Category Archives: new hampshire

June 18, 2025

2025 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

Date Of Event: June 12-14

Location: Hampton Beach, 100 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA, 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)

Summary: 10 sand sculptors from all over the world competed in the 25th annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic

Turtles, dream homes and mermaids were just a few of the meticulously crafted sand sculptures on display during the 2025 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire.

But, before the artists begin working on their grand sculptures, they all work together to make the center stage sculptures based on the theme of the competition along with a few sculptures for the sponsors of the event. The theme of this year’s event was “Sand Safari.”

Regardless of the theme of the event, the sculptors are free to make sculptures of any theme they wish. And, each sculpture had an interesting story behind them. Some of the meanings and messages behind the sculptures are fairly straight forward, like the first sculpture posted below.

“Monkey Mind” by Andy Daily (Sarasota, Florida). When I first saw this sculpture I thought the face of the person was Fred Flintstone. Then, just some old guy. It’s actually someone much more well known. Apparently, I should watch the news more often.

“It Won’t Stay Forever” by Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) won third place in the competition.

“Resilience” by David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada). Ducharme described its meaning as, “something that finds life in really a harsh environment” much like how seeds growing through pavement and how it mirrors how people can be strong during difficult times.

“Aligned” by Meliniege Beauregard (Captain Cook, Hawaii) won 1st place as well as the “People’s Choice Award” voted on by the visitors of the sand sculpting event and the “Governor’s Choice Award” voted on by Governor Kelly Ayotte.

Beauregard’s piece is about balance and being aligned your external and internal beauty and well being. She said it was about how when you’re centered and you can align your mental, emotional and physical elements so you can create beauty and be creative.

“Manitouk” by Carl Jara (Cleveland, Ohio)

Jara said “Manitouk” is an Ojibwe term loosely meaning “protector spirit.” According to Jara, this sculpture was a response to the big block of sand and how he saw something different in it than what he had initially planned.

“The Creation Of Mermaid” by Ilya Filimontsev (Moscow, Russia) won second place. Filimontsev said his sculpture was his playful take on the painting of the Creation of Adam by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel.

“Sing” by Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada). Although this sculpture did not win an award or place in the competition, it was still a fan favorite. It was also one of the few sculptures that may have a better design on the back than the front. Fralich said “singing is important for everyone.” Even for non humans!

“To Touch The Stars” by Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia) was a tribute to the artist’s son. This sculpture idea came from when he asked his son what he should make and his son answered a turtle.

“Dream Weaver” by Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA) is a reflection of the 25 years of the sculpting competition and all of the things he has learned during his 24 competitions. That’s right. He has competed in all but one of the sand sculpting classic competitions. Gordon said he combined things like open windows and scallops from his time in Kuwait as examples of things he has learned to sculpt over the years.

“VerTickle” by Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island) won fourth place and, perhaps the most coveted award, the “Sculptor’s Choice Award.” Since the other sculptors know how difficult it is to make these sculptures, one could argue it is the most meaningful award. A play on “vertical”, the sculpture, in Gordon’s words, is “self explanatory.”

Like many people from New England, and, as I noticed from my interactions with people and the various license plates in the parking spaces, from all over the country, I look forward to this event every year. It is also the precursor to the official start of summer. And there may be no better way to kick off the season!

If you did miss the sculptures, don’t fret. They will be on display at Hampton Beach until Monday, June 23.

18 Comments | tags: art, Hampton, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, sand sculptures, sculpture, travel | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

June 23, 2024

2024 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event” June 20-22, 2024

Location: Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA or 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)

Cost: Free

Parking: There is metered parking and several parking lots in the Hampton Beach area. See below for specific details about parking at Hampton Beach

Parking At Hampton Beach

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Summary: Some of the most renown sand sculptures from around the world competed at Hampton Beach in the 24th annual Sand Sculpting Classic event.

“Sand Wars” have come to Hampton Beach! At least that is the theme of this year’s Sand Sculpting Classic.

The center sand sculpture at the Sand Sculpting Classic event has a different theme each year. And, as you may have guessed, the “sand Wars” theme is a play on “Star Wars.” All of the sand sculptors work together to make these impressive sand sculptures. Oddly, the Sand People were not included in these sand sculptures.

While “Sand Wars” was the theme for the center sculptures, the sculptors could make sculptures for any topic or subject.

Battling both a heat wave earlier in the contest to rain on the last day (it is New England after all), the sand sculptors had to work through some difficult conditions. But, as you will see below, the weather didn’t deter them from creating some spectacular works of art.

I am posting the sand sculptures in the order they are located at the beach (from left to right)

“Skin Deep” by Andy Dailey (Sarasota, FL)

The first sand sculpture “Skin Deep” by Andrew Dailey is a sculpture in the form of a mermaid. He said his piece was a statement on the many limitations on what some put on beauty.

“A Step Beyond” – Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) Second Place

Dmitry Klimenko’s sculpture won second place with his sculpture for “A Step Beyond.”

Inception – Melineige Beauregard (Captain Cook, HI) Third Place

Beauregard, who won first place in the competition last year, took third place with “Inception.” She said her sculpture was inspired by how life is “linked through DNA and all of nature.”

“Sofia’s Cradle” – David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada) First Place

In his debut appearance at the Sand Sculpting Classic, Ducharme won first place. His inspiration for this sculpture came in a dream. Recently, Ducharme had a dream about Sofia, the Greek goddess of wisdom. The nest or “cradle” under the goddess is meant to be the nest where wisdom is nurtured.

“Orphan” – Carl D Jara (Lyndhurst, OH) Sculptor’s Choice Award Winner

Carl, who has participated in all 24 sand sculpting events, said this sculpture which depicts a woman surrounded by two extinguished candles was influenced by the loss of both of his parents. His sculpture won the Sculptor’s Choice Award which is voted on by the competing sculptors. Since it is voted by their peers, it is a highly coveted award.

“Imprisoned” – Bruce Phillips (San Diego, CA)

Bruce said his sculpture is about people trapped in mental health issues. The panels surrounding the skull represent the barriers of mental illness.

“Artio” – Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada) People’s Choice Award Winner & The Governor’s Award Winner

Karen said her sculpture was a tribute to the Celtic bear goddess. She also said it represents the strength of a mother bear who protects the Earth. Karen won the People’s Choice Award which is voted on by the people who visit the event as well as the Governor’s Award which was voted on by New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu.

“Neptune Rising” – Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA)

“Open Your Mind & Awaken Your Inner Child” – Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia)

Ile, another newcomer to the event, said this sculpture was inspired by his 20 month old son. Ile jokingly said his son is a “nice troublemaker.” He said he wanted to portray the child as being both playful and happy while the man is very serious, much like himself. He said it is kind of like a self portrait.

“We All Fall Down” – Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island)

There was also a sand sculpture dedicated to the Boston Celtics because of their recent NBA Finals Championship. It is their 18th championship in the team’s history.

As you may have noticed, the inspirations and explanations of the sculptures are just as interesting and moving as the sculptures. Finding about the background of these sculptures adds so much to the artistic value of them.

I wasn’t sure when to go to the beach because of the various, changing weather forecasts predicting scattered showers. Lucky for me, I happened to wake up early enough to get there before the rain started. But, the threat of rain kept a lot of people from going to the beach which allowed me to get photos without many people in the background. As I was finishing the photo shoot it just began to rain. And, if you zoom in and look closely, you may see the rain and even some rain drops on the sculptures.

These sculptures will be up until Wednesday, June 26. They will also be lit up for night time viewing.

32 Comments | tags: Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, sand sculptures | posted in Hampton Beach, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures

July 2, 2023

New Hampshire Marine Memorial (Hampton Beach, Hampton, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits:

Location: Hampton Beach,

Parking:

Cost: Free

New England has a long history of sea faring servicemen and women. Tragically, some of these people were lost to the sea.

These people may have been lost but they are not forgotten. Certainly not by the people of Hampton, New Hampshire or the people who visit the New Hampshire Marine Memorial.

Each year, thousands of people take selfies, admire the beauty of the statue or sit on the bench at the memorial.

I took these photos of the memorial on two different days. The first set of photos were taking after I took photos of the sand sculptures from this year’s Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach and the second set were taken on June 25. Since there are usually crowds there, I went early to avoid the crowds and to get the photos with the serene morning light.

Dedicated to all New Hampshire servicepersons lost at sea due to warfare, the New Hampshire Marine Memorial is a mid-sized statue of New England granite on a tiered granite base. A woman holding a wreath casts her gaze along the water.

Inscribed on the upper (middle) step is the phrase BREATHE SOFT, YE WINDS, YE WAVES IN SILENCE REST. These words are from a poem by John Gay, written in 1714, in his “An Epistle to a Lady.”

Originally, 248 names in 10 rows were added to the back of the memorial with the state seal at each end. Sadly, over time, names have been added. The last name added was on Aug 6, 2022 when Marine Cpl. Jonathan Currier’s name was added to the monument. The 21 year old Cpl. Currier, from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, went overboard in the Sulu Sea off the Philippine coast on Aug. 9, 2018.

What few people may know is the memorial didn’t start out as a memorial. What would become one of the most recognizable memorials in New Hampshire, if not New England, originally began as a grave marker.

William E. Downs of Manchester, NH, had inquired see if the federal government would furnish a grave marker for his son, Captain William D Downs, who was buried at sea May 25, 1945. Little did he know at the time his request would result in such a well known memorial for all service people lost at sea. The memorial would go on to become a memorial to all New Hampshire sons and daughters lost or buried at sea during World War II. In fact, it would go on to remember those lost after World War II.

However, the quest to get the memorial built was a long one. Initially, Downs’ request to have a grave marker built was denied. But Downs did not give up. After many proposals, such as placing the memorial at “Pulpit Rock” at Rye Beach and, after that proposal fell through, “Ragged Neck” at Rye Harbor, Downs was able to gain the support of a memorial from Governor Sherman Adams in 1950. Eventually, the then Governor Hugh Gregg agreed to have the memorial built at Hampton Beach. The statue was dedicated on May 30, 1957 (fittingly Memorial Day). On Veterans Day, 1970, the American Legion Post 35 of the Hamptons, dedicated two flag poles at the monument, which fly the American and state flags.

As you can tell by the events and actions outlined below, there were a lot of people involved in the creation of this memorial.

A design by Concord (NH) resident Alice E. Cosgrove was approved for the 12 foot statue.

Cambridge, Massachusetts sculptor, Teodors Uzarins, was commissioned to model the life-size statue in clay at the Caproni Galleries in Boston. Uzarins, worked closely with Alice, to produce the features that everyone who has seen it remembers.

A 24-ton granite block from Swenson’s Granite Quarries of Concord to sculpt the memorial. That 24 ton granite block was then shipped to Barre, Vermont where it was shaped. It was then sent to Hampton after 17 tons of that block had been removed by Italian artisan, Vincenzo Andreani of Marr and Gordon, Inc., Granite Works. Andreani used a plaster cast of the lady in the memorial for point-by-point measurements.

All of this hard work paid off, as the memorial is not only a respectful tribute to those who have served the country honorably. It is also one of the most recognizable sculptures in New Hampshire.

Click on the link below to see my photos on my Facebook page

:New England Nomad

to see my updated website click below

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9 Comments | tags: New Englaand, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, photos, sculpture | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sculpture

July 2, 2023

Spring 2023

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: Spring, 2023

Locations: All over New England

Since I often visit many locations that I have already posted about previously, I don’t share these photos on my blog. So, I thought I should share some of the photos I post on Facebook from my Spring adventures on here.

As you can see, there are lots of photo opportunities during this season!

Webb Park (Weymouth, MA)

Because of its proximity to my residence and its beautiful views, I often visit Webb Park in Weymouth, MA, particularly during sunset.

Sometimes you’ll have an unexpected visitor

But, Webb Park isn’t just a great place to visit for sunset photos. There can also be some incredible clouds there. As I was taking these photos, all I could think about was how the clouds looked like waves. This strange weather is just an example of the unpredictable and crazy weather we’ve been having around here. There may be fiery skies and warm temperatures one evening and then cold and stormy skies another evening. Just like they say about New England weather. You don’t like it? Wait another 15 minutes!

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Topsfield, MA)

Another one of my favorite haunts that I visit at least once a month regardless of the temperature or conditions is Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield, MA. There is a wide variety of wildlife there and the colors, regardless of the season, are stunning! And, of course, it was ducking season! In first photo in the second ro, the mam goose is keeping her babies warm.

But the highlight of my visit this spring was the Barred Owl (Strix Varia) I saw in May.

Bare Cove Park (Hingham, MA)

Another one of my favorite parks to visit is Bare Cove Park in Hingham, MA

There are pretty sunsets and a variety of wildlife there.

Stanley Park (westfield, MA)

Stanley Park in Westfield, MA, is another one of my favorite places!

There are also lots of wildlife at this park.

Winter Island Light (Salem, MA)

And, of course, I took a trip to my favorite lighthouse, Winter Island Light in April. The day started out dreary with a beautiful blue cloud covering. Then, the clouds broke and the sun made some beautiful colors!

You can view more of my photos here on my Facebook

New England Nomad

or at my newly updated New England Nomad website

Also, if you’re on Facebook and you want to see more photos from New England, please consider joining my Photographers Of New England group!

9 Comments | posted in Massachusetts, nature, New England, new hampshire, spring, Webb Memorial State Park

June 19, 2023

2023 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 18, 2023

Location: Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, 160 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH

Cost: Free

Parking: Metered parking and several parking lots are available in the area. See below for parking restrictions, availability and costs

https://hamptonbeach.org/vacation/parking/

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Summary: Ten sand sculptors put their talent to the test in the 23rd annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic. The sculptures will be available to be viewed until Sunday, June 25 and they are lit up at night

It’s amazing what you can do with sand, especially if you are one of the gifted artists at the Hampton Sand Sculpting Classic.

The sand sculpting event, which took place June 15-17, attracts world renown sculptors from all over the United States and abroad. But, if you pay attention to the event or visit the competition, you may notice some familiar names as many of the artists compete in the event each year. In fact, one of the persons instrumental in the creation of the event, Greg Grady, has competed each year since its inception in 2000.

Some fun facts about the sculptures: 200 tons of sand is imported for the sand sculptors to use for their own sculptures and for the main design. Those sticks on tops of the sculptors you may see in some of the photos are not for artistic value – they are used to prevent birds from landing on the sculptures. And each sculptor is given 10 tons of sand to make their work of art.

Each year, the sand sculpting classic has a different theme. All of the sculptors work together to make the sculptures in the centerpiece design. Some of the themes in previous competitions were “The Greatest Show In Sand” (in 2022) and Sand, Sun and Fun in 2021″ (in 2021 of course). This year’s theme is “The Sand Before Time” with a nod to the Old Man of the Mountain (I had a hard time finding it too).

Although it’s good to see teamwork, this is a competition after all. Each sculptor had 3 (or more like 2 and a half) days to make their sand sculptures. From Thu morning until Saturday afternoon the sculptors toiled away, despite some inclement weather. But, despite the wind and rain they carried on.

The sculptures are listed below in the order they are located. Whenever possible, the meaning or other information about the sculptures are included in the description. The information and quotes were found on the Hampton Beach Facebook page and various new stories.

“Audio Immersion” – Rusty Croft (Carmel, California)

Rusty’s inspiration for this sculpture came from unexpected source; Audible. He said he enjoys listening to audio books. He went on to say how the immersion of a story or music can take you out and how you can be encapsulated by these different mediums, especially when you listen with noise cancelling headphones. This experience of listening to words or music can be immersive to your ears eyes and mind. Rusty also mentioned how the piece shows, “how your mind doesn’t need your eyes to see a vision sometimes, it’s just the audio. The sound comes through without them.” He also made a joke about how he ironically lost his own earbuds in the sand while making this work of art.

“The Devil In The Details” – Chris Guinto (Captain Cook, Hawaii) – Governor’s Choice Award

Chris Guinto secured a spot in next year’s competition by winning the Governor’s Choice award, perhaps not so ironically, with his sculpture “The Devil In The Details.”

“Love Is A Universal Temple” – Melineige Beauregard (Captain Cook, Hawaii) 1st Place Winner & People’s Choice Winner

Melineige, who won first place last year, snagged first place this year as well for her sculpture “Love Is A Universal Temple.” It is also the third time in four years she has won first place in this competition.

Melineige said the sculpture, which shows a mother and child embracing in the shape of a cathedral, was about ” “the feeling of being in love, whether it’s human or animal,” Beauregard said. “It’s very sacred. It is its own temple by itself.”

For her efforts, Melineige was awarded $6,000 for first place and another $1,000 for the People’s Choice Award.

“Obsolete” – Carl Jara (Lyndhurst, Ohio) Third Place

Carl, another familiar face at the competition, won third place for his effort “Obsolete.”

Carl said his sculpture was based on being old and obsolete and was “something of a vulnerable piece” for him. Carl went on to say he has been sculpting for 32 years and sculpting at this event for 23 years (every year it has been held) and he’s seen the progression and change over the years.

“For an old guy like me, you know with years of experience…I don’t have time to innovate again. I feel sometimes a little obsolete,” Carl said explaining his sculpture. He also stated this “old God” feels these same feelings of being obsolete as there are no “new god’s” and, out of sheer frustration, he has thrown his six pack into the TV monitor while he sits on his lounge chair with his fast food or chips by his side.

“Futurism: Man’s Best Friend 2.oh-no” – Greg Grady (New Hampshire)

At this risk of dating myself, all I could think of when I saw this sculpture was Muffet (the dog from the TV show Buck Rogers). If you get that reference, it may be time to join AARP.

“Ascent” – Bruce Phillips (California) Fourth place (tie)

Bruce Phillips said this sculpture is about how Artificial intelligence is basically replacing free thought.

His sculpture tied for 4th place with the next sculpture.

“Raptor Ryder” – Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada)

Karen tied for 4th place with her “Raptor Ryder”. Karen said the inspiration for this sculpture was based on two of her favorite things and was tied into the “Sand Before Time” theme. “Heavy metal and dinosaurs, two of my favorite things” she explained.

“Guardian Of Her Dreams” – Matthew Deibert (New Jersey)

Matthew Deibert, a retired Atlantic City firefighter captain who has been competing in sand sculpting competitions since 1999, made his debut at this competition this year. His piece “Guardian of Her Dreams” depicts a young girl sleeping in bed with her teddy bear, sword in hand, protecting her from nightmares.

“The Struggles We Face”- Josh Gordon (Massachusetts)

Another familiar face at the competition, Josh Gordon, created the sculpture “The Struggles We Face.”

“Dave Is Here” – Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island) Second place & Sculptor’s Choice Award

Abe’s sculpture was a tribute to another sculptor, Dave Andrews.

Abe said he made this sculpture in honor of fellow sand sculptor David Andrews who had previously competed in the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting competition. Sadly, David passed away last year. Abe said the sculpture is for David, “but it’s also for all of us.” He went on to say “David was an incredible guy and sculptor.”

This sculpture of Andrews also won the Sculptors Choice Award, voted on by those competing in the contest.

The sand sculptures are expected to remain up until Sunday, June 25. Then, they will be taken down. They will also be lit up at night for evening viewing.

10 Comments | tags: Hampton Beach, New England, photograhy, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures, travel | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures, travel

October 7, 2022

22nd Annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: June 19, 2022

Location: Hampton Beach, 169 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH

Cost: Free

Parking: Metered parking is available at Hampton Beach. Since this is a popular event, parking is also available at various lots usually for $20 for the day during this event, although prices fluctuate based on the time of day and parking availability

For more parking information see below

https://www.hahttps://www.hamptonbeach.com/directions-parkingmptonbeach.com/directions-parking

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Websites:

https://hamptonbeach.org/events/sand-sculpture-event/

https://hamptonbeach.org/events/sand-sculpture-event/contestants/s:

Summary: Sand sculptors from all over the globe competed for the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting grand prize

It may seem strange to talk to about sand sculptures and the beach during October. But, what better way to feel warm and cozy during these colder days than looking back to this annual summer event.

The theme for this year’s sand sculpture event, which began in 2000, was “The Greatest Show On Earth.” All of the competitors contributed to sculpting the main sculptures for this theme.

I made two visits to the beach to view the sand sculptures which may explain the difference in light and shade in the photos.

I am posting the photos in the order they were located on the beach and including info about each sculpture whenever background details were available..

“Transition” – Rusty Croft (Carmel, CA)

4th Place

As is evident by the gravestone like sculpture, this sculpture is a tribute to a loved one who has “transitioned.” This sculpture placed 4th in the competition. As I was photographing these works of art I found it

“Primal” – Chris Guinto (Captain Cook, HI)

Chris, originally from Florida but currently residing in Hawaii, is no stranger to the competition or to winning awards. He won the Sculptor’s Choice Award in 2021.

He described his dinosaur skeleton (or as he called it “spineasaurus”) coming to life. As you will see as a common feature of these sculptures, the attention to detail is incredible.

“I Am Life” – Melineige Beauregard (Hawaii)

1st Prize and People’s Choice

Melineige, who won the competition in 2017, repeated her standard of excellence with “I Am Life” bringing home first place.

She said the sculpture was based on the “flower of life” design that is present in all of nature and life. According to Melineige, this pattern connects us all through flowers and nature. The front side represents the “flower of life” while the back side represents the death and destruction that is also present in our lives.

“Knowledge Is Limited. Imagination Encircles The World” – John Gowdy (Italy/New Jersey)

This sculpture, based on a quote by Albert Einstein, uses symbols like books, an owl and pen and paper to show the different ways to express knowledge. Again, the attention to detail is amazing.

“Wyvern Whisperer” – Greg Grady (Derry, NH)

Governor’s Choice Award

Grady, another regular competitor and founder of the sand sculpture event, said the inspiration for the sand sculpture the Wyvern (pronounced (why-vurn) Whisperer was his son. His son asked him to make a dragon and they settled on a two legged dragon (wyverns are 2 legged dinosaurs) and he modeled the smaller figure on his son who likes to play “super hero.”

“Linked” – Bruce Phillips (San Diego, CA)

Bruce, from San Diego, CA, said his sculpture represents people and working together.

“Trolls” – Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada)

2md Place

The meaning of this sculpture seems straight forward. Troll-like figures hug, offer treasures and act friendly to the crowned figure while they attempt to stab and mock him to his back

“Entropy” – Carl Jara (Lyndhurst, OH)

3rd Place

“Entropy”, in short a randomness or disorder in the system, certainly does show a disorder and randomness. Jara’s sculpture placed 3rd in the event.

“Let There Be Peace On Earth And Let It Begin With Me” – Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA)

“Hierarchy Of Needs” – Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island, Canada)

Unfortunately, Abe’s sand sculpture collapsed due to weather conditions. So, a photograph of the sculpture was put in its place.

The sand sculptures are usually kept up for a week (in this case until June 26). The sculptures are also lit up for night viewing.

10 Comments | tags: Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photograhy, photos, sand sculptures | posted in Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photography, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

August 6, 2021

Sunrise In The Sunflowers (Coppal House Farm, Lee, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: August 6, 2021 (the annual event is usually held the first Sunday in August)

Location: Coppal House Farm, 118 N. River Rd (rt 155) Lee, NH (about 45 mins southeast of Concord, NH, or one and a half hours northeast of Boston, MA)

Cost: The prices vary depending on when you go and your age. Prices can be found at the link below

https://www.nhsunflower.com/sunflower-festival-info

Parking There was lawn parking for about a couple hundred cars

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: No this was not a dog friendly event

Website: https://www.nhcornmaze.com/

Summary: Coppal House Farm hosted their 7th annual Sunrise In The Sunflowers Festival

Summer, sunrises and sunflower. Who could possibly ask for more?

On August 1, he Coppal House Farm turned their farm into a sunflower paradise.

I arrived at Coppal House Farm bright and early for the “Sunrise In The Sunflowers” event which is particularly popular with photographers of all skill levels. I was surprised to see such a healthy crowd at 5:30 am. As the name of the event would suggest, the sunflowers really do pop with the rays of sun beaming on them. Initially, I was shocked to see the sunflowers were not facing the view of the sunrise. But, then it made complete sense as the sunbeams really hit the flowers and brought out their beauty. This time of day (the golden hour) is the optimal and, in my opinion, only time to photograph these flowers (except for possibly sunset).

I didn’t realize there were other types of sunflowers besides the yellow sunflowers that are so prominent.

There were also several props and decor for people to pose near for portrait shoots.

But there weren’t just sunflowers at the house farm.

There were a variety of different flowers at the farm.

There were also a few spooky trees at the event.

If you do visit Coppal House Farm don’t forget to buy a sunflower to take home or view the animals at the farm.

8 Comments | tags: Coppal House Farm, flowers, Lee, New Englaand, new hampshire, Photography, photos, sunflowers, sunrise, Sunrise In The Sunflowers | posted in flowers, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sunflowers

June 25, 2019

19th Annual Master Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 23, 2019

Location: Hampton Beach, 115 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH

Hours: The beach is accessible daily from dawn until dusk

Cost: Free

Parking: Hampton Beach offers a variety of parking options. If you’re lucky enough to get a parking spot in the main parking area it is $2 an hour during the summer. There are also additional lots that range from 5 to 20 dollars for the day depending on when you arrive. See link for additional parking info: Parking Info

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes but dogs are not allowed on the beach during the summer

Websites: Hampton Beach 19th Annual Master Sand Sculpting Classic

Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic Facebook Page

Hampton Beach

Highlights: sand sculptures

Summary: Ten artists converged upon Hampton Beach to sculpt pieces of work.

Sand sculptors from all over North America showed off their talents during a two day sand sculpting festival at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. If you missed the event but you want to see the works of art in person, don’t fret. The sand sculptures should be up for a while, or at least until Mother Nature says differently. They will be lit up at night until June 27.

In the past, I have spent the second day of the festival at the beach watching and photographing the sculptors at work. However, this was not possible this year. I thought I would head off to the park early Sunday instead. The beach was already packed when I arrived at 7:30 (don’t people sleep in anymore?). But, I was able to get shots of the finished products and a few of the visitors at the beach.

So, with further delay, the winners were…drum roll please…

The winners, which were selected Saturday, June 22, and runner-ups are listed below.

First place went to Melineige Beauregard of Quebec, Canada for “Breaking Out.” Melineige’s sculpture represents people breaking out of our old habits. The child in the back of the sculpture represents our “inner child” breaking out.

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Karen Fralich of Toronto, Canada, snagged second place with “Samurai.” Karen said she saw a photo of a female samurai while she was looking through old photos with her mother and that was the impetus for this work. You may notice needle like objects protruding from the sculpture below and in some of the other sand sculptures. These are meant to keep birds from perching on the sand sculptures.

Third place and also the winner of the “People’s Choice” (in which the visitors at the festival were allowed to vote for their favorite sculpture) and the “Sculptor’s Choice” awards went to Abe Waterman of Prince Edward Island for “Outside In.” He said his sculpture was about how we perceive others and how others perceive us.

“Life Goes On” by David Andrews of Wisconsin placed fourth in the competition. Like many of the artists at the competition, this was not his first rodeo at Hampton Beach. Andrews participated in last year’s competition as well. David said his sculpture was a tree that grew in the remains of a wreckage.

Fifth place went to another Hampton sand sculptor regular, Greg Grady of New Hampshire for “Ask. Seek. Knock.” Greg said his sculpture was about a person seeking answers and reaching out for a spirit and seeking answers to his problems.

The runner ups were still impressive. It almost seems unfair to have to pick one particular sculpture for first place since they all have so much beauty and it is such a subjective process.

“Connected” by Chris Guinto of Key West, Florida, is about a bird flying away from tree it is connected to.

“Plastic” by Carl D Jara of Cleveland, Ohio, explained that he had been thinking of plastic a lot before he planned this sculpture but his thoughts about the idea were negative. He decided to think more positively and this sculpture was the result.

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Marc Lepire from Quebec, Canada, who works not only with sand but also carves ice and wood, sculpted “No Fear.” He said his “dark side” came out while was constructing his piece.

Dan Belcher of Saint Louis, Missouri, sculpted “Hemisphere.” He said that by having a happy face and a sad face in the sculpture, the sculpture shows how we can be a mixture of good and bad. The sculpture depicts our contrasts.

Justin Gordon of Massachusetts created “Hulk 3-D.” According to Justin, the sculpture shows a 3-d like image. By making one hand bigger than the other, Justin tried to show motion in the sculpture. He also said everyone seems to be interested in super hero movies and we’re all looking for a super hero these days. So the sculpture seemed appropriate.

There were also a few cute visitors to view the sand sculptures.

Missy, who will turn 9 in September, is a Golden/Chow mix.

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Chopper is a 3 year old Staffordshire mix.

Cody, a 7 year old Maltese, got around in style at the beach.

10 Comments | tags: beach, dogs, Hampton, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, sand sculptures | posted in dogs, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

December 25, 2017

27th Annual Gingerbread House Contest (Portsmouth, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: December 17, 2017

Location: Discover Portsmouth, 10 Middle Street
Portsmouth NH 03801

Hours: Open March 18, through December 23, 2017, 9:30-5, Daily and First Fridays until 8pm for Art ‘Round Town

Cost: Free

Parking: There are several parking lots in the Portsmouth area. The closest lot to the exhibit is on Bridge St (enter 1 Bridge St in your GPS). It is literally across the street from Discover Portsmouth

Handicapped Accessible:

Website:2017 Gingerbread Houses

Highlights: Gingerbread houses

Tips:

The Gingerbread Houses are on display from Dec.1 until Dec. 23 each year
Most parking lots in the area don’t start charging until 12 p.m. on Sunday, although you can park there by 9 or 10 and park for free until noon time

Each Christmas the Portsmouth Historical Society sponsors a Gingerbread House competition. Besides being delicious looking, the gingerbread houses on display

The houses ranged from the elaborate to basic. Most of the houses were created by children. But there were some adult, non profit, business and family entries as well.

Some of the gingerbread houses already had winning ribbons on them.

Below are all of the gingerbread houses on display before Christmas. They are no longer on display, at least not until next year’s competition.

St. Nichols – Family Entry

The Candy Factory – Youth Group

Candy Factory Restaurant – Youth Group

The Ox Cart Man _ Youth Group

Candy Land – Family Entry

Winter Lighthouse – Youth Group entry

Holiday Lighthouse – Youth Group entry

The Holiday barn – Youth group entry

The Yummy House _ Youth Group entry

John Paul Jones House (a replica of the landmark house on the same street as the historical society) – Adult Entry

The Ice House – Adult Entry

Cottage Christmas – Youth Group entry

Lost In The Snow – Family Entry

Montessori Magic On Dover’s 6th Street – Adult Entry

Home Sweet Home – Youth Group

Surf Shop – Youth Group Entry

Candyland Palace – Youth Group

The Skating Snowflake Lodge – Youth Group

The Year Santa Got Stuck – Adult Entry

Frozen Wonderland – Family Entry

Day After The Storm – Youth Group

Fisher Cat Express – Youth Group

We Fish You A Merry Xmas – Family Entry

Panda Christmas – Family Entry

The Elves Garden – Youth Group

The Island Villa – Youth Group

Cindy Lou Who Gets An IPhone – Adult Entry

Gingerbread Council – Organization Entry

Gingerbread Mouse – Family Entry

The Moffatt-Ladd House – Business Entry

Bright Lights And Nothing But Blue Skies

Stained Glass Cathedral – Adult Entry

The Winter House – Youth Group

The Christmas Barn – Youth Group

Winter Camping – Youth Group

Easy Peasy Winter Breezy – Youth Group

Mushroom Castle – Youth Group

Snowy Cottage – Youth Group

Winter In Paradise Falls – Youth Group

The Ginga Ninja’s of New Castle – Youth Group

Sweet Holiday – Adult Entry

Madi’s House – Youth Group

Harborside Christmas – Youth Group

Candy Village – Family Entry

Bunny School – Youth Group

Snowy Land Stadium – Youth Group

Arrested For Breaking And Entering – Adult Entry

Winter House – Youth Group

Pink Wonderland – Youth Group

Santa’s Snow Coaster – Family Entry

The Lonely Lodge – Youth Group

Winter Wonderland – Youth Group

Sweet Shack – Youth Group

Christmas In Gillette – Business Entry

Emmet’s House – Youth Group

The Candy House – Family Entry

Celebrating Together Because Families Come First – Nonprofit Entry

Halloween Hut – Youth Group

Elf Village _ Youth Group

Hansel & Gretel’s Mansion – Youth Group

Hurricane Irma – Youth Group

Troop Club House – Youth Group

Snowmobile – Youth Group

The House Of Candy Past – Family Entry

California Garden – Family Entry

The Three Disney Eers – Youth Group

Fort Constitution – Youth Group

Hoping For A White Christmas (and their wish came true) – Family Entry

Temple Israel In Honor Of Rabbi Senter – Adult Entry

The Village – Youth Group

Santa’s Coming – Adult Entry

Castle Byers – Youth Group

Christmas House – Youth Group

The Babysitting Palace – Youth Group

Merrily We Go Around – Business/Non-Profit Entry

Little Harbor Chapel – Adult Entry

Polar Pond – Youth Group

Igloo Oasis – Youth Group

The Crusher – Youth Group

Meowy Christmas – Family Entry

Cutts Mansion – Adult Entry

Looking at all of those gingerbread houses can make you hungry. Not to worry. The historical society has your back. Cans of loose candy are scattered throughout the displays.

The historical society was decorated tastefully for the holiday event.

After viewing the gingerbread houses, visitors were given the opportunity to build their own gingerbread houses on the second floor of the historical society.

Which gingerbread house(s) did you like best?

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and a very happy and successful 2018!

6 Comments | tags: Christmas, Discover Portsmouth, Gingerbread Houses, holidays, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, photos, portsmouth | posted in Christmas, Discover Portsmouth, Gingerbread Houses, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, portsmouth, Uncategorized

December 22, 2017

Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge (Newington, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: September 23, 2017

Location: Arboretum Drive West, Newington, New Hampshire

Hours: open daily, dawn to dusk

Cost: Free

Handicapped Accessible: Yes, some trails have boardwalks and are not too steep or difficult

Parking: There are about 40 parking spaces in the main parking area (people do park on the side of the road when the spaces fill up)

Website: Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Trail Map: Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge Trail Map

Trail Size/Difficulty: 1,000 acres, easy to moderate trails

Highlights: easy trails, scenic views, boardwalks, wildlife

Tips:

mosquitoes, ticks and poison ivy are a common issue at the refuge
bald eagles, especially during the winter, are a common sight there

One of the more overlooked parks in New Hampshire, Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, pretty flowers (when in bloom) and scenic views.

Great Bay has a boardwalk with an overlook at the main trail at the parking area.

Across from the main parking area is a fenced off area that was once used to be used as a weapons storage area for the nearby Pease Air Force Base.

The trails at Great Bay are fairly easy with a few very moderate inclines.

There is a bridge along the trail as well as an overlook with a view of the bay.

When I went to visit there were still lots of flowers in bloom.

There were lots of chipmunks and squirrels scurrying around gathering acorns for the upcoming winter. I saw this little critter while I was walking along the boardwalk. If you look closely, you can see what looks like a cut or injury to his or her head just above his or her left eye. It is a sign of how unyielding and harsh nature can be. But, it is also a sign of how resilient and hardy animals are regardless of their size. I have to admit I wanted to take this little fella home and nurse the chipmunk back to health. But, as you can see from the photo, wildlife has a way of healing and surviving.

Chipmunks aren’t the only animals at the refuge. There are birds, turkeys and turtles as well as other types of wildlife and insects there.

The one downside of Great Bay, for me at least, is that dogs are not allowed there. However, I did see some evidence of them and I do think they visit from time to time, although I did not see any during my visit.

Leave a comment | tags: birds, chipmunks, New England, new hampshire, Newington, photographs, Photography, photos, scenic, turkeys, turtles | posted in Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge, New England, new hampshire, Newington, park, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized, wildlife

New England Nomad

Category Archives: new hampshire

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27th Annual Gingerbread House Contest (Portsmouth, NH)

Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge (Newington, NH)

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