Spring in New Hampshire sure takes its time getting here – but when it arrives, the rewards are oh-so-wonderful. One of the highlights of spring in the Granite State is always the lilac bloom, but it never lasts long enough. That means it’s all the more important to drink in every beautiful day – and we have just the way to do so.
You may be familiar with the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site in Portsmouth, which was once the residence of the then-colony’s Royal Governor. Later in the property’s history, it became a renowned artist’s colony. Today it’s owned by the New Hampshire Division of Parks and is a popular spot with visitors. Its annual Lilac Festival will be held this year on Saturday, May 26, 2018.
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
The site is at its best when its lilacs bloom in the spring – the stunning sight and aroma are unmissable. In recent years, the property’s lilac plants have faced some deadly botanical diseases, but its caretakers are working hard to keep the lilacs healthy and beautiful, and their work has paid off.
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
Visit during the lilac bloom and you’ll be absolutely in awe of the gorgeous flowers, which make the always-lovely property even more perfect. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera!
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
Some artists, though, prefer to paint what they see – every year some visit to work en plein air and paint the gorgeous scenes.
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
Kids can paint too, thanks to some excellent kids activities and a dedicated art tent!
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Museum Historic Site
There are plenty of other activities for young visitors, from a scavenger hunt to fairy house building.
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Museum Historic Site
Visitors of all ages will enjoy unexpected additions like the alpacas who have visited in the past!
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
The property’s seaside location makes it the perfect place to visit on the sunny day. You’ll love to wander around and admire the views – bring a picnic and make a day of it!
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
This year’s Lilac Festival will take place Saturday, May 26, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. For more details, visit the festival’s Facebook event page or the historic site’s website. The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site is located at 375 Little Harbor Rd, Portsmouth, NH.
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Museum Historic Site
Facebook/Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site
Looking for more unique New Hampshire events? Check out this wacky rubber duck race!
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