CONCORD, N.H. — This year’s Fourth of July weekend was a big one for tourism.
North Country businesses reported increased attendance and sales this year compared to last year, when rain dampened attendance, according to a survey by the Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, and North Conway’s parade attendance was the highest it’s been in recent years, said Michelle Crews, executive director of the chamber.
“I don’t know the exact number of people who attended yet, but it was definitely a number I haven’t seen in years,” she said. “It was so great to see.”
Alex Foti, owner of Bretton Woods Vacations, said rental rates at his company’s properties are up 25 percent compared to last year, which he attributes to improved weather.
Cog train ticket sales are up 10 percent and area restaurants also reported being busier.
“The whole week was amazing,” said Pete Gagne, owner of Saco River Canoe Rentals. “The weather was perfect, hot and humid. Last year was a no-no, so it didn’t take much to turn it around.”
“Tourism in this region is always weather dependent, no matter the season,” Cruz said.
The summer of 2023 was tough, with record rainfall causing last-minute cancellations, but hot, sunny weather so far this summer has helped business pick up. Crews said that because Independence Day fell on a Thursday this year, some people arrived early the weekend before and stayed the whole week.
“The trend this season is that people are still traveling but are waiting until the last minute to book accommodation,” she said.
Most of the tourists who visit the area drive in from neighboring states, including Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island, but there are also international visitors, including from Canada and the Netherlands.
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Contact Amanda Gokee at amanda.gokee@globe.com Follow her Amanda Gokey.
