REVIEW NANTUCKET, Holiday 2019

1

2

3

Holiday

• Lifestyles • home • garden • Art • Weddings

ANDERSON PUBLISHING | Box 1018 Nantucket, MA 02554 | P: 508.228.3866 | F: 508.228.9576 4

REVIEW NANTUCKET

5

Dear Readers,

Nantucket . . . a natural beauty and that which those who live here enhance! This islanders sure does know how to do that.

Somewhat, like a woman who knows how to enhance her natural assets with clothes and makeup. The parts do make up the whole. So it is with the island. She is a natural beauty, and we encourage that beauty to come out even more.

Be it with window boxes, trimmed privet hedges, meticulously painted trim and front doors on our homes, decades-old brick sidewalks, cobbled streets, the fountain in the middle of Main Street filled with flowers, a beautiful boat basin, lighthouses spotted around the island . . . and so much more! And then, there is the way we know how to decorate this natural beauty for a party. Be it Daffodil Weekend, the Fourth of July, Cranberry Festival, Halloween and of course at this time of year, Christmas Stroll.

We enjoy decorating our properties with wreaths enhanced with cranberries, pheasant feathers, magnolia leaves, fruit, red winter berries and of course elaborate velvet or satin ribbons. Or, one may be as simple as scrub oak branches entwined with white fairy lights. Garlands drape fences, window boxes are filled with seasonal greens and of course, Main Street and adjoining streets are lined with Christmas trees, all decorated by the school children.

We certainly do love our island and always look to show her off. I must admit, winter decor seems to last the longest and is enjoyed by both children and adults alike. I hope you make Nantucket part of your holiday traditions, coming here to enjoy the cuisine of our world-renowned restaurants, fabulous sales in quaint shops getting ready to close for the season or just for the elaborate, yet tasteful holiday decorations. The Nantucket Whaling Museum is also host to a multitude of decorated Christmas trees that wind throughout the entire museum. An experience not to be missed! Even a walk on the beach at this time of year offers the distinct smell of salt in the crisp air, more pungent than in the summertime.

I hope you enjoy my island as much as I do. There is so much to see and experience here, no matter what the season.

Experience her, she is beyond special.

Sincerely,

Deborah Anderson Publisher

6

living by the sea

7

8

62

53

20

67

41

31

CONTENTS FALL AND WINTER EVENTS

20

53

IN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

31

62

NANTUCKET BLUE BOOK OF REAL ESTATE

41

67

There is so much to do from Fall into the New Year. Come and see what this time of year has for you to enjoy. It is a magical time of year.

Take time to visit the island during the shoulder seasons. It is entirely different from high season and very relaxing. You will find plenty to do here.

See the “best of the best” brokers and agents to contact for sales and rentals on Nantucket. View some stunning properties that are available..

WHAT DO WE DO ALL WINTER?

Whether you are spending your first winter on Nantucket, or your fiftieth, or even just visiting for a long weekend. Here is your guide to the simplest of pleasures to enjoy.

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

You could say that the island of Nantucket essentially drenches itself in the holiday spirit. Even Santa himself makes a visit,

NANTUCKET WEDDINGS

Wedding phototographers and vendors have a special touch for creating what couples have dreamed about.

9

ANDERSON PUBLISHING publisher & editor Deborah M. Anderson design, imaging & prepress Anderson Publishing senior director of digital graphics and print production Gustavo Gonçalves office manager Rebecca Devine website manager Bridgette Hynes contributing photographers Becky Zadroga Deb Anderson contributing writers Rebecca Nimerfroh proofreader Laura Ortiz circulation Complimentary issues of REVIEW are distributed by our advertisers and on local stands It is sold nationally at Barnes & Noble and through Amazon.com Other sales are through subscription on our Website:

NantucketOnline.com

REVIEW Nantucket 2019 all rights reserved.

Reproduction of any part of this publication by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited.

Requests for copies, subscriptions, advertising inquiries and editorial or photographic submissions should be sent to:

ANDERSON PUBLISHING

Box 1018, Nantucket, MA 02554 Tel: 508.228.3866 • Fax: 508.228.9576 E-mail: office@NantucketOnline.com

publishers of

NANTUCKET PHONE BOOK ONLY Nantucket • REVIEW Nantucket HOME & GARDEN NANTUCKET CUISINE • ISLAND WEDDINGS NantucketOnline.com • IslandWeddingsOnline.com

follow us @NantucketOnline

10

11

12

13

14

15

f a l l on nantucket

16

17

W i n t e r on nantucket 18

19

Fall & Winter Events

To help you plan . . .

20

see what’s happening on NantucketOnline.com!

FESTIVAL OF WREATHS

November 27, 29 – December 1

Wreaths created by Island residents are on display at the Whaling Museum. Bid on one of

(Closed Thanksgiving Day)

the 80 beautifully crafted wreaths, win it and cross one more item off your holiday “to-do” list!

Nantucket Whaling Museum • 508-228-1894

ANNUAL TURKEY PLUNGE

Thursday, November 28

Nantucket Atheneum fundraiser for the Weezie Children’s Library featuring hundreds of

www.nantucketatheneum.org • 508-228-1110

spectators and swimmers who brave the cold water at Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AND COMMUNITY CAROLING

Friday, November 29, 5pm People line Main Street, anxiously awaiting the lighting of the trees and sing Christmas carols.

“Nantucket Noel,” which includes Christmas Stroll, begins with the lighting of hundreds of freshly cut balsam trees that line the streets of downtown. The tree lighting takes place the evening following Thanksgiving Day.

FESTIVAL OF TREES The entire Whaling Museum is filled with creatively decorated Christmas trees! This island tradition features brilliantly decorated trees designed by community members, local

December 6 – December 24 (daily) (Closed Christmas Day) December 26 – December 31 (daily)

merchants, nonprofit organizations, artists, artisans and creative schoolchildren.

Nantucket Whaling Museum • 508-228-1894

CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOUR

Friday, December 6, 4:30 – 7:30pm

The Friends of Nantucket Public Schools select and decorate historic and contemporary

Friends of Nantucket Public Schools • 508-332-9906

houses in chosen neighborhoods within walking distance of each other. It is a rare treat to be let into some of these grand homes.

46TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS STROLL The Town Crier declares the start of Christmas Stroll and all the festivities begin.

Friday, December 6 • Chamber of Commerce • 508-228-1700 The Chamber of Commerce judges store windows and trees and ribbons are given. This is an ideal day to do this before the crowds arrive tomorrow.

Saturday, December 7, 12 noon Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive via Coast Guard vessel at Straight Wharf and ride up Main Street accompanied by the Town Crier. Christmas Stroll is officially opened!

Sunday, December 8 Get up early, have breakfast and then shop for some of those last-minute gifts.

HOLIDAY POPS ON NANTUCKET The Dreamland presents the entire Cape Symphony and members of the Chatham Chorale along with special guest appearances with local favorites Merrick Brannigan

Sunday, December 15, 4:30pm Nantucket High School Auditorium Dreamland • 508-332-4822

and the Accidentals and Naturals from Nantucket High School.

BOLSHOI LIVE: THE NUTCRACKER As the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, Marie’s wooden nutcracker doll comes to life and transforms into a prince! Soon joined by her other toys that have also come to

Sunday, December 22, 12:55pm Dreamland Main Theater Dreamland • 508-332-4822

life, Marie and her prince embark on a dreamy unforgettable adventure. The Nutcracker enchants the Bolshoi stage for two hours of enchantment and magic.

NANTUCKET NEW YEAR The entire town is ready to start a new year. Celebrations abound with family activities, restaurant events and daily activities. Ring in the New Year at the New Year’s Eve under the Sea Gala in the Grand Ballroom at The Nantucket Hotel.

Saturday, December 28 – Wednesday, January 1 Chamber of Commerce • 508-228-1700 COMPLETE CALENDAR AVAILABLE ON

NANTUCKETONLINE.COM

21

NEW WEBSITE !

BE

IN

T OUCH W ITH

THE

E NTIRE I SLAND

~ FIND THE BEST BUSINESSES ~ ADVERTISE ON OUR WEBSITE 508.228.3866 FOLLOW US @NANTUCKETONLINE

TOUCH DIAL . . .

ALL BUSINESSES FROM

THE

NANTUCKET PHONE BOOK

FIND YOUR INTEREST . . .

VISITING, LIVING, REAL ESTATE

AND

WEDDINGS

BEAUTIFUL PHOTOGRAPHY . . .

FROM OUR COFFEE TABLE MAGAZINES

EXPLORE WHAT TO DO WHERE

TO

STAY, EAT, DRINK, SHOP . . .

ISLAND WEDDINGS . . .

REAL WEDDINGS – CREATE MEMORIES

22

FOR A

LIFETIME

N antucket O nline.com Cliffside Beach Club

BED & BREAKFASTS, HOTELS & INNS, COTTAGES, PRIVATE HOUSES

OUTDOOR AND INDOOR ACTIVITIES, THEATRES, CLUBS

Zofia & Co.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED PLAN A WEDDING.

TO

KNOW

TO

PHOTOS OF NANTUCKET WEDDINGS.

MENUS AND PHOTOS OF RESTAURANTS AND C HEF PROFILES

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

Deb Anderson

Deb Anderson

30

Deb Anderson

In

[ÉÄ|wtçá

for the

ISLE SEA YOU AFTER SUMMER . . .

AFTER LABOR DAY,

THINGS CHANGE TO AN

ENTIRELY DIFFERENT PACE AS WE MOVE INTO FALL. EXPECT TO SEE LOTS OF WEDDING TENTS BEING SET UP, BRIDES AND GROOMS ON PHOTO SHOOTS AT ICONIC LOCATIONS AROUND THE ISLAND: ON

BRANT POINT LIGHTHOUSE, IN TOWN

MAIN STREET, AT THE

THE SIDE OF THE

COMPASS ROSE ON

RALPH LAUREN

BUILDING,

THE BEACHES AND MANY OTHER ICONIC SPOTS.

PARKING IN TOWN CAN STILL BE SURPRISINGLY TRICKY DUE TO THE NUMBER OF WEDDING GUESTS

STAYING

HERE.

THIS

IS ALSO A

TIME WHEN GREAT DEALS CAN BE FOUND AS STORES ARE DEPLETING THEIR INVENTORY. IT IS ALWAYS NICE TO STRIKE UP A CONVERSATION WITH SHOPKEEPERS; THEY WILL BE HAPPY TO HELP YOU FIND THAT ONE PARTICULAR THING YOU ARE AFTER, AS WELL AS GIVE YOU Deb Anderson

GENERAL INSIGHTS INTO LIFE AT SEA.

31

Thanksgiving on Nantucket I t can stay fairly warm here into the holidays, thanks to the island being

enveloped by the Gulf Stream that influences the island’s climate. Beach

activity is now a memory, except for walks and shell collecting. The most rewarding things to do now are visiting museums, going on sightseeing tours, biking trips on the well-maintained bike paths stretching out to Polpis, Madaket and ‘Sconset and going to cozy coffee shops and restaurants.

There is an exception to the decrease in beach activity – the famous Turkey Plunge. This annual tradition greatly benefits the Weezie Library for Children at the Nantucket Atheneum – as well as just being great fun.

Hundreds of swimmers and spectators gather at Children’s Beach on Thanksgiving morning to watch a crowd of brave souls charge into the freezing harbor. Bring down some hot chocolate or coffee for a swimmer to help take the sting out from the cold water. Feeling brave this year? Join in and register at the library on 1 India Street, 508-228-1110 or online at www.nantucketatheneum.org.

There are many options for house rentals (contact a local real estate office), hotels and B & Bs. Find that special “room of your own” that matches your personality and remember it for when you come back another time – as so many do! Settling into your “home away from home” can really be the best part of the trip. Where you stay will be your base of relaxation as you settle into the history of this magical place.

The day after Thanksgiving, winter on Nantucket – titled “Nantucket Noel” – officially begins with the annual tree lighting ceremony. Everyone gathers at dusk on Main Street to enjoy the moment the switch is pulled to light up hundreds of lights on the Christmas trees that line streets in town. The community comes together to sing carols. After the event go to a bar with friends for a drink and hors d’oeuvres or hopefully you have made dinner reservations in advance.

In the week to come all the trees will be decorated by schoolchildren and community organizations in anticipation for the big event the following weekend – Christmas Stroll.

32

Holiday Calendar . . . . . . . .

In for Stroll DAY G

et your warm mittens and scarves on; grab a warm coffee, tea or cider,

and let us help you get to know where to go for Nantucket’s annual wintry

1

bash, Stroll Weekend.

While it certainly has its fair share of legendary and historic tales from the past, Nantucket is far from a ghost town during this three-day extravaganza.

The bustling activity, without exaggeration, makes town just as busy as any day in July or August.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1

All the streets in town will be lit up like jewels by the Christmas trees that have their own personality and theme. Each tree is decorated by different island organizations, shops and mainly by the schoolchildren. They make decorations in their classrooms and then each class is bussed to Town to decorate their tree.

Have breakfast or just grab a cup of coffee and walk around early in the morning before the boats start to arrive and the streets get crowded. You can look at all the shop windows that have been decorated beautifully by the shop owners.

Pick up an event schedule from the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce at the bottom of Main Street (Zero Main Street, 2nd Floor, 508-228-1700 or at www.nantucketchamber.org).

12 NOON

Find a place to have lunch. There are so many located right in town. Be sure to try the clam chowder to take the chill off. Every restaurant makes it differently – all are fabulous!

Also, try the renowned Nantucket Bay scallops – they are now in season! continued

33

4:00 - 7:00 pm The Annual Holiday House Tour benefits The Friends of Nantucket Public Schools. A half-dozen houses, within walking distance of each other, are chosen and uniquely decorated by the owners or the committee. This will be one of the rare times you can get a peek into some of the unique and historic houses. The ticket price includes visiting The Festival of Trees at the Nantucket Whaling Museum on Broad Street. Tickets can be bought in shops around town and at any one of the houses.

7:00 pm After a day of walking and taking in the gorgeous glittering displays, how about a bite of dinner from some of the best chefs in the world? Most if not all restaurants are open for Stroll, but advance reservations are highly recommended. Often there are prix fixe menus and specials so don’t miss out. Go out for after dinner drinks or go back to your room and relax. Anticipate the festivities that will take place tomorrow – the official Stroll day.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2

DAY 10:00 am

2

THIS IS THE OFFICIAL DAY OF STROLL ACTIVITIES

The Festival of Trees at the Nantucket Whaling Museum (13 Broad Street, 508-228-1894, www.nha.org) starts the Friday of Stroll weekend and continues through all of December. These community-decorated trees spread throughout the rooms of the museum and are lit up under a huge whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling.

11:00 am

Main Street is closed down for the day to let people stroll and carolers in Victorian regalia roam about singing. There are also musicians playing festive music. Don’t forget the tall “Magic Talking Tree” at the top of Main Street.

Each year a different designer gets to decorate this special tree – take the kids up to it and listen to what it says! Tour guides create guided walks specific to Stroll and there is no limit to the events put on for all ages by the island’s arts, music, history and science organizations. Most shops offer refreshments to strollers.

12:00 noon

On Nantucket, St. Nick travels in style. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus arrive via a Coast Guard vessel down at Straight Wharf and are brought up Main Street in a horse and carriage at noon. He then goes into the Jared Coffin House at the head of Centre Street where children can sit on his lap and tell him what is on their wish list for Christmas.

34

2:00 pm Nantucket is famed for its unique shopping and the rarities you will behold are like none other. From antiques, to souvenirs, to that one perfect piece of clothing you’ve been looking for in just the right fabric and color, Nantucket has you covered.

6:00 pm Relax with some cocktails before dinner. Try one restaurant for drinks and apps and then another for dinner. Of course, you can try yet another for aperitifs and dessert. Nantucket is known for the quality and uniqueness of its restaurants. Read about them and some of the chefs in Nantucket CUISINE, the ultimate dining guide on the island. It is sure to be in your guest house and if not, look for it at The Hub (29 Main Street).

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3

DAY 8:00 am

3

For early AM munchies, try any of the local restaurants in Town or stay warm and eat at your B & B or hotel.

11:00 am

Still haven’t gotten enough shop therapy? Of course not! If you head back to Main Street, head down toward the water where you will find local “fish shanty” shops on old South Wharf.

1:00 to 5:00 pm

For lunch in town, you can grab a bite at many locations. They will all be excellent! After lunch, do what you have not yet done, finish the last of your shopping list and then get ready to leave this magical Christmas wonderland.

You will be glad you came.

The next big event on Nantucket will be in the spring when the “daffies” an antique car parade with 100 cars that line up on Main Street before they travel out to the village of ’Sconset for the Daffodil Picnic.

The Stroll decorations will go from holiday red and green to daffodil yellow and green. It will come sooner than you think! For now, enjoy the tranquility of this time of year.

35

36

37

38

39

40

Nantucket Blue Book Real Estate B ro k e r s / A g e n t s

& P ro p e r t ie s

41

42

the best of the best . . .

43

Town

T

his carefully created residence contains both the traditional infrastructure of our historic

past, yet resembles the craftsmanship of a modern establishment. Just a few feet from Main Street, this wonderfully updated Pine Street home has the framework to illustrate the configuration of an original 1830s Nantucket masterpiece.

Three floors of historical charm with four bedrooms, four baths, dining room, and several living rooms, creates a vibrant playground for gathering with family and friends. In addition, the private fenced in yard contains a rear porch and patio, outdoor shower, and garden.

17 Pine Street $ 2,895,000.

A n g e l C o n r a d Fr a z i e r a t N a n t u c k e t R e a l t y A d v i s o r s 15 North Beach Street, 2A • 508.367.9557 • angel@nantucketrealtyadvisors.com

44

46

Town

T

he home is a stone’s throw from Main Street and the heart of town’s activity, but is also moments away from Cisco area

beaches, Bartlett’s Farm, Cisco Brewery, the fish market and wonderful walking or biking trails. Walk to town for dinner, bike to the beach for a picnic - 16 Winn proposes the ideal Nantucket Summer lifestyle! This stunning, turnkey property offers a versatile configuration for family and guests with a 5 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms main house and a poolside cabana with a full bathroom. The outdoor living space is vast, lush and private; the grounds have been expertly planned and maintained. The pool is ideal for exercise or relaxation on hot summer days.

16 Winn Street $5,995,000.

A n g e l C o n r a d Fr a z i e r a t N a n t u c k e t R e a l t y A d v i s o r s 15 North Beach Street, 2A • 508.367.9557 • angel@nantucketrealtyadvisors.com

47

Town

T

his well appointed 4 bedroom, 5.5 bath home epitomizes sophistication and style in its contemporary design, while retaining vestiges of a historic past. The highest level of craftsmanship and materials were used in the thoughtful renovation which is apparent in every detail Town $3,900,000.

Marybeth Gibson, Sales & Rentals at Maury People Sotheby’s International Realty 37 Main Street • 508.325.2897 • marybeth@maurypeople.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

48

49

S

tunning newly constructed contemporary beach compound with sweeping 1st-floor water views. The main house is 5 bedroom, 5 and 3 half bath with over 5,500 sq ft. of living space. There is a guest cottage, gunite pool, and luxurious cabana surrounded by extensive and thoughtfully designed hardscape. Less than 50 yards from the property is a grassy path to Squam Beach, and abutting the property is over 300 acres of unbuildable Nantucket Conservation Foundation land offering a unique and private setting. The chic and stylish estate was thoughtfully conceived and executed. This stunning property is offered turnkey and is available for immediate occupancy for family and friends to enjoy this summer!

Squam

56 Squam Road $6,950,000.

J Pepper Frazier Company 19 Centre Street • 508.228.3202 • jpfco.com

50

51

52

What Do we

Do All Winter

by REBECCA NIMERFROH

?

53

54

Nantucket year-rounders are used to it. e wide-eyed stares, the curiosity.

“You live here?,” a tourist will ask.

“Even in the winter?”

In response, almost any year-rounder’s face will soften, thinking to that ideal time when the island gets oh-so-sleepy and quiet, when friends are no longer “summer busy” and dinners last long after a decanted bottle of red is all but drunk. When canceled boats delaying our groceries and Amazon Prime orders reinforce the New England way of making do or doing without. When storms rattle the hatches and snowy owls spot our beaches.

When only a few restaurants in town remain open, their windows fogged with the joyful breath of those dining inside…

Oh, the winter.

“Yep, even in the winter,” we will nod, “and it’s not so bad.”

Whether you are spending your first winter on Nantucket, or your fiftieth, or even just visiting for a long weekend, here is your guide to the simplest of pleasures to enjoy while we all await the beginnings of a fresh, new summer season.

55

DINNER PARTIES WITH FRIENDS Got a knock out recipe, or want to try a new one? Why not call a few friends and arrange a potluck at your house or theirs, where over a delicious meal you can catch up on all the latest happenings in their life and yours. In the winter, this is the ideal time to gather, whether it be by a cozy fire, or around a table. Add some food, some wine, and as simple as this evening is, we promise it is likely to be one you won’t soon forget.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT THE CULINARY CENTER Only in the off-season, the Nantucket Culinary Center offers

56

open mic night every Thursday night at 7 pm, hosted by local comedian David Hayes. This free event combines some of the best talents of the island, from local singers, songwriters, comedians, poets, and more, served alongside chef-made dinner specials that vary each week. A cash bar helps motivate the nervous toward the stage. As David says, performing at open mic isn’t to show off a perfect talent, it is to practice and improve your talent. But nevertheless, the room is as supportive as it is joyful and fun. For those not into performing, but still craving some social interaction, trivia night is also hosted in the same space on Tuesdays at 7 pm by former island physician Dr. Greg Hinson.

57

SEARCHING FOR SNOWY OWLS Living on an island, 30 miles out to sea in the winter does pay off occasionally, especially when you can go to the beach for the rare sighting of a beautiful white snowy owl. These owls travel to Nantucket from the Arctic Circle and look much like a small pile of snow from far away. This is not to say these creatures are small; snowy owls are actually one of the heaviest species of owls, weighing about four pounds, and up close and personal they are about the size of a toddler. Note that males are all white, while females have grey or black markings. So grab your best camera and head out on some deserted beaches to see if you can encounter this gorgeous and elusive creature.

SUNSET AND SUNRISE CHASING It happens every time, you plan to catch the sunset at your favorite beach and wham! You only have ten minutes before it is scheduled to set. You scramble, grab your coat and run to your car, and head down dirt roads until you finally get to the beach, where you are just in time to see that golden crescent

58

dip down below the horizon. That is sunset chasing at its finest,

all, winter is a time to be creative, and if you crave social

and it’s considered something of a competitive sport in the

interaction, it’s a great way to combine both.

winter months. Grab a camera, add a few friends, and you’ve got a competition on your hands for the best sunset picture

GO TO AMERICA!

taken. Throw in a beverage and a snack and well, you’ve got

Take a day trip to what the islanders refer to as “America!”

a party. You don’t even need to get out of your car; but if you

Ferries offer discounted same day trips to Hyannis where, with

do, you can opt like a local to keep it warm and running for

a little know-how, Nantucketers can let their hair down and

when you return. Likewise, with the sun rising later in the

enjoy some “real world” activities like catching a movie, going

winter months, you can make a sunrise viewing on the eastern

to the mall, or eating at a new restaurant. Pro tip: While

side of the island an excellent start to your day.

shopping at the mall, leave the items you wish to purchase on hold at each store until you are all done so you don’t need to

CLUBS

carry them all. Or, bring a rolling suitcase, and fill it to your

Nantucket has a plethora of clubs, you just have to find the

heart’s content. Careful, though, as a storm could keep you

one that fits your curiosity. The Curling Club meets weekly at

stranded for the night, but luckily there are several hotels in

the Nantucket Skating rink, and there are several book clubs

the Hyannis area that offer a special “islander rate” for locals.

hosted in conjunction with the island’s bookstores. Tarot Card

With their indoor pools, arcade rooms and in-house

Reading is hosted at the Atheneum, and knitting at both the

restaurants, you may never want to come back home.

yarn store Flock and monthly at the Culinary Center. Bottom line is if there isn’t a club that interests you, start one because there will undoubtedly be people who will want to join! After

59

The

Most

Wonderful

Time of the Year

by REBECCA NIMERFROH

60

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year and in the most wonderful place too. It’s the holiday season, from Christmas Stroll to New Year’s Eve on the island of Nantucket, a time of year when the streets of downtown are lit with decorated Christmas trees in front of every store. When every house twinkles with lights. When adults are excited as children, sometimes dressed in the most ridiculous seasonal attire, (complete with matching sweaters, hats and pants) and the shops, restaurants and bars enjoy their final hurrah in celebration for the year gone by. It’s a time for that one last opportunity to gather with friends before everyone travels this way and that; it’s a time to celebrate the season that was.

61

You could say that the island essentially drenches itself in the holiday spirit. Even Santa himself makes a visit, arriving on the Coast Guard boat on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, the weekend referred to as Christmas Stroll. Locals say Christmas Stroll first got its name when friends and family would explore the town together, “strolling” into stores and window-shopping for each other’s gifts.

It began decades ago when local merchants stayed open so towsnpeople could go Christmas shopping on-island. Families could shop together, see neighbors and friends while sampling festive food and drink offered by every shop. Cupcakes (made by women in the community) were decorated by children inside of the Methodist Church hall. It was a special evening, that has continued to this day.

Today, this weekend is still special, with stores offering excellent sale prices with island-made craft markets popping up in various locations as well. Restaurants offer the best of the best in the culinary world, with most of their doors closing on New Year’s Day until spring.

After Santa arrives by boat, and is taken to the Jared Coffin House, where he will meet and take pictures with children.

62

photos both pages by Deb Anderson

Additional seasonal events include caroling in front of the huge Christmas tree at the base of the steps at the Pacific National Bank on Main Street, and several restaurants are open for brunch straight through dinner. On this day, the streets of the Town will be as crowded as if it were July or August, and many a store will be offering complimentary hot apple cider and other tasty treats. People are dressed with seasonal attire that is sometimes loud and gaudy (the more gaudy, the better). It is truly a celebration of the end to the season that was. This celebration goes late into the night on Friday and Saturday, with live music and entertainment, special dining options and more; be sure to check local listings a week or two before.

After Stroll Weekend, the island gets much quieter that is, until New Year’s Eve. Again, on Nantucket, with every holiday decoration twinkling in all its glory, there are several bars and restaurants that fill to the brim on this special day, and several dining options are also available. Stores will be even more discounted, as this is a great time to shop, your gifts all bought except for the most important one, the one for yourself.

Liquor shops often open their doors to wine tastings this time of year, an excellent opportunity to snag a delicious bottle or two at a likely discounted rate, an excellent option should you choose to celebrate the end of the year in your very own home. Most stores have a fine selection of complementary foods to pair with the wine, including cheese, artisanal crackers, chocolate and more.

Many don’t know that Nantucket is the first spot of American soil to see the sun on New Year’s Day; in fact, a team of

63

astronomers proved this on January 1, 2000, so if you are an early riser, head to an eastern-facing beach with a blanket and a thermos full of hot coffee or tea. From the warmth of your car, you can listen to holiday music while you watch the sunrise over another year.

So, whatever you should choose to do this holiday season, and however you choose to do it, be sure to take a moment to walk around downtown Nantucket. Enjoy holly leaves bursting from every window and bow and take time to celebrate another year on the island and the summer season not too far-off in the distant future.

64

photos both pages by Deb Anderson

65

66

Island

WEDDINGS 67

68

diana &

Jeff La Casse Becky Zadroga Photography

OCTOBER 10 . 13 . 19

n a n t u c k e t 69

70

71

72

73

74

75

Zofia & Co.

76

77

We offer everything there is 2019 Fall/Winter

2019 Summer

What’s on your coffee table?

Beautiful pictures, informative articles and prime businesses can be found in ONLY and REVIEW 2019 Spring

78

2019 July

2019 August

2019 Holiday

to know about Nantucket!

E T I S EB W   N EW

For residents and visitors alike, NantucketOnline.com is essential in planning a vacation, a wedding, finding a real estate agent, choosing a restaurant or just how to learn more about our special Island.

2019

2019

2019

CUISINE all about restaurants and take-out

NANTUCKET PHONE BOOK all about who services the Island

Home & Garden Resourse Directory for all building and garden needs

ANDERSON PUBLISHING 508.228.3866

79

Directory

80

Anderson Publishing, Inc.

78 – 79

Audrey Sterk

25

Bellevue, Linda

43

BPC Architecture

13

J Pepper Frazier Co.

50 – 51

Michelle Duarte Anderson

28

Nantucket Architecture Group

37

Nantucket Bike Shop

76

Nantucket By The Sea

26 – 27

Nantucket Diamond

IFC – 1, 2 – 3, IBC

Christopher’s Home Furnishings

15

Cliffside Beach Club

14

NantucketOnline.com

22 – 23

Coastal Charm

38 – 39

Nantucket Post-A-Notes

29

Colony Rug Company

11

Nantucket Realty Advisors

OBC, 43 – 45, 47

DCL Painting

28

Nantucket Windmill Auto

76

Finn’s Fish Art

24

Sarkisian, Robert

43

Frazier, Angel Conrad

OBC, 43 – 45, 47

September Productions

77

Gibson, Marybeth

48 – 49

T.C.E.Contractors

28

Holdgate, Dawn

43

Trudel lll, John F.

43

Huber, Mimi

43

Ty One On Sportfishing

24