new england's live music guide
EXETER
THE WORD BARN
ABOUT
The Word Barn is an intimate performing arts and events venue in Exeter, NH with a capacity of approximately 100. The space is a renovated former horse stable on the historic Raynes Farm property (circa 1695), converted into a warm, wood-interior listening room. An outdoor meadow space expands capacity for seasonal events.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Programming spans acoustic and folk music, singer-songwriters, bluegrass, Celtic, comedy, poetry readings, storytelling, literary events, and workshops. The venue's small scale creates a close, focused listening environment. The Word Barn also hosts nature-themed events, weaving workshops, and educational programming, positioning it as a multi-disciplinary arts space.
HISTORY
The property traces its roots to the Raynes Farm, dating to approximately 1695, with a cattle market once operating on the grounds in the 1800s. The horse stable was razed and rebuilt by a previous owner as a personal arts space. Founder Sarah Sloane christened the space "The Word Barn" around 2013, initially focusing on literary events and writing workshops before expanding into live music and performance programming.
UPCOMING SHOWS
Tuesday
- Old Time Jam get jamming
Wednesday
- Jane Siberry let's go
Thursday
- Lissa Schneckenburger, Nic Gareiss, and Garrett Cameron dance vibes
Friday
- Caroline Spence listen up
Saturday
- Cole Chaney & The Local Honeys rock out
Sunday
- Poetry: Maggie Dietz poetic night
Wednesday - 5/13
- PMac's Band of Hope: Noon Tunes music break
- PMac's Bluegrass Ensemble and Ukulele Ensemble bluegrass joy
Friday - 5/15
- Abigail Lapell feel alive
Saturday - 5/16
- Elizabeth and Ben Anderson local duo
Sunday - 5/17
- Elizabeth and the Catapult let's vibe
Friday - 5/29
- William Prince soulful tunes
Sunday - 5/31
- Chatham Rabbits rabbits unite