Get Ready to 'Hit The Decks' in Portsmouth

Greater Portsmouth will "Hit the Decks" on Friday to celebrate waterfront and open-air decks and businesses around the Seacoast.

This is more than just a tipping point for a few drinks: May 16 is kick-off of the summer season in the Port City.

Of course, people have already been enjoying the "decks," but today marks the date by which all of them are open, according to the Greater Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce. The celebration is rain or shine. Close to 70 participating businesses, including shops, hotels and attractions, are joining more than 40 restaurants for the chamber's initiative. Samuel Adams and WHEB are sponsors.

The launch party is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the River House Restaurant on Bow Street.

The River House Restaurant has specials and giveaways, and Sam Adams and WHEB will be giving away concert tickets, according to Valerie Rochon, tourism director for the Greater Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce.

Participants include Portsmouth Harbor Cruises (with a 2-for-1 deal), the Discover Portsmouth Center, Portsmouth Gas Light (half off buckets), Roger's Redliner Diner (half off desserts), The Music Hall ($2 off a movie May 16-18 when you mention "Hit the Decks"), and Anneka Jans. Read the full list of participating businesses.

"Hit the Deck" Origins

Rochon offered some history of this event:

"Several years ago, as the Chamber and its members watched (and of course, visited!) the decks open one by one downtown, we decided to agree on a date by which all decks were opened so that we could celebrate as a community. It’s clear that this has been both a cherished ritual for residents and for their visiting family and friends. (We know the number one reason people come to Portsmouth is to visit family and friends.) 

"Here in Spring 2014, we are thrilled at the number of participating restaurants, shopkeepers, attractions and hotels that have signed on with special offers for patrons for May 16. I invite you to join your fellow citizens, bring your family and friends, and join us in this annual rite of Spring!"