Signature Events
From street.life!, and Hit the Decks, to "RWPS" and Art 'Round Town, you've probably heard a little bit about many events but aren't really sure what people are talking about. Scroll on to learn more about some of the Chamber's regular events and traditions that we call - signature events.
street.life!
The largest business community event of the year, street.life! is held in a new location each year celebrating a unique aspect of our community.
For 2025, we gathered at Bohenko Gateway Park on Market Street to celebrate another great year of community and commerce amongst one of things many things that makes our community great: public art.
Where will we be next? You'll have to wait and see!
Held Annually / Late Summer
Awards Luncheon
In 2023 we separated the awards out of street.life! and into their own event to make sure that the recipients had their own time to shine.
This experiment has been a great success and we look forward to continuing this format in FY26.
This year we will be holding a special awards luncheon to honor award recipients such as our:
- Collaborator of the Year
- Large Business of the Year
- Nonprofit of the Year
- Small But MIGHTY Business of the Year
- Special Recognition
- Volunteer of the Year
This event is a great opportunity to celebrate the business community while enjoying an excellent meal in good company.
Held Annually / Late Fall
CelebrateHER
Launched in November 2023 in collaboration with the Women's Business League, CelebrateHER is our fastest growing series of events!
The purpose is to cultivate a community of women in business, to provide mentorship to women aspiring to leadership positions and to celebrate those pioneers paving the way.
For FY26 we are planning to host the third annual awards followed by three educational events.
Held Annually / Mid-Winter
Chamber Golf Classic
Our annual golf tournament is a great opportunity to have fun and network with other members and their guests.
Foursome tickets also make great thank yous to customers and staff incentives.
Details:
- Thursday, May 2026
- The Links at Outlook
- Registration Opens at 7:30am
- Shotgun Start at 9am
- Breakfast and Lunch are Included
All golf sponsorships include:
- Sponsor logo in day-of program and event sponsor board
- Mention and thanks in The Source digital newsletter and other tournament marketing initiatives.
Held Annually / Spring
Restaurant Week Portsmouth & the Seacoast
Restaurant Week Portsmouth & the Seacoast (RWPS) is a 10-day culinary extravaganza that takes place every spring and fall.
Held Twice a Year / Early November & Mid-April
Greater Ceres Street Open
The Greater Ceres Street Open is the Seacoast’s way of celebrating the conclusion of the summer tourism season.
An informal downtown mini-golf course will run through downtown and feature fun challenges at each hole.
Participants will be able to nominate a member non-profit to receive the proceeds of team registration. The winner will be chosen by a drawing at the official after party.
Held Annually / Fall
Hit the Decks
Hit the Decks is the Seacoast’s unofficial way of celebrating that we are open for the summer season.
All tourism businesses are encouraged to participate to celebrate the season kick-off. Each participating business offers a special deal for the entire day.
The Hit the Decks Headquarters Party will take place at one or more participating restaurants located on the decks with radio talent, giveaways, and specials.
Held Annually / Spring
Art 'Round Town
The first Friday of every month, year-round, downtown Portsmouth celebrates its inspired art community with special flair by presenting its Art ‘Round Town gallery walk. Art ‘Round Town is free and open to the public taking place from 5 to 8 p.m. Visit participating gallery websites for details.
Held Monthly / First Fridays
Local Love
Experience the charm of Portsmouth during Local Love, happening every THIRD THURSDAY from 5pm – 8pm - (changing to 4pm - 7pm in January 2026).
This exciting event invites you to explore a variety of local retailers throughout the city, offering an evening of shopping opportunities, special promotions, and unique finds.
Participants in Local Love include everyone from Alie Jewelers, in continuous operation since 1817, to The Vibe Collective, down the other end of town — just 14 months with us!
Held Monthy / Third Thursdays
Vintage Christmas
Started in 2005 as a partnership between Strawbery Banke Museum and The Music Hall, this celebration of the season emphasizes gathering together to experience the holidays in our picturesque N.H. town.
With events like the Candlelight Stroll, the Illuminated Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, and all the shows that take place during this magical season, you can understand why people are returning to Portsmouth year-after-year to celebrate with their loved ones.
Retailers, restaurants, attractions and shops are invited to join us in celebrating the holiday season by joining the Vintage Christmas team.
Decorate your space, host a gingerbread house from the Portsmouth Historical Society’s Gingerbread Exhibition, or start your own tradition; let’s come together as a community to promote Portsmouth as one of the premier holiday destinations of New England!
Held Annually / Late November through December
