Atkinson, N.H., Readies for 250th Anniversary Celebration

Susan Ober, Recreation Commission chairman, and Atkinson Town Administrator Alan J. Phair hold up one of many banners being placed around town in observance of Atkinson’s 250th anniversary. (WHAV News photograph.)

Atkinson, N.H., is busy getting ready to celebrate the town’s 250th anniversary from Aug. 30 through Labor Day.

The steering committee, led by Atkinson Recreation, put final touches Wednesday on an array of events including a 5k road race, movies, Country Fair, Vintage Market, concerts, chili and apple pie cook-off, parade, car show, tethered balloon rides and fireworks, among many other activities. Town Administrator Alan J. Phair said the planned fireworks presentation Saturday, Sept. 2 will be larger than most have seen locally.

“We’re spending a considerable amount of money on fireworks to make them a spectacular event. Probably be larger than many of the community ones that have been around,” Phair said.

Susan Ober, Recreation Commission chairman leading the anniversary steering committee, said the celebration brings together various independent groups and activities. Organizations include Family Mediation, Atkinson Women’s Civic Club, Atkinson Historical Society, Timberlane Community Band, Knights of Columbus, Atkinson Congregational Church, Lions Club and town departments.

Separated from Plaistow into its own town in 1767, Atkinson traces its history to the founding of Haverhill, now across a state border. That history will be told by Steven Lewis and a panel including Atkinson Historical Society members Adele Dillon and Ellie Zaremba next Thursday, Aug. 3, 6:30 p.m., at Kimball Library.

There are still some gaps to fill. Family Mediation and Juvenile Services still needs two more bands to compete in its Battle of the Bands affair Friday, Sept. 1, from 6 to 9 p.m., at Woodlock Park. Interested bands may contact Melissa Huntley at 603-362-9957. Likewise, the Vintage Market is looking for crafters, artists, antiques dealers and food vendors for its Saturday, Sept. 2, event that runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spaces are $60 each and may be reserved by emailing the Atkinson Women’s Civic Club at [email protected].

Ober said the commitment of volunteers to the celebration has made all of the difference.

“Our event will be so great is because we have so many wonderful organizations in town that do so many things for the town. For all of us to come together to put on one event to celebrate the town’s 250th anniversary will be special and memorable for the town.”

The steering committee meets again Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 7 p.m., at the fire station.

A full calendar of activities appears at atkinsonnh250th.com. WHAV also plans a series of special reports on the town’s anniversary celebration.