August

"Linda McCartney's Sixties: Portrait of an Era"
August 13-October 4; Manchester
603-669-6144
The late Linda Eastman was a successful freelance photographer before she met and married Beatle Paul McCartney. This exhibition, which includes 47 of her photographs of such musical giants as The Grateful Dead, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix and, of course, The Beatles, will be on display at the Currier Gallery of Art.

Downtown Concord Old Time Fiddling Championship
August 26; Concord
603-225-5512
Now in its fourth year, this championship draws novice and expert fiddlers from all over New England to compete in categories ranging from "Left-handed Fiddler" to "Hottest Fiddler" and from "Oldest Fiddler" to "Youngest Fiddler." Come out early and get a good spot for the evening's events as last year's competition brought hundreds of spectators out into Eagle Square to enjoy the tunes under the late summer stars.

September

The Fifth Annual White Mountain Art & Music Fest
September 3-6; Bretton Woods
603-278-1000
Featuring the unique works of New England artisans including pottery, stained glass, jewelry, photography and much more. Art lovers can also experience pottery demonstrations and jewelry workshops. On the music side, Friday night is Big Band night in the Grand Ballroom with a 17-piece ensemble performing traditional and contemporary arrangements. Other renowned guest musicians perform throughout the weekend.

The 10th Annual Seafood Festival and Sidewalk Sales
September 10-12; Hampton Beach
603-926-8718
With more than 50 restaurants selling food, vendors displaying crafts, three stages of musical entertainment and sidewalk bargains stretching along Ocean Boulevard, Hampton Beach is as lively as ever. Bring the kids along, there's plenty for them too.

The 24th Annual New Hampshire Highland Games
September 16-19; Lincoln
800-358-SCOT
The 24th annual New Hampshire Highland Games includes music, dance, food and more. Held at Loon Mountain, this is the largest event of its kind in New England.

The 7th Annual Grand Old Portsmouth Brewers Festival
September 25-26; Portsmouth
603-433-1106
Celebrate the brewing heritage of Portsmouth by sampling some of New England's finest microbrews. Stop by the "Best of the Bean" Chili Cook-Off across the street in Prescott Park, then head back to Strawbery Banke and choose from nearly 15 different craft brews to cool your taste buds.

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroads Annual Autumn Leaf Special
September 25; Meredith
603-745-2135
All aboard leaf peepers! Experience the most colorful time of the year in the most beautiful region of the state. This all-day scenic train excursion winds its way from the Lakes Region to the White Mountains Region, affording some of the most spectacular views of the season. Don't forget to bring your camera.

Calendar listings courtesy of Boston Magazine's New England Travel guide.