Dragon Boat Racing | Things to Do on Lake Winnipesaukee

One of the best parts about spending time on Lake Winnipesaukee is you never know what kind of activities you may find. Lake life can bring about many exciting water sports, but arguably none are as demanding for participants as dragon boat racing. This unique spectator sport has a deep-rooted history and has grown in popularity around the world; and has become a yearly event on Weirs Beach in Laconia. And The NASWA Resort is just the place to stay for easy access to all the fun!

Dragon’s head with dragon boat racing team at the back

Lake Winnipesaukee Dragon Boat Festival

Originating in China, dragon boat racing is a team sport consisting of a crew of up to fifty paddlers! Teams furiously paddle to the finish line, like any other race, and whichever boat crosses first wins. Our Lake Winnipesaukee version is a little more laid-back, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be competitive! This year’s Dragon Boat Festival will benefit Gilda’s Club New Hampshire, an affiliate of the cancer support community. We’re proud to show our support by hosting the “Awakening of the Dragons” Ceremony to kick off the festival.

What to Know About Dragon Boat Racing

Dragon boat racing is a little more complex than just a bunch of people paddling like mad. Each paddler must sync with their team, led by the rhythm of a vital member known as a drummer. There is also a “steer person” at the back of the boat responsible for maneuvering. Although no experience is necessary, you may want to build arm strength before taking on such a challenge. Teamwork is a crucial aspect of this unique sport. Boats compete at the same time, so coordination is paramount to success.

Not Your Typical Lake Winnipesaukee Hotel

If you’re interested in participating in this year’s dragon boat racing event, check out the Gilda’s Club website for more information. They’ll provide you with boats, paddles, life jackets, practice time, and officiating. The minimum age to participate is 13 years old. Participation requires a donation, and spectators are encouraged to donate as well. And if you want a front-row seat for all the action, look no further than The NASWA Resort! For more information or to book your stay, please get in touch with us online or call 888-55-NASWA.

Spend the Day at Franconia Notch State Park

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountain Natural Forest, Franconia Notch State Park is one of the prettiest places in the Granite State, offering the perfect add-on destination for anyone looking for a complete New Hampshire getaway. Teeming with activities and amenities that make New Hampshire unique, Franconia Notch is worthy of your consideration. What’s more, The NASWA Resort is less than an hour away, making it the perfect base camp to explore everything this local favorite has to offer.

Places of Interest at Franconia Notch State Park

Flume Gorge

An 800-foot gorge at the base of Mount Liberty, Flume Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder. Taking the two-miles long Flume Trail gets you out in nature as you hike to the Conway granite walls that rise to almost 100 feet overhead with a gap of just 12 feet from wall to wall. The hike takes you through the natural beauty of this part of New Hampshire, with the vibrant greens of mosses contrasting with colorful wildflowers.

 

Cannon Aerial Tram

Echo Lake

Echo Lake sits at almost 2,000 feet, with dazzling views of Cannon Mountain and Mt. Lafayette. The lake office offers canoe, kayak, and paddle boat rentals, so being on the water for part of the day is a highly recommended adventure. Fun fact: Echo Lake is a tributary of the Connecticut River.

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Climbing to the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain is a lot of work after hiking a gorge and kayaking a lake. Instead, take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway! This engineering marvel takes passengers up 2,180 vertically to an area with walking trails to an observation tower and cafe on the summit. Cannon Mountain is also a significant draw in the winter, with 97 ski trails and slopes to explore.

Your Favorite New Hampshire Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee

The NASWA Resort bills itself as the “Quintessential Lake Winnipesaukee Resort,” and it is easy to see why. The NASWA offers convenient on-site restaurants, the longest private sandy beach on the lake, and complimentary dock space for guests to bring their boats. And with easy access to Franconia Notch State Park and other offsite destinations, you’ll be well on your way to a memorable New Hampshire getaway. Accommodation options for groups of all sizes include suites and cottages. Check availability and book now!

 

When staying in the New Hampshire Lakes Region, check out The NASWA Resort for a unique getaway experience on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.

22 Things to Do in New Hampshire During Your Summer Getaway

One of the perks of having your summer getaway in New Hampshire is you can seamlessly find many fun activities. The Granite State doesn’t cover as much area as many other states, but that makes it easier to see more! With so many things to do in New Hampshire during the warmest part of the year, you’ll want a place to retreat to after each exciting day. The NASWA Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee is the perfect place to branch out from as you explore the Lakes Region and beyond. To give you a few ideas of must-see attractions, landmarks, and events, we put together a list of 22 things you should consider during your vacation.

Fun Things to Do, Visit, and See in New Hampshire

Laconia’s centralized location makes it easy to travel to various summer attractions with friends and family. You’ll undoubtedly create lasting memories in New Hampshire as you notch each item off your list. Here are some of our nearby favorites.

Hotel Resorts in New Hampshire | Lake Winnipesaukee

Now that you have a relatively extensive list of things to do in New Hampshire, it’s time to start planning your getaway! The NASWA Resort has played host to friends and families for generations, so we know what it takes to have an unforgettable vacation. And the only thing that could make exploring our beloved state any better is knowing you’ll have a welcoming place to call home during your stay. Please reach out online or call 888-55-NASWA today to learn more about how The NASWA can help fulfill your New Hampshire summer vacation experience.

New Hampshire Summer | Lake Winnipesaukee Events

A full marina is one of the many staples of a New Hampshire summer in Laconia.In December, we shared a blog with an overview of things to do in Laconia, New Hampshire, this summer. Now that we’re inching closer to the sunny season, we think it would be fitting to provide something more specific. New Hampshire summer vacations—especially in the Lakes Region—are known to offer a little bit of something for everyone. Whether it’s a boat party in Paugus Bay or hiking the rugged trails throughout the White Mountains, there seems to be an endless supply of fun around every corner. As such, The NASWA Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee is preparing to meet the needs of friends and families who have been itching to enjoy fabulous weather and a bevy of local attractions and events.

New Hampshire Summer Events near Lake Winnipesaukee

One of the fascinating aspects of the New Hampshire Lakes Region is the seemingly limitless possibilities for fun in the sun! Local celebrations and events play a significant role in providing a whole gamut of entertainment. Here are some of our favorites at The NASWA:

  • Memorial Day Weekend is when we honor the lives of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to serve our country. With live music, beautiful scenery, and food galore, what better way to kick off another New Hampshire summer?
  • NASWA’s 86th Anniversary is a holiday in Laconia when we celebrate another year of unrivaled hospitality. Our ideal location will generously lend itself to a detailed itinerary for anyone traveling in the White Mountains. We’ll follow the weekend up with NASWA Day on June 29.
  • 4th of July w/ Sam Adams is a birthday bash for America sponsored by Sam Adams Brewery. Throughout the day, we’ll have plenty of giveaways, games, and contests followed by the Weirs Beach fireworks demonstration witnessed from The NASWA. Celebrate Your Independence with Sam Adams July 1-4!
  • Easter Seals Poker Run, presented by HK Powersports, has various routes and pick-up locations for boaters, bikers, drivers, kayakers, and more to grab poker chips to turn in at the end of the event. This year we’ll celebrate the 20th Anniversary and have raised over $1.3 million dollars for Easter Seals of NH. Family fun while doing good for the community!
  • Parrothead Weekend is proof there is a Margaritaville on Lake Winnipesaukee. Live music, great food, and of course, cocktails will take your cares away at the end of July.
  • 80’s Weekend brings us back to a simpler time characterized by big hair, radical tunes, and vegging out after a totally tubular shindig and 80’s costume contest.
  • Reggae Fest be jammin’ mon as we transform Laconia into “Little Kingston!” Celebrate everything reggae with live music and Jamaica-inspired cocktails.
  • Nazville Country Weekend is the perfect time to practice your best do ce do and line dancing. It’s not every day you get to see a cowboy in sandals!

Peter Makris Memorial Run & Laconia Motorcycle Week

The 15th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Run and Laconia Motorcycle Week are such staples that we had to provide a separate section. The Peter Makris Memorial Run serves as the official kick-off day for Bike Week to commemorate community leader, biker, boater Peter Makris and his dedication to various important causes, like Laconia FD’s Life Saving Fund. Furthermore, The NASWA Resort will serve as Laconia Motorcycle Week’s Official Hotel. In our Patriarch’s memory, we have raised over $475,000 for the Laconia FD Life Saving Fund and Veterans Count. All in all, Bike Week is a momentous occasion for NASWA and the Lakes Region, and we hope you’ll be there! 

The Best Lake Resort for a New Hampshire Summer Vacation

In addition to the various events at The NASWA Resort, the Lakes Region has a bevy of entertainment and attractions available for your enjoyment. New Hampshire summer vacations are always a bit more extravagant on Lake Winnipesaukee, and we’d like to show you why! For more information or to make reservations, please contact us online or call 888-55-NASWA.

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