The first weekend of August is expected to bring heat, humidity, and scattered thunderstorms to the Seacoast. But it’s also expected to bring some highly anticipated concerts, art shows, and gatherings. Learn about some of the top highlights below.
Bill Paarlberg Exhibition
Local artist Bill Paarlberg has been creating iconic Seacoast images for decades. Though he is largely known for his depictions of giant monsters attacking area landmarks, he has produced a wide variety of paintings and drawings. Throughout August, the Kennedy Gallery in Portsmouth is showcasing some of his work in “Bill Paarlberg: Smuttynose Watercolors and Drawings of 1980s Portsmouth.” An opening reception takes place during Art ’Round Town on Friday, Aug. 3, from 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Lord Huron / Patty Larkin
A couple of nationally-known folk-rock acts are performing at Portsmouth venues this weekend. L.A.-based indie band Lord Huron, which released its latest album, “Vide Noir,” in April, plays at the Prescott Park Arts Festival on Friday, Aug. 3, at 7 p.m. There is an $8-$10 suggested donation. Boston-based singer-songwriter and guitarist Patty Larkin, a founding member of Four Bitchin’ Babes, plays at The Music Hall Loft on Saturday, Aug. 4, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25.
BBQ at Sue’s
A potluck barbecue and daytime show are on tap at Sue’s in Rollinsford on Saturday, Aug. 4. Guests are invited to bring food and drink to share; there will be a grill going in the parking lot. The musical lineup includes N.Y.-based band Jeffery Lewis & Los Bolts, local singer-songwriter Guy Capecelatro III, Ezra Cohen of local bands Notches and Charles, and Mass.-based act Tuft. The event begins at 2 p.m.; tickets are $8-$10. Learn more here.
Tommy Gallant Jazz Fest
Jazz pianist Tommy Gallant was long a staple of the Seacoast jazz scene, teaching at Phillips Exeter Academy and presiding over the Sunday night jazz series at The Press Room. The festival named in his honor has now been running for 23 years. The event on Sunday, Aug. 5, features the Dave Newsam Brazilian Project, Patrice Williamson Quintet, Ryan Parker Septet, and Seacoast Big Band. It takes place from 12-5 p.m.; there is a suggested donation. Learn more here.
Gleaned Garden Supper
Wood-fired pizza, side dishes, desserts, and tastings will be available at Slow Food Seacoast’s Gleaned Garden Supper in Eliot on Sunday, Aug. 5, from 2-6 p.m. It takes place at Shilo Farm, which will use its house-built cob oven to cook the pizzas. The picnic-style supper will use produce gleaned from local farms. There will also be live bluegrass, homestead tours, and lawn games. Tickets are $34 for adults, with discounts for young adults and kids. Learn more here.
For a full calendar of local events, click here.