9 Fall Festivities You Won’t Want To Miss on the Cape & Islands
When it comes to visiting Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, it’s true: Good things do come to those who wait. In fact, autumn might just be the best time of year to visit this coastal region.
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Along with beautiful weather, lower prices and thinner crowds, the Cape and Islands come alive with fall fests and celebrations that embrace local culture, cuisine and the sea itself.
Martha’s Vineyard Derby (September 15-October 19)
For nearly 75 years, “The Derby” has been a time to renew friendships, share a hot cup of coffee and create memories that fuel the winter’s exaggerated fish tales. Come and be part of almost eight decades of great fishing, a rich history, meeting new friends, beautiful sunrises and sunsets! Derby registration is open at all Island tackle shops and Derby HQ throughout the Derby.
Nantucket Restaurant Week (September 30-October 6)
Nantucket Restaurant Week highlights seasonal flavors and local cuisine in special prix fixe dinner menus. Whether returning to your favorite watering hole or finally trying that new spot you’ve been eyeing, three- to five-course menus for just $25 to $50 per person should be the only excuse you need to eat out every night of the week.
Yarmouth Seaside Festival (October 12-14)
Now in its 41st year, Yarmouth’s annual Seaside Festival has something for everyone: evening beach bonfires, sand sculptures, kayak races, an arts and crafts fair, live music, a festive parade and the highly anticipated bed-race competition. A spectacular fireworks display rounds out the fun Sunday night over Seagull Beach.
16th Annual Nantucket Cranberry Festival (October 12)
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The Nantucket Conservation Foundation’s Milestone Cranberry Bog, one of two remaining commercial cranberry bogs on Nantucket, sets the scene for the annual Nantucket Cranberry Festival. Immerse yourself in the art of cranberry harvesting with bog tours, hayrides and interactive experiences! The day also includes live music, kids’ programs, antique tractor displays and a rope walk bridge.
Art of Chocolate Festival (October 12-13)
Few things bring people together quite like chocolate ― hence the universal appeal of the Vineyard’s annual Art of Chocolate Festival at Featherstone Center for the Arts. Indulge in rich concoctions by Island bakers, artisans and chocolate connoisseurs ― everything from candies, cookies and cakes to an old-fashioned chocolate fountain. Named to USA Today’s Top Ten Small Town Festivals!
NantucketGrown Food Festival (October 18-20)
The NantucketGrown Food Festival celebrates the bounty of Nantucket’s harvest and local food scene. Celebrate Nantucket’s cultural diversity at the opening reception at Nantucket Yacht Club, where chefs are paired with farmers and local food purveyors who will take your taste buds on a culinary adventure. A free Family Fun Day on Saturday at the Joyce N. Furman Youth Garden will focus on cultivating healthy minds and bodies. Take a master fermentation course with Chef Qwang from Vietnam at Bartlett’s Farm, peruse the farmer’s market at Nantucket Culinary and catch a brunch throwdown between local chefs at The Proprietors Bar & Table on Sunday.
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Wellfleet OysterFest (October 19-20)
The pearl of Cape Cod’s seafood is undoubtedly the Wellfleet oyster, and each year fans from the Cape and beyond flock to Wellfleet Oyster Festival to feast on the celebrated shellfish. Held in the community’s town center, the two-day festival offers shucking competitions, local food and drink vendors, live music performances, culinary demos and family-friendly fun.
Martha’s Vineyard Food and Wine Festival (October 23-27)
The annual Martha’s Vineyard Food and Wine Festival is a foodie’s dream come true! A blend of renowned chefs and sommeliers together with Island farmers, fishermen and artisans make this a festival like no other. Enjoy everything the festival has to offer, or pick and choose the best seminars, activities and attractions for you. See you at the Grand Tasting!
Chatham Oktoberfest (October 26)
Germany comes to Chatham every October, complete with a beer garden featuring authentic Oktoberfest foods like bratwurst, sauerkraut and knockwurst. A Bavarian band adds to the lively Chatham Oktoberfest atmosphere, which is decidedly enhanced by the many activities, including bobbing for apples and pumpkin bowling. Don’t miss the wildly creative Pumpkin People in the Park while you’re there.
Ready to book your fall getaway to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket? Visit the links below to learn more about spending this season by the sea:
CapeCodChamber.org
MVY.com
NantucketChamber.org
This post is funded by the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism.