What's Going On Around Nantucket?

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Wednesday, July 2nd

  • Birding Field Trip: Explore Nantucket’s birding hotspots and get a chance to observe birds in their natural habitats. Binoculars, spotting scope, and field guides are available to borrow. Pre-registration is required. Meet at 7:45 a.m. at the LLNF office, 110 Eel Point Road, to check in and board our van. The trip will depart promptly at 8AM. Personal transportation to and from LLNF is required to participate.
  • MMA Marine Ecology Field Trip: What sea creatures live around Nantucket? Find out as you help to collect, identify, and release fish, crabs, shrimp, and other marine creatures with our huge seine net. This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 8 and older. Meet at the Hither Creek Beach Access (near 25 Massachusetts Ave). All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Cost Per Participant: $35. Pre-registration is required. 8:30-10 a.m. 
  • Ravenous Reptiles: The MMA invites you to learn about turtles, frogs snakes and more at the MMA Natural Science Museum. $20 per ticket. 9-9:45 a.m. at 7 Milk Street.
  • Feeding Frenzy at MMA Aquarium: Join MMA Aquarists and staff as they feed the ever-hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens to the public. Pre-registration recommended. $175 for a group of up to 5 people. 9:00 a.m. at 32 Washington Street.
  • Book Signing with Elin Hilderbrand: Elin Hilderbrand, author of "The Blue Book," will be signing copies at Mitchell's Book Corner, 54 Main Street. The first 120 in line at Mitchell's will get a ticket. No pre-purchase is required. Only books purchased at Nantucket Book Partners can be signed. Line up begins at 10:00 a.m., signing at 11:00 a.m.
  • Rafael Osona: Nantucket Auctions:  This collection features furnishings and fine items from several notable Nantucket estates, including those of Carolyn and Roger Horchow, Carolyn Wells and Frank White, Joly Walton Stewart, and more. Highlights include a 1990 Mazda MX5 Miata Convertible, mid-century modern furniture, and an impressive selection of fine art. Over 735 lots! Bid online with Liveauctioneers, Bidsquare or Invaluable. Live Preview from 10:00-5:00 p.m. at the American Legion, Byron Sylvaro Post 82, 21 Washington Street. 
  • Drop-In Craft Gam: Have an unfinished chair, basket, beading, or stitching project? Bring any project you are working on to this open session and work in the company of other creative people. Located at 4 Mill Street, 11:00-2:00 p.m.
  • Hands-On Lifesaving Demonstrations: Breeches Buoy & Heaving Stick: Drop by the Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum, 158 Polpis Road, for interactive demonstrations of historic lifesaving methods where visitors can try their hand at using equipment to rescue our mascot, Marshall, with the breeches buoy. Enjoy coloring activities or relax with a picnic by the beautiful Folgers Marsh. Free and open to all — museum admission not required. 2:00-3:00 p.m.
  • Member Marketplace at the Hive: We'll offer ready to enjoy meals and products from seven of our members, ranging from all sorts of appetizers, to spinach ricotta ravioli and lobster rolls, fresh baked breads and desserts. 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Hive, 5 Amelia Drive. 
  • Behind the Scenes: NHA Collections Center: Ever wonder what’s in the NHA Collections that aren’t on public display? Join our curatorial team for a behind-the-scenes tour of our collections of paintings, furniture, and Nantucket artifacts. Free to attend. Meet at the Gosnold Center, 89 Bartlett Road, 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
  • NHA Lecture Series: Diana Weymar: Interwoven Stories: Join artist and activist Diana Weymar for the "Interwoven Stories," a community-based narrative stitching project. Learn about Diana's practice and view a special re-installation of the Interwoven Stories pieces at Greater Light, 8 Howard Street. Free to attend with pre-registration, at nha.org. 
  • Open Arts Night: Visit the Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street, for Open Arts Night! Our stage and mic are still open for any and all, but now we've added an Arts & Craft component so people may feel free to come and work on any kind of art project while watching the stage show. Feel free to come and work on any kind of art project while watching the stage show. Bring your knitting, embroidery, coloring pages, wrap gifts, or just come and enjoy the space and listen to the music. All are welcome in the Great Hall. Free admission. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • Summer Decks DJ Series: Don’t miss the final season of the Summer Decks DJ Series featuring Pete Ahern on the beautiful Harborview Deck, 17 S Water Street. Must be 25 or older to attend. Tickets are limited. Nonmembers: $48. Dreamland members: $35. 6:00 p.m.
  • Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour: Straight from the pages of Elin’s ultimate “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, comes a tour from Nantucket Island Tours that highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants and beaches, as well as showcasing iconic places that are prominent in her novels. Join Heather Thorpe, Elin’s sister, on a two-hour excursion that is sure to be a memory making experience on Nantucket! $100 per ticket. 3:00-5:00 p.m. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, online, or at 508-228-0334.
  • Stargazing at Loines Observatory: MMA staff will guide you in viewing astronomical objects through our historic 8-inch Alvan Clark refractor and our modern 24-inch research telescope. Get a chance to view the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae and even other galaxies. Please dress for the weather conditions at the event time, as this event takes place outside at 59 Milk Street Extension. $25 per adult, $15 per youth participant. Pre-register online. 9:30-10:30 p.m.
  • People of Nantucket Inkerman Speaker Series: Join for a conversation with Erica and Matt, founders of Nantucket Tug Company, as they share how their love for the sea turned into a business. 13 Center Street from 7-8 p.m.

Thursday, July 3rd

  • Ravenous Reptiles: The MMA invites you to learn about turtles, frogs snakes and more at the MMA Natural Science Museum. $20 per ticket. 9-9:45 a.m. at 7 Milk Street.
  • Feeding Frenzy at MMA Aquarium: Join MMA Aquarists and staff as they feed the ever-hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens to the public. Pre-registration recommended. $175 for a group of up to 5 people. 9:00 a.m. at 32 Washington Street.
  • Marine Storytime: Enjoy this program designed for the young aquatic in your family! During each session, a MMA educator will read a marine or science themed book, introduce you to one of the MMA's animal friends, and will finish up with an activity related to the story. Designed to be interesting for children ages 3 and older. Meet at the MMA Aquarium at 32 Washington Street. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is recommended but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. $15 per ticket. 9:15-10:00 a.m.
  • Close Looking: An Introduction to Scientific Illustration: Led by Nikoline Bohr, this class offers a unique opportunity to explore the different specimens in the Maria Mitchell Association's Scientific Collections, using real specimens as your reference for accurate and artistic illustration. This program is designed to be interesting for most ages. This program meets at the MMA Research Center at 2 Vestal Street. Pre-registration is required and registration closes at 3pm the day before the program. Materials are provided. Cost Per Participant: $30. Contact email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org. 10:00-11:30 a.m.
  • Seafarer Thursdays: Join the Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum, 158 Polpis Road,  for activities focused on water and sailing skills, including cork boat building, knot tying, sea shanties, life jacket evolution, and buoyancy. Included with museum admission, 10:00-1:00 p.m.
  • Book Signing with Nancy Thayer: Meet the author of Summer Light on Nantucket & other novels at Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main Street. 10:30-12:00 p.m.
  • Rafael Osona: Nantucket Auctions: This collection features furnishings and fine items from several notable Nantucket estates, including those of Carolyn and Roger Horchow, Carolyn Wells and Frank White, Joly Walton Stewart, and more. Highlights include a 1990 Mazda MX5 Miata Convertible, mid-century modern furniture, and an impressive selection of fine art. Over 735 lots! Bid online with Liveauctioneers, Bidsquare or Invaluable. Live Preview from 10:00-5:00 p.m. at the American Legion, Byron Sylvaro Post 82, 21 Washington Street.
  • Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour: Straight from the pages of Elin’s ultimate “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, comes a tour from Nantucket Island Tours that highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants and beaches, as well as showcasing iconic places that are prominent in her novels. Join Heather Thorpe, Elin’s sister, on a two-hour excursion that is sure to be a memory making experience on Nantucket! $100 per ticket. 3:00-5:00 p.m. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, online, or at 508-228-0334.
  • Current Vintage Trunk Show at Commonwealth: Commonwealth is hosting Current Vintage for a pop up this week. The queen of vintage, Beth English, will be hosting for a welcome reception and wine tasting 4:00-7:00 p.m. Commonwealth will continue to have her vintage selections available for the rest of the weekend at 16 Federal Street. commonwealthnantucket.com
  • Dreamland Concert Series x Nantucket Crisps Present: The Knocks: Get the party started for the fourth of July holiday weekend with The Knocks at The Dreamland! The Knocks are an acclaimed DJ and production duo known for their infectious blend of electronic music, pop, and disco. A second-floor concert, the evening will begin at 8pm with opener Decimel (DJ set), with The Knocks hitting the stage from 9:00-11pm. Cash bars, open deck overlooking the harbor and much more. Must be 21 or over to gain entry. Get your tickets early before the pricing goes up! Nonmembers: $87. Members: $49
  • Friends Fête 2025: Join the Nantucket Land & Water Council and Almanack Arts Colony in celebrating the inspiring beauty of Nantucket’s preserved and open spaces with generous hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, Yoho Raw Bar, live music, and dancing at the gorgeous and unique Almanack Arts Colony in Polpis! Purchase tickets and find more details here. 5:30 p.m.
  • Owl Prowl With Ginger Andrews: Join the MMA's Field Ornithologist, Ginger Andrews, as we listen for calls of a variety of nocturnal animals and birds. We will watch for owls as they begin their nightly activity. While an owl sighting is not guaranteed, you will certainly be able to observe several fascinating nocturnal animal species. Designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 8 and older. This program meets at the MMA Administrative Office at 4 Vestal Street. Cost: $30 per participant. 8:00-9:30 p.m.

Friday, July 4th

  • Family Fun and Games on the Sconset Chapel Lawn from 8:30-10:00 a.m., Bike Decorating and a Parade to celebrate independence day.
  • Independence Day Water Competition on Main Street: Between the Town of Nantucket Fire Department and the Boynton Lane Reserve. Attendees are asked to refrain from bringing water balloons and anything of that nature. Both fire trucks will complete for bragging rights to fill 55-gallon drums with water. Event will start at 10:30 a.m. and all are encouraged to attend!
  • Games and Activities on the Lawn at Children's Beach: Face painting, cornhold, tea toss and more! from 10:30-12:00!
  • Nantucket by Water Oyster Farm Tour: See how Oysters are grown and why they are so beneficial to the Nantucket Harbor. From 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Mór Wine Weekly Wine Tasting: Find your next favorite bottle or enjoy something new. Enjoy sips while you browse Commonwealth's fabulous resale collection. From 5-7 p.m. at 16 Federal Street.
  • 4th of July Cocktails at the Harborview Deck: get away from the crowds on the Fourth of July and enjoy sips and bites from 6:30-9:30 p.m. You can even enjoy some distant views of the fireworks off Jetties Beach. Come and enjoy the Nantucket Dreamland Theater at 17 South Water Street. $10 for members and $28 for non-members.
  • Independence Day Fireworks at Jetties Beach: End the day with the best fireworks display on nantucket that will last about 25-27 minutes long with music simultaneously cast on 97.7 WACK radio. Starting at 9 p.m.
  • Karaoke at Rose & Crown, every Friday and Saturday night starting at 10pm. Come join the fun and sing along at 23 South Water Street!
  • Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor: Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water departing from #1015 Straight Wharf. 6:30-8:00 p.m., find tickets at https://endeavorsailing.com/
  • Toast to Independence Day Fireworks aboard the Lynx: board the Tall Ship Lync for an unforgettable evening of sailing, champagne and treats from Island Kitchen. A front row seat for the fireworks display! From 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 5th

  • Join the Nantucket Clean Team, a group of likeminded volunteers who get together at 8:00 am on Saturday mornings to pick up litter and other debris others have left behind. Please join us and invite friends and family. Meet at Nobadeer Beach parking area.
  • Sustainable Nantucket Farmers & Artisans Market: Every Saturday downtown between Cambridge and Union Street 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., local artisans, handmade crafts and good company.
  • Feeding Frenzy at MMA Aquarium: Join MMA Aquarists and staff as they feed the ever-hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens to the public. Pre-registration recommended. $175 for a group of up to 5 people. 9:00 a.m. at 32 Washington Street.
  • Maria Mitchell Association: Ravenous Reptiles where you can learn about turtles, frogs snakes and more at the MMA Natural Science Museum. $20 per ticket. 9-9:45 a.m. at 7 Milk Street.
  • Sidewalk Art Show: Artists Association of Nantucket (AAN) is pleased to invite the public to the first Sidewalk Art Show of the season. In the dappled summer sun of the Nantucket Atheneum Garden, 1 India Street, 27 AAN artist members will be displaying their work. The outdoor art show is free and open to the public. 9:00-2:00 p.m.
  • Marine Storytime: Enjoy this program designed for the young aquatic in your family! During each session, a MMA educator will read a marine or science themed book, introduce you to one of the MMA's animal friends, and will finish up with an activity related to the story. Designed to be interesting for children ages 3 and older. Meet at the MMA Aquarium at 32 Washington Street. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is recommended but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. $15 per ticket. 9:15-10:00 a.m.
  • Rafael Osona: Nantucket Auctions: This collection features furnishings and fine items from several notable Nantucket estates, including those of Carolyn and Roger Horchow, Carolyn Wells and Frank White, Joly Walton Stewart, and more. Highlights include a 1990 Mazda MX5 Miata Convertible, mid-century modern furniture, and an impressive selection of fine art. Over 735 lots at the American Legion, Byron Sylvaro Post 82, 21 Washington Street. Bid online with Liveauctioneers, Bidsquare or Invaluable. Bidding begins at 9:30 a.m.
  • Book Signing with Nathaniel Philbrick: Author Nathaniel Philbrick will be signing copies of "In the Heart of the Sea" and other titles at Mitchell's Book Corner, 54 Main Street. 10:30-12:00 p.m.
  • Nanpuppets at Childrens Beach: Performance at Children's Beach, 15 Harbor Way, featuring handmade puppets created by Lizza Obremski. Donations appreciated! 11:00 a.m.
  • Dreamland Conversations: Kaitlan Collins & Elin Hilderbrand: Join us at The Dreamland for another exciting installment of our long-running Conversations series featuring Kaitlan Collins – CNN’s Chief White House Correspondent and anchor of The Source with Kaitlan Collins – in a wide-ranging conversation with Nantucket’s own powerhouse author, film and television producer, and podcaster Elin Hilderbrand. Nonmembers: $43 per ticket. Members: $30 per ticket. 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 6th

  • Book Signing with Claire Hoffman at Mitchell's Book Corner: Meet the author of Sister, Sinner from 10:30-12 p.m. https://nantucketbookpartners.com/
  • Nantucket Bird Walk with Ginger Andrews: explore Nantucket's birdy landscapes and hidden nooks with a local bird guide. The island has so many varied species all close together, making it a great place to look and listen to for birds. From 7:45-10:00 a.m. at 33 Washington Street. Registration available online, $30 per person.
  • Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour: Straight from the pages of Elin’s ultimate “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, comes a tour from Nantucket Island Tours that highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants and beaches, as well as showcasing iconic places that are prominent in her novels. Join Heather Thorpe, Elin’s sister, on a two-hour excursion that is sure to be a memory making experience on Nantucket! $100 per ticket. 3:00-5:00 p.m. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, online, or at 508-228-0334.
  • Dreamland Comedy X Nantucket Crisps Present: Jeremy Piven: Actor and comedian Jeremy Piven (“Entourage”, “Grosse Pointe Blank”, “Runaway Jury”) is coming to The Dreamland for two sets of hilarious comedy from the main stage. Be sure to get the best seats before they’re gone! General Public: $107. Dreamland Members: $89. Showtimes: 6:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Monday, July 7th

  • MMA Marine Ecology Field Trip: What sea creatures live around Nantucket? Find out as you help to collect, identify, and release fish, crabs, shrimp, and other marine creatures with our huge seine net. This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 10 and older. Meet at the Hither Creek Beach Access (near 25 Massachusetts Ave). All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Cost Per Participant: $35. Pre-registration is required. 8:30-10 a.m.
  • Feeding Frenzy at MMA Aquarium: Join MMA Aquarists and staff as they feed the ever-hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens to the public. Pre-registration recommended. $175 for a group of up to 5 people. 9:00 a.m. at 32 Washington Street.
  • Maria Mitchell Association: Ravenous Reptiles where you can learn about turtles, frogs snakes and more at the MMA Natural Science Museum. $20 per ticket. 9-9:45 a.m. at 7 Milk Street.
  • Nantucket Blues: An Indigo Shibori Dyeing Workshop: Join us as we learn about Shibori, a Japanese dyeing technique with indigo. You will enjoy a hands on experience producing an indigo vat and using it to create your own Shibori piece.  Member Fee: $160. Nonmember Fee:  $210. Materials Fee: $25. Held at The 1800 House, 4 Mill Street. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
  • Book Signing with Jeff Verney: Meet the author of Bunnies to the Rescue: A Nantucket Tail at Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main Street. 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Bug Bonanza: Adventure with MMA Natural Science Museum staff to collect insects like a scientist and learn about the incredible traits and behaviors of all the creates we catch and release. Meet at Mill Hill Park, off Prospect Street, please turn into the driveway with the sign that says “Historic Cemetery” and directly on your right is the Mill Hill Park parking lot. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. Cost Per Participant: $20. 2:00- 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, July 8th

  • Kids Metal Detecting with Nikoline Bohr: Join metal detectorist Nikoline Bohr for a hands on adventure for kids! One hour beachside program along the beautiful shores of Nantucket. Pre-registration online, $30 per person. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
  • Dance Festival Tiny Dancer Wonderland Party: come leap in a special dance lesson taught by local ballerinas, and enjoy some tasty treats. 10-11:30 a.m. at the Dreamland Studio Theater.
  • Celebrating Lucille Jordan: A Life in Color The Inaugural Exhibition of Her Watercolors: celebrate the legacy of the real estate icon and philanthropist. Showing of her watercolors benefits the Children's house. 28 Easy Street from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. for more information go to https://susanlisterlocke.com/



Do you have an event coming up this week that should be included on this page? Email us at nantucketcurrent@n-magazine.com