When the New Hampshire Boat Museum (NHBM) hosts the 50th Annual Alton Bay Boat Show on Saturday, August 8, visitors will experience more than a stunning display of classic wooden and early fiberglass boats. A cherished tradition of Alton Old Home Day, the boat show has brought generations of boating enthusiasts, families, and visitors together to celebrate New Hampshire’s rich boating heritage.
“They will step into a living current of New Hampshire history and a way of life that has shaped the state’s identity for more than a century and still ripples across its lakes today,” said Executive Director Devon Kurtz.
The show runs from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Alton Bay Town Docks and is free and open to the public. Spectators are invited to walk the docks, meet the owners, and cast ballots for the People’s Choice Award. Pre-registration is not required, and docking is first-come, first-served.
“It’s one of the longest-running vintage boat shows in the region, and it has become a gathering spot for owners, families, and enthusiasts who understand that each vessel carries a story,” Kurtz added.
Referring to it as “a thrilling spectator event,” Kurtz said the show reveals “subtle insights” into New Hampshire lake life. “What is actually on display is a culture — the craftsmanship, the family memories, the friendships formed on the water. That is what the museum exists to protect.”
The 50th Annual Alton Bay Boat Show is sponsored by Mundial Group, Water’s Nook Home Decor and Gifts, The NASWA Resort, Shibley’s at the Pier, Shibley’s Drive-In, Guiding Light Fishing Tours, and Alton Home and Lumber.
About NHBM
Founded in 1992 by antique and classic boating enthusiasts, NHBM offers dynamic exhibits and engaging events and programs tailored to the diverse boating lifestyles and values of people of all ages. NHBM exhibits, events and programming covers everything from boat charters, boat trips and race boats to canoes, wooden boats, outboard motors, sculling, sailing sunfish, and Lyman and Johnson motors. Some of our hands-on programs take place on Lake Winnipesaukee. NHBM is sponsored in part by Goodhue Boat Company, North Water Marine, Eastern Propane and Oil, Kingswood Press and Design Studios, Avery Insurance, KW Lakes and Mountains, Lanes End Marine, Watermark Marine, Amoskeag Beverages, Mi Box, Fay’s Boat Yard, and BootLeggers.