place. Visiting an independent, used, or antiquarian bookstore is an exciting adventure for book lovers … the thrill of the “local authors” section, the delight in finding a rare book, and then there’s the relaxation of sitting down and reading the first page of a coveted hardcover.
According to Larry Portzline, the author of “Bookstore Tourism: The Book Addict's Guide to Planning & Promoting Bookstore Road Trips for Bibliophiles & Other Bookshop Junkies”, bookstore tourism is a growing grassroots travel niche that encourages book lovers to plan group trips to cities and towns with interesting, fun and unique independent bookshops. “It taps into this thirst for literary adventure,” he writes. Portzline suggests combine your bookstore trip with other literary attractions, such as writing retreat centers, sites of well-known books and tours of famous authors’ homes.
Here are some bookstores along the way if you plan a literary adventure in the Monadnock Region. Asterisked (*) booksellers are open by appointment or by chance only, so make sure you call ahead. And don’t miss the upcoming “Round the Mountain Book Sale” on April 11-14, 2013. For more information about this sale and participating bookstores visit:
Aard Books*
31 Russell Ave., Troy NH
603-242-3638.
Bequaert Old Books*
37 Rt 119 W, Fitzwilliam, NH
603-585-3448
Callahan & Company Booksellers*
Rte. 123, Sharon, NH
603-924-3726
Eagle Books*
19 West St., Right off Central Square in Keene, NH
603-357-8721
Homestead Books
221 East Main St. (Rt 101), Marlborough, NH
603-876-4213
Hurley Books, Inc.*
1752 Rte. 12, Westmoreland, NH 03467
603-399-4342
Ray Boas, Bookseller*
On the Common, 44 Elm St., Walpole, NH 03608
603-756-9900
Ted Cole Books*
7 West Street, Antrim, NH 03440
Books also for sale at New Hampshire Antique Coop in Milford, NH
603-588-3145
The Book Preserve*
33 North Main St., Antrim, NH
603-588-4020
Toadstool Bookshops
3 Locations:
12 Depot Sq., Peterborough, NH
222 West St., Keene, NH
586 Nashua St., Milford, NH
According to Larry Portzline, the author of “Bookstore Tourism: The Book Addict's Guide to Planning & Promoting Bookstore Road Trips for Bibliophiles & Other Bookshop Junkies”, bookstore tourism is a growing grassroots travel niche that encourages book lovers to plan group trips to cities and towns with interesting, fun and unique independent bookshops. “It taps into this thirst for literary adventure,” he writes. Portzline suggests combine your bookstore trip with other literary attractions, such as writing retreat centers, sites of well-known books and tours of famous authors’ homes.
Here are some bookstores along the way if you plan a literary adventure in the Monadnock Region. Asterisked (*) booksellers are open by appointment or by chance only, so make sure you call ahead. And don’t miss the upcoming “Round the Mountain Book Sale” on April 11-14, 2013. For more information about this sale and participating bookstores visit:
Aard Books*
31 Russell Ave., Troy NH
603-242-3638.
Bequaert Old Books*
37 Rt 119 W, Fitzwilliam, NH
603-585-3448
Callahan & Company Booksellers*
Rte. 123, Sharon, NH
603-924-3726
Eagle Books*
19 West St., Right off Central Square in Keene, NH
603-357-8721
Homestead Books
221 East Main St. (Rt 101), Marlborough, NH
603-876-4213
Hurley Books, Inc.*
1752 Rte. 12, Westmoreland, NH 03467
603-399-4342
Ray Boas, Bookseller*
On the Common, 44 Elm St., Walpole, NH 03608
603-756-9900
Ted Cole Books*
7 West Street, Antrim, NH 03440
Books also for sale at New Hampshire Antique Coop in Milford, NH
603-588-3145
The Book Preserve*
33 North Main St., Antrim, NH
603-588-4020
Toadstool Bookshops
3 Locations:
12 Depot Sq., Peterborough, NH
222 West St., Keene, NH
586 Nashua St., Milford, NH
Monday, January 14, 2013
Winter Farmers’ Market
Just because the snow is falling and the ground is frozen solid doesn’t mean there isn’t fresh food at the farmers’ markets. While you won’t find local basil or tomatoes at a Monadnock Region winter farmers’ market, you will find lots of ingredients to make what you crave most this time of year – soups and stews. We’re talking potatoes, garlic, onions, turnips, rutabagas, celery root and carrots. Many farmers markets also sell meat, eggs and milk – and some sell wool products such as yarn and felt for winter crafting.
So visit a local winter farmers’ market during your winter stay in the Monadnock Region. You’ll go home with fresh ingredients for the comfort food you need this time of year.
Keene Winter Market
Colony Mill Marketplace (near Elm City Restaurant & Brewery entrance)
Saturdays (2nd & 4th of the month).
Nov. 10-Apr.27 (10 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Milford Winter Market
Milford Town Hall
Saturdays (most 1st and 3rd of the month).
Oct. 20-Apr. 6 (10 a.m.-1 p.m.)
Peterborough Winter Market
Peterborough Community Center
Wednesdays, Oct. 17-Apr. 24 (3-6 p.m.)
Walpole Winter Market
Walpole Town Hall
3rd Saturday of the month.
Jan. 19-Apr. 20 (11 a.m.-1 p.m.)
So visit a local winter farmers’ market during your winter stay in the Monadnock Region. You’ll go home with fresh ingredients for the comfort food you need this time of year.
Keene Winter Market
Colony Mill Marketplace (near Elm City Restaurant & Brewery entrance)
Saturdays (2nd & 4th of the month).
Nov. 10-Apr.27 (10 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Milford Winter Market
Milford Town Hall
Saturdays (most 1st and 3rd of the month).
Oct. 20-Apr. 6 (10 a.m.-1 p.m.)
Peterborough Winter Market
Peterborough Community Center
Wednesdays, Oct. 17-Apr. 24 (3-6 p.m.)
Walpole Winter Market
Walpole Town Hall
3rd Saturday of the month.
Jan. 19-Apr. 20 (11 a.m.-1 p.m.)
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Snow Fun – Skiing and Snowshoeing -- in the Monadnock Region
The Monadnock Region doesn’t have the big (read: crowded) downhill ski resorts that the White Mountain region to the north of us does. But we do have some of the most beautiful and serene cross country and snowshoeing trails in the state.
Snow can be found in our region from about early December until March – and the latest snowstorms have dumped a foot or more of light powdery snow all over our region. It is a winter wonderland here in the Monadnock Region right now! Perfect for a jaunt out into our woods and forests on cross country skis or snowshoes.
There are endless Monadnock Region hiking trails waiting to be discovered by ski or snowshoe this winter. You could also ask your local innkeeper for tips as there are too many trails to list in this blog posting. If you prefer groomed trails, here is a list of maintained trails (some have facilities for rentals and lessons as well):
Granite Gorge Ski Area, Keene/Roxbury: Downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing park. Lessons and rentals.
The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy: Cross country and snowshoeing trails.
Road's End Farm and Ski Touring Center, Chesterfield: (603) 363-4703. Cross country and snowshoeing trails.
Stonewall Farm, Keene: Snowshoeing. Daily snowshoe rentals: adults $3, kids $1.
Windblown Cross Country Ski Area, New Ipswich: Cross country and snowshoeing trails.
Woodbound Inn, Rindge: Cross country and snowshoeing trails. (No trail fee for guests of the inn)
Snow can be found in our region from about early December until March – and the latest snowstorms have dumped a foot or more of light powdery snow all over our region. It is a winter wonderland here in the Monadnock Region right now! Perfect for a jaunt out into our woods and forests on cross country skis or snowshoes.
There are endless Monadnock Region hiking trails waiting to be discovered by ski or snowshoe this winter. You could also ask your local innkeeper for tips as there are too many trails to list in this blog posting. If you prefer groomed trails, here is a list of maintained trails (some have facilities for rentals and lessons as well):
Granite Gorge Ski Area, Keene/Roxbury: Downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing park. Lessons and rentals.
The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy: Cross country and snowshoeing trails.
Road's End Farm and Ski Touring Center, Chesterfield: (603) 363-4703. Cross country and snowshoeing trails.
Stonewall Farm, Keene: Snowshoeing. Daily snowshoe rentals: adults $3, kids $1.
Windblown Cross Country Ski Area, New Ipswich: Cross country and snowshoeing trails.
Woodbound Inn, Rindge: Cross country and snowshoeing trails. (No trail fee for guests of the inn)
Thursday, December 20, 2012
5 Local Gift Ideas for Your Last Minute Christmas Shopping
You’re all done with your Christmas shopping, right? No? Well, lucky you – there’s an extra weekend of holiday shopping this year.
Still, there are many of us at a loss for what to give our co-worker, neighbor or mother. Have no fear – there are plenty of ideas from the Monadnock Region’s independently-owned businesses. And, of course, there’s the added benefit of NH tax-free shopping!
Here are 5 gift ideas to get you officially “done” with your shopping this weekend:
Still, there are many of us at a loss for what to give our co-worker, neighbor or mother. Have no fear – there are plenty of ideas from the Monadnock Region’s independently-owned businesses. And, of course, there’s the added benefit of NH tax-free shopping!
Here are 5 gift ideas to get you officially “done” with your shopping this weekend:
- Bee Line Skin Care, by S Formulators, a small bath and body company based in Henniker, NH. This line includes natural beeswax or honey, which helps soften and re-hydrate dry skin (we all need that in the winter!) The line includes skin mists, glycerin soaps, lip balms and soy lotion candles. Beautiful spa-like scents in lovely packaging. Available in downtown Keene at Hannah Grimes Marketplace, a treasure trove of local products.
- A Fine Art Painting by Kristina Wentzell. Don’t think you could afford to give an original work of art? You can with fine artist Kristina Wentzell’s special holiday “100 paintings for $100 (or less).” Wentzell creates colorful and whimsical oil paintings of landscapes, fruit, birds, landscapes and flowers. Paintings range in size from 8”x8” (for $75-$100) down to 4”x4” (for $30). Her home studio is walking distance to downtown Keene.
- Hand-Knit Wool Socks at Crescendo Acres Farm, Surry, NH. Who doesn’t appreciate some warm socks in the winter, especially a pair lovingly hand-knit by a farmer’s wife? These comfy socks are sheep’s wool or alpaca blend. Price range is $25-35 per pair. A trip to the store in Surry could also give you more gift ideas – the farmers carry many unique items made from the farm’s fiber including snowmen, angels, cat toys, hats, mittens (also a hot item), shawls; plus local farm products including preserves, eggs, meat, mustards, breads, pies, honey and more.
- A Gift Certificate to Your Favorite Monadnock Region B&B or Inn. The Monadnock Region is filled with a bed and breakfast or inn to suit individuals or families. Peruse our listings to find the best one for your gift-recipient's needs -- many have gift certificates available.
- A Mail Basket by Peterboro Basket Company, Peterborough. This is one of the most popular baskets produced by this local company. It is hand-woven “one-of-a-kind” design with a leather handle on the back for hanging – can be used for mail, toiletries, dog leashes and more. Available in honey, cherry or natural stain and comes with the famous Peterboro brass medallion and lifetime warranty. On sale for $34 (buy 2 for $31 each).
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Catch a Holiday Concert
Many local holiday concerts and chorus performance have already come and gone – but there are still three major ones coming up this weekend that are guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit. Two choral and one band performance – take your pick!
Animaterra’s Winter Concert: Song of Soul
Animaterra is a women’s chorus that performs music of the world’s traditions. The group performs two winter concerts this weekend:
Saturday, December 15, 2012, 7:30-9 p.m. Saint James Episcopal Church, 44 West Street, Keene.
Sunday, December 16, 2012, 4-5:30 p.m. Union Congregational Church, 33 Concord St. (Rte. 202), Peterborough.
$10 for adults, $6 for children and seniors.
The Cheshiremen Chorus: A Holiday Festival of Harmony
The Cheshiremen Chorus sings in the barbershop harmony tradition. Their holiday concert features seasonal favorites performed by the chorus and quartets and a sing-along with the audience. A light reception follows the concert.
Saturday, December 15, 2012, 7 p.m. United Church of Christ, 23 Central Square, Keene.
$8 advance tickets, $10 at the door.
Nelson Town Band’s Holiday Concert
A quintessential local town band made up of musicians of all ages from the town of Nelson. Its holiday concert features one hour of holiday music – with cookies served afterward.
Sunday, December 16, 2012, 4 p.m.
No charge.
Animaterra’s Winter Concert: Song of Soul
Animaterra is a women’s chorus that performs music of the world’s traditions. The group performs two winter concerts this weekend:
Saturday, December 15, 2012, 7:30-9 p.m. Saint James Episcopal Church, 44 West Street, Keene.
Sunday, December 16, 2012, 4-5:30 p.m. Union Congregational Church, 33 Concord St. (Rte. 202), Peterborough.
$10 for adults, $6 for children and seniors.
The Cheshiremen Chorus: A Holiday Festival of Harmony
The Cheshiremen Chorus sings in the barbershop harmony tradition. Their holiday concert features seasonal favorites performed by the chorus and quartets and a sing-along with the audience. A light reception follows the concert.
Saturday, December 15, 2012, 7 p.m. United Church of Christ, 23 Central Square, Keene.
$8 advance tickets, $10 at the door.
Nelson Town Band’s Holiday Concert
A quintessential local town band made up of musicians of all ages from the town of Nelson. Its holiday concert features one hour of holiday music – with cookies served afterward.
Sunday, December 16, 2012, 4 p.m.
No charge.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
O Christmas Tree: Cut Your Own Trees in the Monadnock Region
Sure, you can unceremoniously pick up a Christmas tree in a lot. Or buy an artificial tree.
But there’s something magical about going out to a tree farm, walking through rows of evergreens, selecting a special one, and sawing down your very own Christmas tree. Add to that the crisp winter air, the beauty of the Monadnock Region scenery, hot chocolate, cider and homemade donuts and you have Christmas memories that will last a lifetime.
While many trees may have already been tagged by now (die-hard cut-your-own tree fans were already out at the farms early this fall picking their trees) there are still wonderful trees to be found, cut, tied to your car, and taken home. If you are from out of town you can select from many fine B&Bs and inns throughout the region to make cutting your tree a relaxing pre-Christmas weekend getaway.
Here’s a list of the popular cut-your-own tree farms in the Monadnock Region. You may want to call ahead for hours, refreshments available and availability of trees. Many farms will provide saws and roping free of charge.
Keene
Monadnock View Farm * 603-352-7892
Wright’s Tree Farm * 603-352-4033
Richmond
Windswept Mountain View Christmas Tree Farm * 603-239-4005
Rindge
Sunny Slopes Farm * 603-899-3169
Surry
Crescendo Acres * 603-352-9380
Walpole
Homestead Farms * 603-756-4800
Westmoreland
Farmstead Acres * 603-352-8730
Old Ciderpress Farm * 603-399-7210
Winchester
My Old Farm * 603-239-6751
But there’s something magical about going out to a tree farm, walking through rows of evergreens, selecting a special one, and sawing down your very own Christmas tree. Add to that the crisp winter air, the beauty of the Monadnock Region scenery, hot chocolate, cider and homemade donuts and you have Christmas memories that will last a lifetime.
While many trees may have already been tagged by now (die-hard cut-your-own tree fans were already out at the farms early this fall picking their trees) there are still wonderful trees to be found, cut, tied to your car, and taken home. If you are from out of town you can select from many fine B&Bs and inns throughout the region to make cutting your tree a relaxing pre-Christmas weekend getaway.
Here’s a list of the popular cut-your-own tree farms in the Monadnock Region. You may want to call ahead for hours, refreshments available and availability of trees. Many farms will provide saws and roping free of charge.
Keene
Monadnock View Farm * 603-352-7892
Wright’s Tree Farm * 603-352-4033
Richmond
Windswept Mountain View Christmas Tree Farm * 603-239-4005
Rindge
Sunny Slopes Farm * 603-899-3169
Surry
Crescendo Acres * 603-352-9380
Walpole
Homestead Farms * 603-756-4800
Westmoreland
Farmstead Acres * 603-352-8730
Old Ciderpress Farm * 603-399-7210
Winchester
My Old Farm * 603-239-6751
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
8th Annual Currier and Ives Cookie Tour
You get to tour the inside of an inn, bed and breakfast, store, library or historical society with your friends, see enchanting Christmas decorations and ideas for your home – AND you get a cookie treat (and a recipe card)! It doesn’t get any better than this.
The Monadnock Region’s Currier & Ives Cookie Tour – held this year on December 8, 2012 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. -- takes you on a 13-stop tour through the quintessentially New England towns of Fitzwilliam, Jaffrey, Rindge, Troy, Marlborough, Peterborough and Swanzey. Tickets are $10; a portion of this year's proceeds will be donated to the Santa's House of Jaffrey, which provides toys to local children in need.
Tour Stops include:
Little River Bed & Breakfast, Peterborough*
Paper & Roses, Peterborough
Anytime Apparel, Peterborough
The Woodbound Inn, Rindge*
Jaffrey Public Library (Santa’s House), Jaffrey
The Monadnock Inn, Jaffrey*
The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy*
Common Collections, Troy
The Fitzwilliam Historical Society, Fitzwilliam
The Troy Historical Society, Troy*
Inn of the Tartan Fox, Swanzey
Swanzey Historical Society, Swanzey
Unbridled Chocolates, Marlborough
*Tickets can be purchased at these locations from November 26 through the day of the tour. Cash or check only.
A tour map will be printed on your ticket. You can begin the tour at any location. The average time between locations is about a 10 minute drive. Make sure you bring a cookie tin or container to store your cookies.
So pack up your friends, your sense of adventure, and have a great time touring great local establishments and tasting delicious homemade cookies! Turn your cookie tour into an overnight or weekend getaway by staying at a local B&B or inn.
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