Portsmouth in Bloom: Can’t-Miss Events This Spring
Looking for a coastal getaway this spring? We’ve put together a local’s guide to the best events happening on the Portsmouth seacoast while the tulips are in bloom. From harbor-side food truck festivals to art walks and live music, there’s so much to see and do in May and June. If you’re planning a visit, come stay with us at The Tide House—our waterfront condos are just a short walk to downtown and offer the perfect home base. We’d love to host you soon!
Saturday May 1st, Catch Three-Time Grammy Nominees The Avett Brothers Live at Whittemore Center Arena on
Just a quick 20-minute drive to Durham, NH, and you're in for an unforgettable concert experience with this acclaimed folk-rock band. Get your tickets here!
Saturday June 7th, Dig In to Portsmouth’s Chowder Festival
Kick off summer with a local favorite—the Portsmouth Chowder Festival. Held right on the harbor, it’s the perfect mix of seaside views, live music, lawn games, and, of course, all the chowder you can sample. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to ease into summer. Tickets are $20—grab yours online here!
Saturday May 10, and Saturday May 31st Savor Delicious Bites at These Upcoming Food Truck Festivals
The 2025 Great Bay Food Truck Festival rolls into Stratham Hill Park May 10th from 12-4pm. Bring the whole family to enjoy a delicious mix of foods—from fresh seafood and smoky BBQ to juicy burgers and more. Enjoy live performances by local favorites Mugshot and Dan Morgan, and browse unique offerings from local artists and shops. It’s the perfect way to kick off spring with great food, good music, and community vibes. General admission is $10 and you can get tickets in advance online or purchase them there.
Come enjoy some delicious grub at Smuttynose Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival. Just a quick 20-minute drive from The Tide House, Smuttynose Brewing Co. is hosting their annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival on May 31st from 12 to 5 PM. Expect an incredible lineup of food trucks, including plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, plus handcrafted goods from local artisans. Don’t forget to pack your lawn chairs—kick back, sip some great brews, and soak up the good vibes on the lawn. It's the perfect way to ease into summer.
Thursday June 12 - Saturday June 14th Check Out the 25th Annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic
Every summer, Hampton Beach transforms into an open-air art gallery during the annual Sand Sculpture Competition. Talented sculptors from around the world come to create massive, mind-blowing works of art—all made entirely from sand. It’s free to wander and watch the artists at work, and once the sculptures are complete, the beach turns magical with evening lighting displays. It’s not every day you get to see a castle rise from the shoreline. Watch the masters in action on June 10th and 11th as they bring their creations to life, and don’t miss the excitement of the awards weekend from June 12th to 14th, when the top sculptures will be crowned.
Kick Off the Season with Live Music at Jimmy’s Jazz Club
As the days start to get warmer, it’s the perfect time for music lovers to embrace the season of live shows. Our local scene is buzzing with energy, and one standout destination is Jimmy’s Jazz Club. Known for its classy ambiance and top-tier cuisine, Jimmy’s offers a unique experience: enjoy a gourmet meal and signature cocktails while taking in performances from a variety of artists. From May through June, the stage will be alive nearly every night with talent spanning bluegrass, reggae, country, contemporary, and more.Whether you're planning a date night, a weekend outing with friends, or just looking to unwind with great music and food, Jimmy’s has something to offer. Be sure to check their calendar to find the perfect show for you.
Midweek Music Vibes at Water View Grill
Need a little midweek refresh? Every Wednesday night,Water View Grillon Bow Street—just a short stroll from the condo—comes alive with live music, making it the perfect spot to unwind. Enjoy fresh seafood, tasty bites, and your favorite drinks while soaking in the views of the Portsmouth harbor and our iconic tugboats. Whether you're planning a cozy date night or a relaxed evening with the whole family, this casual waterfront dining experience is a great place to check out.
Experience an eclectic mix of live music and discover talented artists at the vibrant and intimate 3S Artspace.
Just steps from The Tide House, 3S Artspace is a small-but-mighty venue known for its creative vibe and offbeat lineup. This spring, they’re hosting a handful of weekend shows (about seven total, and most taking place on weekends), and while the lineup may be small, each performance is big on character. From indie folk to experimental funk, no two nights are the same—and that’s the beauty of it. In addition to its music venue, 3S features several galleries showcasing the work of Jennifer Seo, Kate Conlon, and, from May 2nd to June 1st, the Portsmouth Senior Showcase. Come explore this cozy, welcoming space and support both established and emerging artists.
Be sure to check out these other amazing spots that offer live music, great food and even better atmosphere including The Goat, Cup of Joe, Thirsty Moose Taphouse, and many other local favorites.