The Belknap Mill Museum invites the community to celebrate creativity, culture, and connection at Free First Friday on Friday, August 1. This all-day event is free and open to the public, featuring local art, live music, and a chance to explore one of the region’s most treasured historic landmarks.
The featured gallery exhibit, Wool, Nature & Imagination, showcases the fiber artistry of Pam Bartlett, a juried member of the League of NH Craftsmen. Known for her expressive use of wool and nature-inspired themes, Bartlett’s work brings texture and storytelling to life. A meet-the-artist reception will be held from 5:00 to 6:00 PM in the gallery.
At 6:00 PM, the festivities move outdoors to Rotary Park with a live performance by singer-songwriter Katie Dobbins, whose heartfelt folk-pop sound is both inspiring and soulful. She will be accompanied by Mike Mora on cajón and bass, adding rhythm and richness to the performance.
Throughout the day, guests are encouraged to take a self-guided tour of the Belknap Mill—the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States. Exhibits such as Threads of Innovation and the historic 4th-floor bridal room provide an engaging look at the region’s industrial heritage.
The museum will be open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with free admission all day. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening filled with local art, live music, and community spirit in downtown Laconia.
This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Laconia Putnam Fund, Lakes Region Community College, and Lakes Media.
