Every September, downtown Exeter becomes a gathering place for believers, skeptics, and anyone looking for an out-of-this-world weekend during the Exeter UFO Festival. The event brings together curious visitors, paranormal enthusiasts, historians, and families for a weekend of speakers, live entertainment, themed experiences, and community events. Whether you are deeply interested in UFO conventions or simply looking for something unexpected to add to your New Hampshire getaway, the Exeter UFO Festival offers a memorable way to experience this historic New England town.
Beyond the festival itself, there are plenty of things to do in Exeter, making it easy to turn your visit into a full, long weekend getaway. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming downtown filled with independent shops, cozy cafes, and local art galleries, or enjoy a scenic walk along the Exeter River. History enthusiasts can dive into the town’s past with a walking tour of historic downtown Exeter, while beer lovers can sample craft brews at some of the best breweries in Exeter.
After a full day of festival events and local exploration, Inn By the Bandstand offers a refined and comfortable place to recharge in the heart of downtown. As one of the premier luxury hotels in New Hampshire for guests seeking a more personal experience, our Inn combines historic charm with modern accommodations and thoughtful hospitality. Staying within walking distance of the Exeter UFO Festival allows guests to fully enjoy the weekend’s excitement while returning to a peaceful retreat at the end of the evening. Book your stay for the UFO Festival in Exeter, NH!
What to Expect at the Exeter UFO Festival
Held annually over Labor Day weekend in September, the Exeter UFO Festival transforms downtown Exeter, right outside the doors of our Exeter hotel, into the center of New England’s UFO universe. The festival commemorates the famous “Incident at Exeter,” a 1965 sighting that captured national attention after 18-year-old Norman Muscarello and several Exeter police officers reported witnessing an unidentified flying object in nearby Kensington, NH. What began as a local mystery quickly became one of the most well-known UFO cases in the country. Today, the festival celebrates that story with speakers, entertainment, themed events, and a weekend full of extraterrestrial fun.
One of the main attractions of the UFO Festival in Exeter, NH, is the speaker series, which features speakers and podcasters discussing UFO sightings, extraterrestrial theories, and paranormal phenomena. Visitors can also watch historical videos about the “Incident at Exeter” and take a trolley tour to see the area where the famous sighting reportedly occurred. Throughout the weekend, the festival blends history, mystery, and entertainment into one of the most unique New Hampshire events.
Outside the scheduled presentations, visitors can expect a lively festival atmosphere throughout downtown Exeter. Local restaurants in Exeter, NH, join the fun with alien-themed food and drinks, while vendors and shops offer festival merchandise including T-shirts, mugs, tote bags, posters, and other souvenirs. Many of the same items are also available at Trends Gift Gallery before the festival officially begins. You’ll also spot people, and even pets, dressed as aliens during the popular Alien Costume Contest, Alien Pet Contest, and parade held on Saturday.
The Exeter UFO Festival also includes plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Kids can enjoy crafts, games, face painting, “UFO Crash Site” creations, gifts, and free refreshments, while Saturday’s schedule continues with a free dance party featuring Johnny B following the parade. Because the Exeter UFO Festival has grown significantly in recent years, booking accommodations early is highly recommended, especially for visitors planning to stay close to downtown. If you’re looking for things to do in Exeter or memorable New Hampshire events, the festival offers a completely different kind of New England getaway.
Stay at One of the Best Luxury Hotels in New Hampshire
After a full day exploring the Exeter UFO Festival, you’ll want to retire to one of the best luxury hotels in New Hampshire. Our boutique hotel offers a refined place to relax right in the center of downtown Exeter. Our boutique property combines historic New England character with upscale accommodations designed for comfort and quiet sophistication. Each guestroom features thoughtfully selected furnishings and luxurious bedding.
Guests can begin the next morning with an elevated à la carte breakfast featuring fresh-squeezed juices, handcrafted coffees, house-made granola, omelets, smoked salmon toast, and French toast. We also have a top-rated local restaurant right here on-site. At Ambrose Restaurant, guests can enjoy contemporary shared plates, craft cocktails, and locally inspired cuisine. Accommodations fill up quickly during the Exeter UFO Festival. Book your room today!