Seacoast Embraces Its History This Weekend

Looking for something fun to do on the Seacoast this weekend? Here are some ideas (and be sure to tell us about the things you did and show us the pictures you took by posting on Patch or by e-mailing Kyle Stucker at Kyle.Stucker@Patch.com):

1. See the Historic Side of a Popular Destination: Two local organizations are teaming together to offer a unique look at Hampton Beach on Saturday. The event is a lead-up to next month's 375th anniversary celebration, and reservations are required.

2. Catch a Music Festival: Portsmouth's Prescott Park is hosting two different music festivals this weekend. The Americana Festival begins at 1 p.m. Saturday, while the Jazz Festival begins at noon Sunday.

3. Celebrate Bastille Day: You may notice a lot of festive spirit Sunday thanks to Bastille Day, which is a national holiday that marks the beginning of modern France. 

Residents with French heritage and visiting French Canadians can often be found celebrating the event around the Seacoast area each July 14, which is the day that the people of Paris stormed the Bastille prison in 1789 and effectively began the violent overthrow of the monarchy to make way for a republic.

Know of any Bastille Day-themed parties or events in the area? Tell us about them in the comments below.  

4. See a Concert or Show: There are plenty of free acts on Hampton Beach's Seashell Stage, "Annie" continues at Prescott Park, and there are several acts at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom.

5. Enjoy a Night Out: Jump On In, a kid-focused indoor playground and party center in Portsmouth, is throwing a "Friday Parents' Night Out." Adults can drop off their children for a few hours so they can have a date night while the kids play and have fun.

What else is going on? You tell us! There are plenty of other events, but we want to know what you're going to do. Tell us in the comments!