Pro Portsmouth, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the cultural fabric of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, through community-driven events that celebrate the city’s rich arts, culture, and history. Established in 1977, Pro Portsmouth has been instrumental in organizing some of the most anticipated public events in the Seacoast region.
🏛️ Mission and Vision
Pro Portsmouth’s mission is to celebrate and sustain the vitality of Portsmouth’s arts, culture, and history through events and community collaboration. The organization aims to foster community engagement, support local artists and performers, and promote the city’s unique heritage. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity, Pro Portsmouth relies on donations, sponsorships, and volunteers to bring its events to life.
🎉 Signature Events Organized by Pro Portsmouth
Pro Portsmouth organizes several key events throughout the year that draw both locals and visitors:
1. Market Square Day (June 14, 2025)
Market Square Day is the flagship event of Pro Portsmouth, celebrating the renovation and beautification of Downtown Portsmouth. This vibrant festival features over 150 vendors, live music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities. The day kicks off with the Market Square Day 10K Road Race, which attracts runners from across the region. The festival transforms downtown Portsmouth into a pedestrian-friendly zone, allowing attendees to explore the city’s offerings at their leisure.
2. First Night Portsmouth (December 31, 2025)
First Night Portsmouth is a family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year’s Eve celebration that has been a tradition since 1986. The event features a variety of performances, including music, dance, and theater, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over South Mill Pond. First Night Portsmouth offers a safe and inclusive environment for families to ring in the new year together.
3. Children’s Day (First Sunday of May)
Children’s Day is a springtime event where downtown Portsmouth becomes a playground for children of all ages. The celebration includes games, performances, and activities sponsored by local businesses and organizations. This event emphasizes the importance of community involvement and provides a platform for local youth to showcase their talents.
4. Summer in the Street
Summer in the Street is a series of events that transform downtown streets into pedestrian-friendly areas for live music, dance performances, and other cultural activities. This initiative encourages community participation and supports local artists by providing them with a platform to perform in the heart of the city.
🤝 Community Engagement and Support
Pro Portsmouth emphasizes community involvement through volunteer opportunities and partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Their events are designed to be inclusive, offering a platform for local artists, performers, and vendors to showcase their talents and products. The organization also collaborates with various civic groups to ensure that its events reflect the diverse interests and needs of the Portsmouth community.
📅 Get Involved
Pro Portsmouth welcomes community members to get involved in its events through volunteering, sponsorships, and participation. Individuals interested in supporting the organization can find more information on their official website. By contributing time, resources, or expertise, community members can play an active role in sustaining the cultural vitality of Portsmouth.
🌟 Conclusion
Pro Portsmouth stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration in preserving and promoting the arts and culture of Portsmouth, NH. Through its signature events and ongoing initiatives, the organization fosters a vibrant cultural scene that enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re attending a festival, volunteering, or supporting as a sponsor, your involvement helps sustain the traditions that make Portsmouth a unique and thriving community.
