In the midst of midterm season, it is more important than ever to relax and have a little fun.

Start on Friday night right here in Concord. Barb's Beer Emporium surived its first week of business (which is quite a accomplishment in today's economy). They will be having a beer tasing beginning at 5:00 featuring free samples of regionally brewerd beer and free food, including hot dogs and kielbasa. Barb's Beer Emporium is locally owned, carries a great selection of wine and beer, and has a very friendly staff! It is located on North Main Street next to the Gas Lighter resturaunt. Afterwards, go see Bill Maher's movie Religulous at the Red River Inn on Main Street. I saw it last night and it was hilarious! Finish with $2 pint night at Penuche's Pub located in the courtyard behind Margaritas on Warren Street.

On Saturday, go see the World Champion Boston Celtics play an exhibition game right here in Granite State. Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and the rest of the champions will take on the Houston Rockets on October 11 at the Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester. Tip-off is at 7:30. There are still plenty of tickets available, so don't miss your chance to see the Celts!

Finally, the Weather Channel is predicting temperatures could rise into the seventies this weekend, so get outside! A suggestion would be the Lakes Region, where the leaves are starting to reach peak conditions. Take a drive an hour north to the Sandwich Town Fair. This is last town fair of the year, and one of the most historic (dating back to 1916!). Don't miss tractor pulls, ox log skidding, music, and sheep-shearing. After you get your fill of the fair, take a walk down the street to Squam Lake, one of the prettiest lake in the state and the inspiration for the film "On Golden Pond" (the late Paul Newman at his best). There are several hikes that offer spectacular views of the lake and fall foliage.

Please see the following websites for more information:

Red River Theaters- www.redrivertheaters.org
Verizon Wireless Area- www.verizonwirelessarena.com
Sandwich Town Fair- www.thesandwichfair.com
Squam Lake Chamber of Commerce, filled with great hiking ideas- http://www.squamlakeschamber.com/