My 9 year old daughter has developed a strong taste for traditions and New Hampshire is rich with tradition especially this time of year. Many of our family traditions are things we do at home and around the house, but there are several events that are “must-do’s” as well.  This weekend brought Christmas in Suncook Village and Christmas at Canterbury (more on Christmas at Canterbury later in the week) Christmas in Suncook Village is so important, She turned down a birthday party invitation in favor of attending the annual festivities with friend.  That alone should tell you something about how good it is.

The event is put on by the Pembroke Women’s Club with the help of numerous volunteers, and the merchants of Main Street, Suncook. Two blocks of Main Street in Suncook were closed off and for a few hours, we enjoyed the simple pleasures of the season.  Inside the shops, there were face painters and balloon artists, fiddlers and a fish pond where kids fished for trinkets, treats or even a Toys R Us gift card. Santa and Mrs. Claus were waiting to hear the childrens’ requests at the Masonic Building and the Suncook United Methodist Church hosted several performances by local arts organizations (and treats and a craft were available in the basement). Kids demonstrated their artistic talents by frosting and decorating sugar cookies or creating a christmas ornament.

Outside, Saturday’s dusting of snow made things all that more festive as we were serenaded by local singing groups and church choirs. The kids took a pony ride and there were hay rides pulled by a tractor or a team of horses. We stopped and sipped some cider or hot chocolate while enjoying a performance from a community dance group. I also picked up my Christmas wreaths from a local boy scout troop.

Admission and parking are free, yes, FREE!

The Pembroke Women’s Club is local women’s service organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of those who live in Pembroke and Allenstown.  The group is a member of General Federation of Women’s Clubs International. I may be a little biased as my Mother-In-law is an active volunteer and former past president of the group, but these women are truly dedicated to their community and they have a lot of fun!

Christmas in Suncook Village is typically held the first Sunday in December. I’ll try and give you more warning next year.

What are you favorite local holiday events?