Outdoor Portrait-- Sunday, June 6, 1-3pm. An intermediate-level workshop that teaches camera techniques and settings, framing the picture, establishing a goal, direct and indirect lighting and using nature. Models will be used in practice shoots. Members $35, nonmembers $45.
Bring your own film or digital camera and two rolls of 36 picture film or a 1 gig camera card. To register call Portrait Design Photography 603-622-1001. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse classroom.
Saturday, June 19, 9am-noon
19th Annual Plant Sale
The Fells nursery staff offers an outstanding selection of quality perennials and shrubs from regional nurseries as well as those propagated and field dug from The Fells very own gardens. Get friendly advice from expert Fells gardeners! Open to members 8-9am and to the general public at 9am. Members, bring your membership cards and save 10%! Rain or shine. Held in The Fells Gatehouse Courtyard.
The Fells Main House and Shop commence summer hours.
Take a historic guided tour of the 22 room Colonial Revival Main House, learn about the Hays and get a glimpse into 19th century life on a New Hampshire summer estate. Tour the expansive gardens, visit the children's Fairy Village or go for an easy hike on the John Hay Ecology Trail. For hours, fees and schedule of tours click Hours.
Art at The Fells: Celebrating New Hampshire Family Farms
Exhibit Opening--June 26, 5:30-8:30pm, $50 per person. Reservations requested.
(Exhibit runs June 23 through October 11.)
Thank You, Newbury!
Saturday and Sunday, July 10-11, dawn to dusk
Main House open 10am-4pm
The Fells is proud to be part of Newbury's historic heritage and civic-minded spirit, and we gladly extend an invitation to Newbury residents, town employees, civic volunteers, and their immediate families, to tour the gardens, trails, and Main House of The Fells, free of charge throughout this weekend. Please check in at the Kiosk to register for a drawing for a free family membership.
Trail-walk: Good Bugs, Bad Bugs
Sunday, July, 11, 10-11:30am
Most of the insects that call your yard home are beneficial or benign--they pollinate plants, aerate the soil and consume debris. But there are also bad bugs lurking in your gardens like white grubs, scale, aphids and the invasive Hemlock Wooly Adelgid and Asian longhorn beetle. A walk through The Fells gardens with Fells Assistant Gardener Tressa Gaffney will teach you how to identify some common New Hampshire bugs and how to naturally create a healthy balance in your garden. Members free, nonmembers $8. Rain or shine. Meet at The Fells Welcome Kiosk.
Children's Art in Nature Camp: Sculpture Explorations--Four Elements: Earth, Air, Water and Fire
Monday-Friday, July 12-16, 9am-12:30pm
In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous. This year's theme is designed around Aristotle's view of the natural world, built on the four elements--earth, air, water and fire. Created for ages 6-11, focus is on nurturing the artistic creativity of the campers while exploring and learning about our natural world. Hands-on exploration of natural features at The Fells provide inspiration for student artwork as they create sculpture projects from clay, cloth, paper and other objects. Culminates with a student art show and reception. Directed by Rhode Island School of Design trained Lawre Goodnow. Students bring completed art work and all supplies home. Members $150, non-members $175. Class size of 12. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Register now.
Adventure Learning with LSPA: Nature Detectives
Tuesdays, July 13, 20, and 27; 1-2:30 pm
Join Kathleen Stowell, Lake Sunapee Protective Association Education Director, for hands-on nature adventure at The Fells. Children learn through stories, games, art projects and sing-alongs. Wrap up with an easy hike on the beautiful Fells trail system. Designed for ages 3-5 with caregiver. Members free, nonmembers $7. Reservations not required. Rain or shine. Meet on The Fells Main House Veranda. Co-sponsored by the Lake Sunapee Protective Association.
Adventure Learning with LSPA: Watershed Investigators
Wednesdays, July 14, 21, and 28; 1-2:30pm
Join Kathleen Stowell, Lake Sunapee Protective Association Education Director, for hands-on nature adventures at The Fells. Children learn through stories, games, art projects, songs and hikes on the beautiful Fells trail system. Designed for ages 6-9. Members free, nonmembers $3. Reservations not required. Rain or Shine. Meet on The Fells Main House Veranda.Co-sponsored by the Lake Sunapee Protective Association.
Village and Hillside: Unique Gardens of Warner
Saturday, July 17, 9am-3pm
A selection of ten choice private gardens are included on the 2010 Fells Garden Tour. The town of Warner, a pleasant and picturesque village with neatness and thrift evident in all the surroundings is situated in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region of New Hampshire a quick 30 minutes northwest of Concord and 40 minutes southeast of Lebanon. You will be treated to a variety of gardens and styles--including a NH certified organic CSA, charming historic gardens in the Waterloo District, sweeping views from gardens on prestigious Pumpkin Hill, an artist's garden and shop, "a garden among the rocks" and a lovely compact garden and private patio in the town village. Conclude the tour in the historic Waterloo district with refreshments on the tavern lawn, where Paul Proulx will speak on the history of the area and its connection to John Hay. While in Waterloo stroll past beautiful historic homes, cross a covered bridge to the Warner River and railroad station and continue along a picturesque walking trail. Tour headquarters is the Telephone Museum located at 22 East Main Street, Warner. Tickets: $25 day of tour, $20 in advance. Available June 15 online at www.thefells.org and at select retail locations.
Children's Art in Nature Camp: Printmaking--Four Elements: Earth, Air, Water and Fire
Monday-Friday, July 19-23, 9am-12:30pm
In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous. This year's theme is designed around Aristotle's view of the natural world, built on the four elements--earth, air, water and fire. Created for ages 6-11, focus is on nurturing the artistic creativity of the campers while exploring and learning about our natural world. Hands-on exploration of natural features at The Fells will provide inspiration for student artwork as they create prints from four different printmaking methods; monoprint, collograph, blockprint and stamp. Culminates with a student art show and reception. Directed by Rhode Island School of Design trained Lawre Goodnow. Students bring completed art work and all supplies home. Members $150, non-members $175. Class size of 12. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Register now.
Artists Weekend
Saturday-Sunday, July 24-25, 10am-4pm
Renowned artists from the New England region set up easels and paint en plein air amidst the beauty of The Fells landscape and gardens. This popular annual event culminates with a reception, exhibit and sale at 3pm Sunday. Scheduled artist demonstrations and a children's art table from 10am-3pm on Saturday. Free admission to Sunday reception with return receipt from Saturday. Sale proceeds benefit the Fells gardens. Free with Fells admission.
Newbury Recreation and Ecology Camp at the Fells
Monday-Friday, July 26-30, 9am-12:30pm
An outdoor based camp that features a combination of hiking, wetland and watershed ecology, fisheries biology and a day of fishing on Lake Sunapee. Offered for ages 6-13 this camp focuses on creating a love for the outdoors and a respect for the nature around us. Guest naturalists and scientists visit the camp throughout the week. For more info contact, Travis Dezotell, Newbury Parks and Recreation Department, 603-763-4940 x210, travis@newbury.org .
Landscape Painting at the Fells
Wednesday-Friday, July 28-30, 10am-3pm
Capture the beauty of The Fells on canvas in a plein air workshop taught by Aline Ordman, award winning signature member of the Pastel Society of America. An instructor for more than 20 years Aline concentrates on understanding color through exploration of values and shapes created by the play of light in nature. She was awarded first place in the figure category and third in the landscape category in the April 2010 issue of Pastel Journal's top 100 pastels. Learn through one on one instruction as well as group critique. Work in either pastels or oils. For more information about Aline vist alineordman.com. Bring your own lunch and supplies. Members $200, nonmembers $225. Class size of of 16. Meet at The Fells Main House.
Children's Art in Nature Camp: Sculpture Explorations--Four Elements: Earth, Air, Water and Fire
Monday-Friday, August 2-6, 9am-12:30pm
In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous. This year's theme is designed around Aristotle's view of the natural world, built on the four elements--earth, air, water and fire. Created for ages 6-11, focus is on nurturing the artistic creativity of the campers while exploring and learning about our natural world. Hands-on exploration of natural features at The Fells provide inspiration for student artwork as they create sculpture projects from clay, cloth, paper and other objects. Culminates with a student art show and reception. Directed by Rhode Island School of Design trained Lawre Goodnow. Students bring completed art work and all supplies home. Members $150, non-members $175. Class size of 12. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Register now.
Children's Art in Nature Camp: Printmaking--Four Elements: Earth, Air, Water and Fire
Monday-Friday, August 9-13, 9am-12:30pm
In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous. This year's theme is designed around Aristotle's view of the natural world, built on the four elements--earth, air, water and fire. Created for ages 6-11, focus is on nurturing the artistic creativity of the campers while exploring and learning about our natural world. Hands-on exploration of natural features at The Fells will provide inspiration for student artwork as they create prints from four different printmaking methods; monoprint, collograph, blockprint and stamp. Culminates with a student art show and reception. Directed by Rhode Island School of Design trained Lawre Goodnow. Students bring completed art work and all supplies home. Members $150, non-members $175. Class size of 12. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Register now.
Hay Day Family Festival
Saturday, August 14
A fun filled day for families of all ages. Take a historic guided tour of the Main House and gardens, enjoy live animals, children's games, demonstrations and food concessions. Free with admission. The Fells Main House.
Nature Tales
Tuesday, August 17, 11am-noon
Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy story time with LSPA Education Director Kathleen Stowell. Stories, outdoor exploration and fun for young children and their caregivers! Fells or LSPA members free, nonmembers $7. Reservations not required. Rain or shine. Meet on The Fells Main House Veranda. Co-sponsored by the Lake Sunapee Protective Association.
Dinosaur Exploration
Thursday, August 19, 1-3pm
Join Nancy and Glenn Walker as parent and child teams become paleontological detectives. Participants examine fossils and learn how they are exhumed and prepared. Children reconstruct a dinosaur skeleton and paint a mural to take home. Appropriate for ages 6-8. Members $16, nonmembers $20 (per parent/child team). Limit 8 teams. Dress for indoor and outdoor activity. Rain or shine. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse.
The Fells Main House and Shop commence fall hours beginning September 11.
For hours, fees and tour schedule click Hours.
Knee-High Nature
Tuesday, September 14, 10-11:30am
This preschool program is designed to increase children's awareness, curiosity, and appreciation of the natural world through investigation, creative and interactive play, and direct outdoor experiences. Dress for both indoor and outdoor activities. Class size of 16. Member child $2, nonmember child $5, caregiver free. Rain or shine. Meet at Fells Gatehouse. Made possible by support from the Lincoln Financial Foundation.
New Hampshire Hill Country Farm Abandonment (A PALS program)
Thursday, September 23, 4pm
New Hampshire's agricultural population of the early 19th century was prosperous and farmers represented the vast majority of the populace. Just prior to the Civil War, however, the population of many New Hampshire towns sharply declined. What caused this region-wide abandonment of hearth and home? Learn the answer in this informative lecture by Dr. Marcia Schmidt Blaine, Plymouth State University Associate Professor of History. Free. Reservations not required. Sponsored by The Fells and the NH Humanities Council. Meet at Newbury Town Offices, 937 Route 103, Newbury, NH.
Trail-walk: Native American Stories Walk
Setpember : Date and Description TBA
Take a Child Outside Week
September 24-30
In cooperation with Take a Child Outside Week, an international program created to help and encourage children discover the natural world, The Fells is offering bring a child, receive one free adult admission. All children free. Be part of this national movement and bring a child to The Fells to experience the beauty of our natural world. For more information see Take a Child Outside.
Propagation Techniques: A New Hampshire Master Gardener Continuing Education Program
A special program offered only to NH Master Gardeners
Wednesday, September 29, 10:30-noon
Knowing when and how to propagate is both an art and a science. Using a hands-on approach Fells Nursery Manager Susan Damon and Landscape Committee Chair Ann Loeffler demonstrate techniques for successful propagation and division of plants to renew vigor and control spreading. You will be surprised to learn how many perennials can be successfully divided in the fall! Following class, tour the gardens, enjoy a brown bag lunch on the veranda or go on a private tour of the historic house with Education Director Mary Kronenwetter. Participants leave with samples of Fells plant material to take home. Plants will also be available for purchase directly from The Fells Nursery. $20, includes class and materials, admission to the gardens, and private house tour. BYO scissors and felcoes. Class size of 20. To register contact the NH Master Gardener Program, 603-629-9494 x110 or marcy.stanton@unh.edu. Meet at The Fells Nursery.
Trailwalk: Family Night Hike
Friday, October 1, 7-8:30pm (Rain date October 8)
Experience the adventure of a night-time walk on the trails at The Fells. Dave and Fay Barden guide you in exploring the mysteries of the night according to Native American legend. Tom Vannatta will conduct a brief session in astronomy, skies and weather permitting. Conclude the evening with refreshments at the Gatehouse. Reservations not required. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Members free, nonmembers $6.
Introduction to Mushroom Hunting and Identification
Sunday October 3, 1-4pm
Trail-walk leaders and amateur mycologists George and Jill Montgomery provide a brief introduction to mushroom identification followed by a trail hike to collect various species in The Fells woodlands. Finish up by classifying your collected specimens. Sturdy shoes, a knife, and basket are recommended. Members $16, nonmembers $20. Rain or shine. Meet at The Fells Welcome Kiosk.
The Fells Main House and Shop close for the season October 12.
Grounds and trails are open daily for autumn hikes and strolls and winter Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. For hours and fees click Hours.
Knee-High Nature
Tuesday, October 12, 10-11:30am
This preschool program is designed to increase children's awareness, curiosity, and appreciation of the natural world through investigation, creative and interactive play, and direct outdoor experiences. Dress for both indoor and outdoor activities. Member child $2, nonmember child $5, (caregiver free). Class size of 16. Rain or shine. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Made possible by support from the Lincoln Financial Foundation.
Trail-walk: Animals Preparing for Winter: A Walk for Families
Sunday, October 24, 1-2:30pm
Fall is time for our furry animal friends to prepare for winter! Explore the busy Fells woodlands with LSPA Educator Kathleen Stowell to learn how animals get ready for the long cold winter months ahead. Dress for hiking, waterproof footwear recommended. Reservations not required. Members free, nonmembers $6, family rate $15 for 2 adults and two children. Meet at the Fells Gatehouse.
Christmas at The Fells Preview Party
November 5, 5-8pm
Experience the magic of Christmas at The Fells--the scent of freshly cut pine boughs, the twinkle of lights, the glow and warmth from within and the merriment and camaraderie of Fells supporters! Be among the first to preview The Fells Main House, decorated to the theme of Santa's Workshop. Delectable hors d'oeuvres, festive libations, a visit from Santa and familiar holiday melodies played on the newly acquired grand piano! Jitney service available from the Gatehouse parking lot to/from Main House. Limited reservations. $75 per person includes return tour ticket. Tickets available online at www.thefells.org October 1.
Christmas at The Fells: Santa's Workshop
November 6-7 and 13-14, 10am-3pm
The Fells Main House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is transformed into Santa's Workshop by seventeen teams of professional interior designers, decorators and talented volunteers. Santa's elves have been busy gathering toys to delight the fancy of all--from scooters, trains and cycles; to Ken, Barbie and Skipper; to vintage, contemporary and high technology, there is something here for everyone! Get inspired by fireside stockings overflowing with treats and the brilliantly lit trees decorated with the most festive and precious collections of holiday adornments. Tour this popular holiday showcase and visit the Shop where a fine selection of holiday gifts awaits the most discriminating buyer. Tickets, adults: at the door $20; in advance $15; children $5. Available online and at select local retailers October 1. Call 603-763-4789 x3 for information about private tours, rentals and group discounts.
Christmas at The Fells for Children
November TBD
Knee-High Nature
Tuesday, November 9, 10-11:30am
This preschool program is designed to increase children's awareness, curiosity, and appreciation of the natural world through investigation, creative and interactive play, and direct outdoor experiences. Dress for both indoor and outdoor activities. Member child $2, nonmember child $5, (caregiver free). Class size of 16, call 603-763-4789 x3 for reservations. Rain or shine. Meet at The Fells Gatehouse. Made possible by support from the Lincoln Financial Foundation.