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Nantucket Events & Annual Festivals

Jennie Sparrow | 10/6/2025

Nantucket Events & Annual Festivals

Each season on Nantucket brings something special — from colorful spring celebrations to cozy holiday traditions. Whether you’re drawn to sailing, film, food, or festive lights, Nantucket’s annual events reflect the island’s rich maritime heritage and community spirit. Below are some of the most beloved gatherings, and for the latest listings, visit our Nantucket Events Calendar.

🌼 Spring & Early Summer

Nantucket bursts into bloom each spring, welcoming visitors with vibrant festivals and the first sails of the season.

  • Daffodil Festival – A cheerful celebration of spring featuring antique car parades, picnics, and fields of bright yellow blooms. The whole island comes alive with color and creativity.
  • Figawi Race Weekend – The legendary sailboat race from Hyannis to Nantucket marks the unofficial start of summer and fills the harbor with excitement and live music.

☀️ Summer Highlights

Summer on Nantucket brings world-class arts, outdoor concerts, and coastal festivities that showcase the island’s vibrant culture.

  • Nantucket Film Festival – One of the nation’s premier film festivals, celebrating storytellers through screenings, panels, and special events each June.
  • Fourth of July Festivities – Parades, beach games, and fireworks make Independence Day unforgettable on Nantucket’s shores.
  • Boston Pops on Nantucket – A spectacular summer concert on Jetties Beach that raises funds for Nantucket Cottage Hospital — a beloved island tradition.

🍂 Fall Favorites

As the summer crowds thin, Nantucket’s local traditions shine — offering a glimpse into the island’s heritage and natural beauty.

  • Cranberry Festival – Celebrate the harvest with tours, tastings, and family fun at the Milestone Cranberry Bog each October.
  • Nantucket Half Marathon – Runners enjoy scenic routes through conservation land and along the island’s picturesque coastline every October.

❄️ Winter & Holiday Traditions

The holidays on Nantucket are nothing short of magical, transforming the island into a winter postcard come to life.

  • Christmas Stroll – A cherished December celebration featuring carolers, twinkling lights, and a visit from Santa down cobblestone streets.

✨ Plan Your Visit

No matter the season, there’s always something happening on Nantucket. Explore our full, regularly updated Nantucket Events Calendar to see what’s happening now, or browse Nantucket vacation rentals to find your perfect island stay.

About Jennie Sparrow

About Jennie Sparrow: A true Cape Codder, born and raised, I am thrilled to call Cape Cod my home. I have been with WeNeedaVacation since 2017 and am grateful that my position at WeNeedaVacation has offered me the opportunity to combine my love for the area with my passion for marketing. My favorite pastime is driving onto Nauset's outer beach with my family where I'm happiest feeling the sun on my face and the sand between my toes!