Canterbury Shaker Village to Reopen May 11
On Saturday, May 11, Canterbury Shaker Village will open for the 2024 season with several special events and indoor guided tours scheduled. At 10:00 a.m., Opening Day begins with Canterbury Shaker Village XC 5K, part of the Capital Area Race Series (CARS), sponsored by Northeast Delta Dental. Featuring 6+ miles of groomed trails on nearly 700 acres, the Village hosts cross-country races throughout the year.
At 2:00 p.m., Shirley Wajda, PhD, Curator of Collections, will provide a brief introductory talk on childhood in the 19th century followed by the premier of Birdie, a film by SALT. Select visitors may also have the opportunity to test the Village’s smartphone tours, which will be available to the public later in the season.
In May, indoor guided tours will be offered at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. In June, tours will also be offered at 2:30 p.m. In addition to indoor guided tours, the Village interprets Shaker life through exhibits, restored historic structures, gardens, and educational programs.
“It will be a great year at the Village with a variety of programs, exhibits, and events shedding light on the Shakers and an authentic way of life that especially resonates today,” noted Education Manager Kyle Sandler.
About Canterbury Shaker Village
Featuring 694 acres of forests, fields, gardens, nature trails, and mill ponds under permanent conservation easement, the Village is designated as a National Historic Landmark with 25 restored original Shaker buildings and 4 reconstructed Shaker buildings. In addition to tours, exhibits, and programs, Canterbury Shaker Village provides wonderful, relaxing, and beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings.
Canterbury Shaker Village is a member of the NH Heritage Museum Trail, which connects the public with culturally rich heritage institutions in New Hampshire. For more information about The Trail, visit nhmuseumtrail.org.