🎃 Haunts & Halloween Happenings Around Lake Winnipesaukee

1. Haunted Winnipesaukee Ghost Story Cruise

Set sail on a 90-minute evening cruise out of Laconia, where live actors regale you with tales of cursed lands, haunted hotels, mysterious fires, and unsolved disappearances.
Offered Thursday through Saturday evenings in September and October.

2. Halloween Masquerade Ball Cruise

Wrap up the season in style aboard a three-hour cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee featuring a buffet dinner, live entertainment, seasonal treats, and a costume contest (21+ attendees).

3. Charity Haunted Halloween Hike & Hayride

Join a spine-tingling walk through the woods and an eerie hayride, capped off with a bonfire, bounce house, treats, and goodies. The setting changes, props vary each year, keeping it fresh and surprising.

4. Spooktacular Weekend at Strafford / Lake Winnipesaukee KOA

From October 3 to 5, the KOA campground embraces Halloween fun with themed activities spread across the grounds. Perfect for families and campers wanting to lean into the spooky side of the fall season.

5. Lakes Region’s Ghostly & Seasonal Lineup

The broader Lakes Region puts on a host of Halloween-friendly attractions: haunted trails, storytelling nights, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, ghost tours, and the occasional surprise event popping up as the season deepens.

🎃 Additional Halloween Events Around the Lake Winnipesaukee Area

Alton, NH

• Alton Trick-or-Treat (October 31, 5:00 pm–7:00 pm) — the town designates “Halloween Hours” for safe trick-or-treating.

• Alton Halloween Parade & Route Event — a community parade through town, with costumed participants, floats, and local festivity.

• “Legends of the Haunted Woods” Night Woods Walk — a guided evening walk through local woods with spooky storytelling and ambient scares.

• Monster Mash Halloween Bash / Halloween Photo Booth — family-oriented gatherings with costumes, music, and photo ops.

Wolfeboro, NH

• Millie B Haunted / Spooky Boat Rides — seasonal 45-minute rides from Wolfeboro Town Docks, with twilight or dusk schedules.

• Wolfeboro Trick-or-Treat (October 31, 5:00 pm–7:00 pm) — official hours for trick-or-treating in town.

Meredith, NH

• Trick-or-Treating in Meredith (October 31, 5:00 pm–8:00 pm) — designated time window for local households and businesses.

• Haunted Walks, Corn Mazes & Fall Attractions — seasonal “haunted house” or “haunted trail” style offerings arranged by local farms or event groups.

Laconia, NH

• Laconia Pumpkin Festival (October 25) — street festival with pumpkin displays, music, family activities, food vendors, costume events, and more.

• Runaway Pumpkin 5K & 10K / Kids Fun Run — a festive themed run/walk to kick off the day’s events.

• Halloween Diamond Art Magnets Workshop (ages 10-18) — a pre-Halloween craft event held in late October in the Laconia community.

• Ghost Tours, Haunted Histories, Flashlight Mazes & Movie Screenings — events tied into the Pumpkin Festival weekend or scheduled around Halloween in downtown Laconia.

Gilford, NH

• Gilford Trick-or-Treat Hours (October 31, 5:00 pm–8:00 pm) — designated window for trick-or-treating in town.

• “Halloween Happening” or similar themed community event — past years have seen Gilford host evening fall/festival gatherings, likely with costume contests, pumpkin carving, or family entertainment.

🏙️ Notable Halloween Events in Nearby Cities & Towns

If you’re up for a short road trip, these events are within reasonable driving distance and worth the visit.

Boston, MA

• Pumpkin Festival & activities at Boston Common (e.g. Frog Pond)

• Outdoor Halloween movie nights (e.g. “Ghostbusters,” “Hocus Pocus”)

• Costume parades, public markets, ghost tours, and theme parties

Portland, ME

• “Hoot & Howl” family festivals at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine

• Downtown trick-or-treat on Exchange Street

• After Dark Halloween (21+ event with haunted exhibits and seasonal treats)

• Costume contests and dance parties at local venues

Portsmouth, NH

• The Portsmouth Halloween Parade (October 31 at 7 p.m.) — community walk, dress-up, and street festivities

New Hampshire region

• Halloween-themed attractions, haunted houses, corn mazes, ghost walks, and seasonal fairs across the state

• Happy Hauntings at Story Land: classic Halloween activities like trick-or-treating and pumpkin painting

🧙‍♂️ Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Halloween Season

• Check schedules and buy tickets in advance. Many cruises, haunted walks, and performances require reservations, especially on weekends.

• Dress for the weather. Evening chill is common — layers, costumes with warmth, and good footwear help.

• Scout haunted credentials. Some “haunts” are high scares; others skew family-friendly. Know ahead what kind of experience you want.

• Mix and match. You can pair a spooky evening cruise with a daytime pumpkin event, or combine a haunted trail with a city ghost walk.

• Use lakewinnipesuakee.net as your local event dashboard. For the most up-to-date listings, maps, and ticket links, that site will be your best resource.

Prepping Boats & Docks for Winter in the Lakes Region

As the crisp air drifts over Lake Winnipesaukee and the last of the fall foliage fades from the surrounding hills, lake residents and boat owners know what comes next—winter preparation. The transition from boating season to the long, cold New Hampshire winter isn’t just about saying goodbye to warm afternoons on the water; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring everything is ready for the next season of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned lake homeowner or new to the region, properly prepping your boats and docks for winter can save time, money, and headaches when spring returns.

Understanding the Winnipesaukee Winter

Lake Winnipesaukee’s winters are as breathtaking as they are brutal. Ice can thicken to over a foot in many areas, winds sweep across the open bays, and temperatures regularly plunge well below freezing. This environment creates stress on docks, pilings, and any vessel left unprotected. Because of the lake’s size and varying depths, some coves freeze early while others remain open longer, creating unique challenges for each property owner. The key to winter readiness is preparation—anticipating the conditions before they arrive.

Step 1: Hauling and Storing Your Boat

The first and most important task is getting your boat out of the water before ice begins to form. Ideally, this should happen by late October or early November, depending on the year’s weather patterns. Most marinas around the lake offer haul-out services, but those handling their own removal should choose a calm, dry day and ensure all lifting equipment is rated for their boat’s weight.

Once out of the water, the next step is thorough cleaning and inspection. Wash the hull, remove any algae or residue, and check for cracks, blisters, or loose fittings. Drain all water from the bilge, live wells, and engine to prevent freezing damage. If the boat has an inboard or stern drive motor, follow manufacturer guidelines for winterization—this usually includes running antifreeze through the system and fogging the engine cylinders to prevent corrosion.

Fuel tanks should be filled to around 90% capacity to minimize condensation but not so full that expansion causes leaks. Adding a quality fuel stabilizer helps prevent the gasoline from breaking down during storage. Remove batteries, electronics, and valuables before covering the boat, and store these items in a dry, temperature-controlled location.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Cover

When it comes to protecting your boat through winter, the right cover makes all the difference. Many Winnipesaukee owners opt for shrink wrap, which creates a tight seal against snow, ice, and moisture. Others prefer reusable canvas covers, which are more eco-friendly and easier to remove come spring. Whatever option you choose, ensure the cover is properly vented to prevent mold and mildew buildup. The frame supporting the cover should be sturdy enough to shed heavy snow and ice without collapsing.

If your boat is being stored outdoors, elevate it slightly off the ground to allow airflow underneath and to prevent moisture from seeping into the hull. Even if the vessel is kept indoors, keep the cover in place to protect it from dust and rodents.

Step 3: Winterizing the Dock

Docks are as vulnerable to winter’s wrath as the boats they serve. Ice movement, strong winds, and heavy snow loads can damage pilings, warp decking, or even pull entire sections loose. The type of dock you own—floating, crib, or permanent—determines the right approach.

• Floating docks: These are generally the easiest to winterize. Most owners either tow them into protected coves or remove sections and store them on land. If left in the water, disconnect the gangway and secure the dock in a deeper area where ice movement is minimal.

• Crib docks: Built from stone or timber frames, crib docks are more permanent but also more susceptible to ice pressure. Bubblers or de-icers should be installed around the structure to keep water moving and prevent solid freeze-up.

• Permanent or piling docks: These require close inspection each year. Check all bolts, braces, and welds for signs of corrosion or looseness. Adding a de-icing system or air circulator can help extend the life of these structures by reducing freeze expansion stress.

Many property owners along Lake Winnipesaukee use bubbler systems, which circulate warmer water from deeper layers to keep the area around docks ice-free. These systems can be especially valuable in tight coves or shallow areas where ice buildup is strongest. Always ensure cords and electrical systems are properly grounded and inspected before installation.

Step 4: Protecting Shoreline Equipment

Winter prep isn’t just about the boat and dock—it’s also about the gear that supports your lake lifestyle. Kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes should be rinsed, dried, and stored indoors or on elevated racks. Boat lifts should be raised above the waterline or disassembled and moved to higher ground. Power cords, hoses, and dock lines should be coiled neatly and stored in waterproof containers. This not only keeps them in good condition but also prevents them from freezing to surfaces or becoming tangled under snow.

If your property includes a boathouse, make sure it’s sealed from drafts and pests. Inspect roof shingles, doors, and windows to prevent water infiltration, and consider installing a small dehumidifier or moisture absorber to prevent mildew.

Step 5: Inspect and Document

Before the snow flies, take detailed photographs of your dock, boat, and shoreline setup. These will serve as valuable documentation if you ever need to file an insurance claim for storm or ice damage. Make a checklist of everything you’ve done and schedule reminders to inspect your property periodically throughout the winter. Even a mid-season visit to check bubblers, covers, and snow load can prevent major repairs later.

Step 6: Looking Ahead to Spring

When everything is prepped and secure, you can finally relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of winter on Lake Winnipesaukee. Ice fishing shanties, cross-country skiing trails, and frozen sunsets all become part of the lake’s seasonal rhythm. Knowing your equipment is safe and sound allows you to fully embrace this transformation.

As winter progresses, keep an eye on lake conditions via local updates and webcams. When spring thaw approaches, start planning your reinstallation schedule early—marinas and contractors get busy quickly once “ice-out” is declared. Reviewing your notes from the previous fall makes the spring setup smoother and helps identify any repairs needed before launching again.

Final Thoughts

Prepping your boat and dock for winter may seem like a chore, but it’s really an act of stewardship—protecting both your property and the pristine waters of Lake Winnipesaukee. Each step, from draining fuel lines to wrapping hulls, contributes to preserving the lake lifestyle for generations to come. The work you put in now ensures that when the loons return and the ice begins to melt, your boat will be ready to glide once more across the mirror-calm water.

For more information, local guides, and seasonal updates, visit LakeWinnipesaukee.net — your year-round source for news, history, and life on the lake.

Citations:
LakeWinnipesaukee.net — Seasonal Guides and Local Resources
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department — Boating and Dock Regulations
NH Department of Environmental Services — Winter Dock Maintenance Recommendations

Fishing Through the Chill: Fall & Winter Angling Around Lake Winnipesaukee

As the leaves turn gold and the first frost glimmers across quiet bays, the Lakes Region enters a new—but no less magical—season for anglers. While summer might draw the largest crowds to our waters, fall and winter bring a quieter, more contemplative side of fishing, with fresh challenges, stark beauty, and rewarding rewards. Whether you cast from a pontoon in October or set up a bob house on the ice in February, here’s how to make the most of cold-weather fishing around Lake Winnipesaukee and the nearby lakes.

Why Fish in Fall & Winter?

1. Cooler waters, active fish

As water temperature drops, many fish species become more active in mid-depths, moving nearer to structure or transitions. For species like smallmouth and largemouth bass, late fall is prime time to hit drop-offs, boulder fields, or submerged structure.
On big lakes (like Winnipesaukee), species such as landlocked salmon, lake trout, and white perch remain reachable through the ice once safe conditions allow. (Guides on Winnipesaukee regularly target lake trout and white perch in winter.)

2. Less pressure, more solitude

Once summer’s crowds fade, many lakes become serene. Anglers can access remote coves or stretch line without competing with dozens of boats.

3. Tournaments and traditions

Lake Winnipesaukee hosts two prominent open water fishing derbies each year, offering generous prizes and celebrating the region’s angling culture. lakewinnipesaukee.net+1
On the hard water side, the Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby is a long-standing winter tradition (for example, the 47th annual derby is slated for February 7–8, 2026). icefishingnh.com
These events create great community energy, but many anglers also enjoy solitary days on the ice or quiet boats in fall.

Target Lakes & Hot Spots

While Lake Winnipesaukee is the region’s marquee body, many surrounding lakes and ponds also shine in fall/winter:

• Lake Winnipesaukee — its size and depth support cold-water species like lake trout, landlocked salmon, and white perch. Guided ice fishing is available.

• Nearby smaller lakes and ponds — as soon as ice is safe, many support warmwater species (perch, pickerel, bass) through the ice. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department+1

• Tributary or connecting ponds — ideal in fall when fish may stage before moving into main lake basins.

• While Lake Winnipesaukee remains the crown jewel for both open-water and ice fishing, several nearby lakes and ponds offer great cold-season opportunities:

  • Lake Winnipesaukee: Deep water, diverse species, and plenty of access points for both boats and ice anglers.

  • Squam Lake & Little Squam: Known for lake trout, whitefish, and yellow perch.

  • Newfound Lake: Clear, cold water supports trophy trout fishing.

  • Waukewan & Winnisquam Lakes: Excellent for panfish, bass, and pickerel in early winter.

  As always, check local ice conditions before venturing out — early-season ice can vary widely from bay to bay.

If you want, I can identify a map of ideal lakes around Winnipesaukee with hotspots to fish in fall & winter for your readers.

Transitioning from Fall to Ice — What You Need to Know

Launching & Boating in Cold Weather

• Pre-winter prep: Before cold sets in, check and winterize motors, battery systems, fuel lines, and electronics. Ensure bilge pumps (or live wells) won’t freeze up.

• Warm layers & gear: Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, waterproof outer shells, insulated gloves, and sturdy boots. Bring extra gloves or socks.

• Ice transition caution: Watch for “slush ice” near shore or warming bays. Use sounders or sonar to watch bottom as you approach shallower water.

• Reduce weight & speed slowly: As water densifies, drag increases. Use conservative throttle changes. Avoid sudden planing in cold water to reduce gear stress.

• Safe docking & tie-offs: Ice shards or frozen surfaces around docks may be fragile. Use fenders, avoid scraping the hull or prop against unseen ice.

Making Holes in the Ice & Setting Up Bob Houses

• When is it safe?
  The general rule of thumb is 4–6 inches of clear, solid ice can support a person on foot; 8–10 inches is safer for a snowmobile or light ATV. Visit NH
  However, ice thickness is rarely uniform. Always test (augur, ice chisel) in multiple spots starting from shore outward. Local conditions, currents, springs, or underwater features can weaken ice unpredictably.

• Drilling holes
  Use a gas or electric auger (or manual spud bar in shallow spots). Holes are often cut 6–10 inches in diameter. Keep a hand auger as backup (in case your power auger fails).
  Place holes near structure, depth changes, or known fish paths.
  Clear all snow/ice shavings from around the hole to prevent slipping or refreezing obstructions.

• Bob houses (ice shanties)
  These little shelters range from simple sled-mounted shacks to sophisticated cabins with heaters, electronics, and comforts. The shelter protects you from wind, gives a stable platform to fish, and helps retain warmth.
  Many anglers build in features like built-in hole covers, vents, light ports, insulation, and quick exits.
  Be careful: shelter heat (if uncontrolled) can melt ice beneath, so use safe heaters or place insulation boards under high heat sources.

• Leave no trace
  Keep the lake pristine. Pack out all trash, line wrappers, spent bait containers, old tip-up parts — anything you bring in should leave with you. (This is not only respectful, it helps sustain fish habitat for future seasons.) NH LAKES

Safety Tips for Cold-Weather Angling

• Always fish with a partner (if possible). If heading out solo, tell someone your route, time out/in, and check in.

• Carry ice picks / ice claws — in the event you fall through ice, these help you climb out.

• Bring rope & throw bag — an adjustable rope (50 ft or more) and a floating throw bag can assist rescues.

• Wear a life jacket or floatation suit — it might seem overkill on ice, but if you break through, buoyancy helps keep you afloat.

• Avoid fishing in night or low visibility unless absolutely confident in ice and conditions.

• Monitor weather & ice reports — sudden thaws or rain can severely weaken ice.

• Check for “safety traffic patterns” — keep away from areas where snowmobiles or heavy vehicles regularly travel unless you’re sure the ice supports heavier loads.

Strategy, Tactics & Species Notes

• Depth & structure — fish often hold over drop-offs, ledges, rock piles, sunken structure, or weed edges.

• Jigs & tip-ups — use light jigs for bass/perch; for deeper species, lower heavier jigs or spoons. Tip-ups work well for species like white perch or trout, letting you tend multiple holes.

• Vary presentation — small twitches, pauses, subtle changes in depth all help coax bites when fish slow.

• Watch the light — mornings and late afternoons often trigger more aggressive feeding.

• Respect seasons & regulations — in New Hampshire, many species can be targeted by ice fishing only January 1 – March 31 for lake trout or salmon in designated waters. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department+2eRegulations+2
  Always check the NH Freshwater Fishing Digest for bag limits, size limits, and species rules.

Why It’s Worth It

There’s something deeply pure about standing on a frozen lake at dawn, the world hushed except for the soft tick of a tip-up flag, breathing cold air, wrapped against the elements. When a strike registers, the tug through the hole feels immediate and intimate. Winter fishing is a slower sport—less about speed and more about patience, observation, and finesse. And when you land a trout, perch, or salmon in those quiet hours, the reward feels profound.

Add in the community of derbies, the camaraderie of setting up shacks on the ice, and the seasonal beauty around Winnipesaukee — it becomes more than a hobby; it becomes tradition.