New England Festival Named One Of The Best Fall Events

Nowadays, it seems there is a festival for just about everything. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as festivals allow you to get together with like-minded people. In that spirit, Fifty Grande released a report that details the best fall festivals in the country, and a New England festival made the list.

On October 15 in Manchester, New Hampshire, The Chocolate Expo will take place. This popular two-date event is now embarking on a touring model. The sweet news for New England chocolate enthusiasts gets even sweeter with the announcement that his expo will also take place in Massachusetts. On Saturday, January 27 and Sunday, January 28, The Chocolate Expo will be in Wilmington, MA.

"The Chocolate Expo features tastings & sales of chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, dairy products, craft beverages (wines, spirits, cider, mead, and more, depending on location) and ready-to-eat foods," TheChocolateExpo.com states.

The upcoming event in Manchester, New Hampshire will take place at the DoubleTree Expo Center. Currently, over 80 vendors are scheduled to partake with more expected to be added soon. Though chocolate is certainly the main attraction, you will find vendors who also specialize in other delicious items. For example, don't be surprised to find hot sauces, pretzels and jerky items available.

As for eating, most vendors offer a small sample of their chocolate. If you enjoy what you've had, you can then make a purchase. This is similar style to a wine tasting. In addition, you often get to speak with the chef who created what you are tasting.

"Prices for online 'Timed-Entry' tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children aged 5-12," Fifty Grande relays. Children under age 5 are free. In addition, there will be a VIP option. For $40 you will get early admission, priority admission for any reentry, and an event tote bag that reads, "Chocolate Fixes Everything."

For more information on this New England expo that was named among the fall festivals across the country this year, visit TheChocolateExpo.com.

As much as I love my south shore area of the Northeast, sometimes there is nothing better than a quick pause. We are fortunate in New England that there are so many great options that are a short drive away. It's not hard to embark on that perfect weekend getaway escape.

With summer coming to a close and the hustle and bustle of all the fall activities kicking into overdrive, here I will look at some of the best places for a weekend getaway in New England based upon all of those I have visited.

Many factors can be considered when nailing down that perfect two-day plan. We, of course, are graced with all four seasons of the year, so depending upon when you are traveling, different activities may be available to you. Then again, perhaps you don't want any activities at all.

Food options are important to me. However, I don't make trip plans based around what place has the best restaurants. I tend to lean towards exploring the local area in hopes of tripping across a local gem.

Driving distance is another thing I heavily weigh. Although I don't mind the occasional long road trip, my preference is to maximize my time on a weekend adventure. Therefore, time in the car is ideally under four hours. Cost is always a factor.

Lastly, I must preface this list by stating I am an outdoorsman. A good book or movie can certainly do the trick. I always opt for great ocean waves, a rope swing, or mountain over an extra hour of sleep.

In recent years, I have been to each of the places on this list over various months of the year. They each have their own unique characteristics. Their common bond is that they are all great destinations for a New England weekend getaway.

Cape Cod is an obvious location. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, there is perhaps no place that is more popular in Massachusetts. To me, it's about finding that specific corner of Cape Cod that is right for you. You can camp or find cottages along Cahoon Hallow Road that will enable amazing trips to the beach. Trekking those sand dunes, hitting the three-foot waves (yes, sometimes there are shark warnings), and then getting food at the Beachcomber while listening to the great live music, is my perfect day.

There is never a bad time to visit this charming town. You can ski Cranmore in the winter. Hike, hit the waterfalls, or visit Storyland in the summer. Either way, you will be graced with some amazing local restaurants. In fact, North Conway flies under the radar as one of the best pizza towns in New England. The hotels like Eastern Slope in accommodate any season, and are right in the middle of town where all the bars, restaurants and stores are. This weekend getaway is probably the least "quiet" but has the most amount of options at your fingertips.

The river that runs through Woodstock has a way of speaking to you. It's serene but can also provide a thrill of pushing you down stream. It's calming to provide that fresh water cleanse to rid yourself of all that comes with the lights on the city. Lastly, the various rope swings scattered around the town provide a liberating rush. From the climb up the rocks to the swing, to the plunge, you focus on nothing but the joy of that ride. Ramunto's Brick Oven and Brews is also an essential stop upon each visit.

Lake life just hits differently. Depending upon where you go around Lake Sebago you get the feeling that nowhere else on the planet exists while you there. Frye Island has the magic of no public cars, local watering holes, and the ability to bike incredible dirt roads. There's a history there to learn about and local taps to enjoy. It's common to see jet skiing or pontoon boating anywhere you look within the glistening waters. Furthermore, certain towns offer that one and only general store that has everything you can imagine, from household cleaning supplies to steaks to grill for dinner.