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
Friday - 7/3
- Bellows, Tiger Saw, Hello Shark get loud
Saturday - 7/11
- Darlingside Matinee folk vibes
- Darlingside rock out
Sunday - 7/12
- Darrell Scott country time
Tuesday - 7/14
- Steve Riley get loud
Wednesday - 7/15
- I Draw Slow let's go
Friday - 7/17
- Le Vent du Nord folk night
Saturday - 7/18
- Samantha Crain jazz vibes
Sunday - 7/19
- Satsang get loud