Yesterday's Island/Today's Nantucket, Vol. 56, Issue #7, July 2 - 9, 2026

JULY 2-8, 2026 • CELEBRATING 56 YEARS • PRICELESS • EVENTS • SHOPPING

‘

Todays Nantucket

Volume: 56 Number: 7 • Est. 1970 • Island Maps • Island Recreation • YesterdaysIsland.com

In this issue...

photo courtesy Nantucket Historical Association

Remembering the Bicentennial… see page 5

photo courtesy Nantucket Comedy Festival

20 Years of Laughter… see page 12

photo by Suzanne Daub

Art on the Patio… see page 17

Page 2

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

Gold P Pendants

Gallery and Nantucket Pearl Company est. 1979

inside G.S. Hill Gallery, est. 2008

G.S. Hill Artwork Coasters

oil on linen

“Sail Away”

48x48

New “Must Have” Pearl Bracelets. Starting at $125

Celebrating 47 years! Follow us on Instagram: @gshillnantucket and @nantucketpearlcompany gshill.com • 508-228-1353 • 40 Straight Wharf, next to Hyline • Open Daily 10am-5pm • gshillnantucket@gmail.com • nantucketpearlcompany.com

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Celebrating 250 Years

This Saturday, Nantucket Island will celebrate Independence Day with all the enthusiasm, fun, and festivity that the town can muster. Main Street will be closed to traffic from early in the morning so preparations can begin.

At 7 am, the annual Nantucket Firecracker 5K Race and Walk starts from Jetties Beach. The scenic course winds through residential areas along Beach Street and the Cliff, ending back at Jetties. Age division prizes include Kids, Youth & Seniors, Runners & Walkers through 3rd place. To register in advance, use the QR code in the display ad in this paper. Race day sign up is at 6 am at Jetties Beach.

The fun continues in the heart of town. Food trucks will be parked on Federal Street between Main and India streets starting at 8:30 am. At 9 am there will be a public reading of the Declaration of Independence at St. Paul’s Church, just a few steps from Main Street at 20 Fair Street. I At 10 am, the Nantucket High School will perform a USA 250th Drumline Parade up Main Street, followed by a Community Band Performance. Shortly after, at 11:30 am, Nantucket’s traditional Water Contest will be held between the Nantucket Fire Department and H. Flint Ranney’s opposing team and their historic pumper. Spectators are asked to keep their waterguns and water balloons at home and just enjoy the show. Take note: if you on either side of Main Street during this popular event, you will get wet!

At Children’s Beach, events begin at 10 am with musician PJ Moody performing patriotic music on the bandstand. Face painting, a magic show, music and movement for kids with Cory Morgan, and family-friendly games fill the morning.

Just after 12 noon, a decorated Bike Parade will form a procession around the lawn at Children’s Beach.

You have just a few hours to dry off, have a bite to eat, pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and head back to Children’s Beach around 5 pm. There children of all ages can compete in potato sack races, 3-legged races, wheelbarrow races, and tug-o-war. After these activities, head over to Jetties Beach and stake out a spot to watch the fireworks at dusk (9 pm).

The fireworks will be shot from a barge anchored off Jetties Beach. Beginning at 6 pm. on July 4, NRTA Wave busses will take passengers to the beach every 15 minutes from Broad Street in front of the Whaling Museum. The busses will return from Jetties Beach after the fireworks up to 10:30 pm.

SUSAN LISTER LO CK E J E W E L E R

July 2-8, 2026

Page 3

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

Summer Lightning: Fireflies

by Dr. Sarah Treanor Bois, PhD

Director of Research & Conservation at the Linda Loring Nature Foundation

photo by Kelly Omand, NCF

This week we’re all about fireworks on-island. We jockey for the best spot and hope the fog that typically coats the Gray Lady takes a break for the festivities. If you look a little closer at the edges of fields and forests this time of year, you might be treated to your own personal light show in nature. We’re talking about fireflies!

A week or so ago I was sitting on my back deck looking out onto a small patch of conservation land past my backyard. I spotted a few quick flashes right at dusk, and I yelled, continued on page 20

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Remembering the Bicentennial on this 250th

July 2-8, 2026

Page 5

by Steve “Tuna” Tornovish

Nantucket's original 1800's Fairgrounds. photo courtesy Nantucket Historical Association

An oasis on the edge of town.

The summer of 1976—what a time to be a kid on Nantucket! The entire island was gearing up to throw a 200th birthday party for the greatest nation in the history of mankind. This was a big deal, I tell ya! Main Street, Federal Street, and much of the downtown area was completely blocked off for the festivities. Planners were planning, costumes were being sewn, and floats were being constructed. Oh yeah, the Bicentennial celebration had Nantucket a-buzzing!

I was a goofy 14-year-old kid that summer. My dark green metallic Schwinn bike, a five-speed complete with a rat-trap holder on the back, got me everywhere.

It was an unimaginable level of freedom. I had a job at Nantucket Pharmacy on Main Street, working for pharmacist and all-around great guy Walter (Wally) Knott. If I wasn’t stocking shelves or mopping floors, my job was to hop on my trusty bike and deliver controlled substances in small brown paper bags to places all over town. No one gave that a second thought back then. It was 50 years ago or, perhaps, a million years ago.

What was island life back then? Well, from the perspective of a kid who would soon be entering his freshman year of high school, that Nantucket summer was amazing! Working on Main Street in the heart of town allowed me access, however limited, to all things happening. The luncheonette located in the front of the pharmacy was operated by Jean and Earl Muir. That generated an endless flow of humanity in and out of the storefront. An occasional mid-morning rainstorm would cause the pharmacy to be packed tighter than a life boat on a sinking ship. Local kids mixed with summer kids...to a point. Summer kids vectored off to the Yacht Club for lunch. Or tennis. Local kids went to work or home to do whatever chores they had been assigned. There was always a line drawn that seemed to become more defined every year after.

The summer nights were about movies. We would line up at the Dreamland Theater for either the 7:30 or 9:30 show and pay our $2.00 for a ticket. The big hits of that summer were Midway, featuring an all-star cast, followed by The Omen, starring Gregory Peck, Lee Remick and some creepy little kid with a 666 tattoo in his hairline. There was a scene in the Omen movie where two large Rottweilers came charging out of a graveyard – quite literally hounds from hell. We all jumped a mile! I recall my buddy Norman and I were riding home that night when a little rat terrier barked at us. We peddled faster than any e-bike that is currently terrorizing the island!

Music in 1976 came mostly from AM radio. The two stations that we could pick up came from Providence RI (WPRO) or from Boston (68 RKO). The summer sounds were “Silly Love Songs” by Wings, “Disco Lady” by Johnnie Taylor and “Let Your Love Flow” by the Bellamay Brothers. In the unlikely event we stayed home at night, we were crowded around the television set watching “Happy Days” reruns. continued on page 18

Dine In & Take Out Bar Open All Day Outdoor Patio & Yard Games Live Entertainment Aprés Beach Grab & Go Breakfast Kid’s Menu Easy Parking!

Order online:

27 Fairgrounds Road • 508.228.4095 nantucketfairgrounds.com

Page 6

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

Today’s Nantucket

Events & Entertainment Events are updated daily at Nantucket.net

THURSDAY, JULY 2 STORY WALK: HERE WE GO DIGGING FOR DINOSAUR BONES Our new story walk is the story of Here We Go Digging For Dinosaur Bones by Susan Lendroth in the Nantucket Atheneum Garden, 1 India Street.

9:45 to 10:30 AM - Dance Party in the Garden Fun songs and singing games in the Atheneum Garden. Bring a blanket to sit on.

In the event of inclement weather, the program will be canceled. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm 10 AM to 12 PM - Children’s Beach Crafting: 4th of July Crafts Get creative with fun, hands-on craft projects for kids of all ages. A morning of imagination with take-home creations. Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way. 10 AM to 1 PM - Holiday Woven Bangle Bracelets: Ages 10+ Celebrate the season with a festive woven bangle workshop featuring patriotic red, white, and blue designs alongside classic natural styles. A fun activity for families and multiple generations to enjoy together. Register at nha.org 10 AM to 4 PM - Maritime Activity Stations Explore Nantucket’s lifesaving history through rotating pop-up interactive stations featuring crafts, games, and artifact encounters.Included with museum admission. Nantucket Shipwreck & Life Saving Museum, 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10 AM to 4 PM - NISDA Open House & Registration Join the staff of the Nantucket Island School of Design & the Arts to make art,

Gail’s Tours, Inc. Simply, the finest tour on Nantucket Island!

VOTED BEST OF NANTUCKET FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS! ★

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Continuing a family tradition of hospitality Unique, in-depth tour of Nantucket 7th generation native

Convenience...effortlessly view Nantucket In-town pick-up • 1-3/4 hour tour Pullovers for photo opportunities Tour van holds up to 14 guests Departures daily 10am, 1pm, & 3pm

Value...in the thrifty Nantucket tradition

★ GAIL NICKERSON JOHNSON ★ your guide to the real Nantucket!

RESERVATIONS & INFO: 508-257-6557

enjoy music & demos, and take a tour of Seaview Farm Art Center, 23 Wauwinet Road. Meet the staff, sign up for painting, textiles, clay, photography, & creative well being, & get messy & make a bowl in the Long Shed! www.nisda.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open Daily Exhibits in 9 premium galleries, including the new 2026 exhibit The Wider World & Scrimshaw, & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum Open Explore updates in the Andrea Doria Gallery, with the story & legacy of the famed 1956 shipwreck, and the new exhibit, From Coast to Coast: The Heroic Stories of Madaket Millie & Marshall the Sea Dog. 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM - Hands-On-History Family programming at the Whaling Museum Discovery Center featuring hands on crafts inspired by The Wider World and Scrimshaw. A new activity each day with a project to create & take home. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad St. nha.org 10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org.

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11 to 11:45 AM - Mini Movers & Shakers Young children + caregivers explore the animal kingdom thru music, movement, storytelling, crafts, & live animal encounters to encourage creativity, learning, and play. Hinchman House Natural Science Museum, 7 Milk Street. MariaMitchell.org Pre-registration is recommended; walk-ins welcome if space is available. continued on page 8

Sail Endeavor

AUNT LEAH’S FUDGE

a Nantucket tradition.

“The Best Fudge in The World”

established 1982

Stop in for a taste

Private Charters Per Person Fares

Nantucket Chocolate Covered Cranberries

Captain James Genthner Slip #1015 • Straight Wharf

508-228-5585

EndeavorSailing.com

As seen in Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle Magazine, Phantom Gourmet and on Chronicle, Channel 5

The Courtyard, 16 Straight Wharf Call 508-228-1017 or Order online www.auntleahs.com

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket EST. 1970 - CELEBRATING 56 YEARS! yesterdaysisland.com • Box 626 Nantucket, MA 02554 • 508-228-9165 Suzanne M. Daub - Publisher & Editor Writers - Dr. Sarah T. Bois, Suzanne Daub, Shawn Roberts, Steve Tornovish Production & Design - Sarah Morneau Website & Databases - J. Taryn Daub Cover Photographs - Suzanne Daub, Nantucket Historical Assoc., Nantucket Comedy Yesterday's Island/Today's Nantucket is published seasonally in print & online year-round by Yesterday's Island, Inc. Views and opinions expressed by our writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or staff. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions or for any and all misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, incorrect or misleading content of advertisements, etc. in this publication or on the associated website. © 2026 Yesterday's Island, Inc.

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

An Inside Scoop on Elin’s Nantucket

by Suzanne Daub

If you’ve everfelt the pull of Nantucket while reading an Elin Hilderbrand novel—the salt air, the fragrance of rose-covered cottages, the excitement of the brewery and The Box—there’s a way to actually experience it. The Elin Hilderbrand Nantucket Blue Book Tour, designed by Heather Thorpe and operated

by Nantucket Island Tours offers fans an opportunity to enjoy Nantucket in real life: a ride across our island with someone who knows Elin not just as an author, but as a sister.

Heather Thorpe grew up on the Main Line in Pennsylvania. Her mother and Elin’s father married when the two girls were quite young, and the two sisters grew very close in their blended family. “She’s my best friend, and I’m a super fan!” Heather said enthusiastically.

The family spent summers on Cape Cod, and when Elin moved to Nantucket Island in her 20s, Heather visited her sister here as often as she could. Two years ago, Heather relocated to Cape Cod year-round, and our island quickly became her second home. That’s when Thorpe’s idea for the tour took shape.

The seed had actually been planted some years earlier. Heather and Elin, along with the Nantucket Hotel, had collaborated for several years on a Bucket List Weekend, an off-season event for Hilderbrand fans. Every year the special weekend included a tour of the island, mostly focused on history, with Heather weaving in an “Elin commentary.” The tours were a popular part of the weekends, and when Heather moved to the Cape, she reached out to Nantucket Island Tours and pitched the concept of offering a regularly scheduled tour designed around Hilderbrand’s favorite spots. With the publication of Elin’s The Blue Book in 2025, the timing was perfect.

To prepare, Heather spent the winter of 2024-2025 re-reading all of Elin’s novels. Since Elin’s fans tend to know her books inside and out, Heather knew she needed a refresher. “It was such fun to revisit them all,” she reminisced.

What sets this tour apart isn’t just the subject matter—it’s the tone. Heather is a former teacher who describes talking as her superpower. “No one was shocked when I told them I was going to be a tour guide,” she laughed. Her tour is scripted, but she welcomes questions and the topics often “veer off in different directions.”

Every group is different, and the conversation shifts accordingly. “I think what fans like is they are getting an inside scoop...[the tour is] not me talking at you... it’s us talking together,” Heather explained. “They are comfortable asking me questions they might not ask any one else... it’s a unique perspective, and they can tell how close we are—how much I love her comes through.”

The Blue Book Tour runs approximately two hours and fifteen minutes, covering several area, not only the heart of town. “Nantucket is not just downtown,” Heather is quick to point out. “Elin writes about the entire island across her novels. She carefully includes all areas and seasons... She tries to give all of Nantucket its due,” said Heather. During the Blue Book Tour, she makes a point of highlighting places that reveal a different side of Elin: the high school, the hospital, the Boys & Girls Club. “It brings attendees to the Elin who really was a resident: takes her out of Author Elin and brings her into Mom Elin, Friend Elin...People love hearing about the woman who built a life here, raised her children here, and wove the whole island into her work because she genuinely loves it,” Heather explained. “I try to impart Elin’s true love of Nantucket: you don’t write 32 novels about a place if you don’t love it in its entirety. When they read her books, people really feel like they’ve been on Nantucket.” This summer, Heather has also woven into her tour island details from The Five-Star Weekend, since the series is due to be released this month.

The tour also notes Elin’s favorite beaches, shops, and restaurants, and includes a visit to Sconset, where guests may get off the bus at the iconic Sankaty Light fence. This time of year, when the ‘Sconset roses are in bloom, the reaction from guests is palpable. But perhaps no stop on the tour lands quite like The Box, where the tour ends with each tourgoer enjoying a glass of prosecco served in a souvenir glass. Elin mentions The Box in nearly every novel, sometimes as a full scene and sometimes just a passing reference. For Elin fans, finally standing in front of it feels like stepping out of the pages.

Even after leading the tour many times, there are two moments that never continued on page 23

July 2-8, 2026

Page 7

NANTUCKET WALKING TOURS

Led by the Three-Time Runner-up in the Nantucket Quiz Bowl Providing Quality Tours Since 1998

NANTUCKET GHOST WALK The Most Powerful Walking Tour Ever on Nantucket

Town Route: 8pm on July 3, 4, 5, 6 Cemetery Route: 8pm on July 2, 7, 8, 9

FABULOUS MANSIONS OF THE CLIFF AND BRANT POINT 8:30am on July 3, 6, 8

HISTORIC MANSIONS OF MAIN ST. & AMERICA’S OLDEST WINDMILL 8:30am on July 4, 7, 9 All walks meet 10 minutes early in front of the bank steps at the top of Main Street and Centre Street.

See the “Events and Entertainment” section in this paper for more info. Private tours also available. whjamieson@gmail.com

High Speed Ferry Through September 1, 2026 Depart Nantucket

Arrive Hyannis

Depart Hyannis

Arrive Nantucket

7:40am

8:40am

6:10am

7:10am

9:55am

10:55am

8:30am

9:30am

11:10am

12:10pm

9:30am

10:30am

12:50pm

1:50pm

11:20am

12:20pm

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4:10pm

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2:25pm

3:25pm

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4:15pm

5:15pm

7:05pm

8:05pm

5:40pm

6:40pm

*9:20pm

10:20pm

*8:00pm

9:00pm

*Changes to 8:40pm and 10pm on Fridays

Reservations strongly recommended

Straight Wharf | Nantucket 508.228.3949 Visit us online for schedules, travel alerts & specials

hylinecruises.com

Page 8

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Events & Entertainment Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 6

11 AM to 4 PM - Hands-On-History at the Old Jail Learn about the Old Jail & some of its inhabitants; make a beaded keychain. This drop-in program is offered during the site’s open hours. Groups of 10 or more require advanced notification: tours@nha.org. Old Jail, 15R Vestal Street. NHA.org 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

11:45 AM - The Westender Tour with Island Tours Visit historic sites in Town and the Village of Madaket. Also enjoy stops at Bartlett’s Ocean View Farm & at Cisco Brewers where you can enjoy libations & food vendors. The experience lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-228-0334.

12 to 3 PM - Live Music by Jimmy Denny at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 2 to 3 PM - Kids’ Metal Detecting 101 Young explorers learn the basics of treasure hunting while searching Nantucket’s shores for hidden discoveries. Registration required: MariaMitchell.org 2 to 4 PM - Holiday Woven Bangle Bracelets for Ages 10+: Session 2 Celebrate the season with a festive woven bangle workshop featuring red, white, and blue designs alongside classic natural styles. Create as many bangles as time allows, making it a fun activity for multiple generations. Register at nha.org 3 to 5 PM - Island Tours Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour From the pages of Elin’s “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, this tour is led by Elin’s sister, Heather Thorpe, & highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants, & beaches, & showcases island spots prominent in her novels. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-2280334.

5 to 7 PM - French Burgundy Tasting at Hostetler Gallery Hostetler Gallery invites you to enjoy a wine tasting with Burgundy expert Nick Setterberg paired with stunning works of art in the Hostetler Gallery, 42 Centre Street...celebrating 100 years of David Hostetler’s art.

5 to 7 PM - Opening Art Reception Gather for a reception to celebrate From Moors to Moorings: the newest Nantucket Artists Association exhibit in their gallery at 8 Federal Street. NantucketArts.org 5 to 7 PM - Evening Art with Nikoline Bohr Create lighthouse & animal inspired paintings with guidance from artist Nikoline Bohr. All materials provided. Registration required: MariaMitchell.org 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

6 to 7:30 PM - 250 Great American Things Book Talk & Signing At Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main Street.

July 2-8, 2026

6 to 9 PM - Kids’ Night Out: Enjoy Your Evening While Your Kids Enjoy Theirs Safe, supervised evening program ages 4–12 with games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, & movies while parents enjoy a night out. In-town shuttle for pickup & drop-off available. Register: KidsNightOutNantucket.com 6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Cemetery Route A 1-1/3 mi, 90 min eerie stroll featuring Old North Burial Ground, Oldest House, & 2 haunted hotels. Led by original guide. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Cash Only. No reservations necessary, Meet at Main & Centre by the bank steps 15 min early. whjamieson@gmail.com 8:30 to 9:45 PM - Nighttime Marine Ecology Field Trip Join aquarium staff to learn about marine creatures that come out to feed at night, in the shallow harbor waters. Designed for adults & children ages 10+.

Pre-registration is required: mariamitchell.org 10 PM to Midnight - Live Music by Local Notes Live music & luscious libations at The Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street.

FRIDAY, JULY 3 7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided. Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 8:20 AM - Fabulous Mansions of the Cliff & Brant Point You’ll be over the moon after going on a 3-mi., 75-min., non-stop exercise walk with historic commentary past fabulous mansions of The Cliff & Brant Point.

Meet at Centre & Main by bank steps for 8:30 tour. Adults $25, Seniors $20, Teens $15, $10 ages 6-12 Cash Only. No reservations. whjamieson@gmail.com 774325-8972 8:30 to 10 AM - Marine Ecology Field Trip for Ages 8+ Help collect, identify, & release marine lifeMeets at Hither Creek Beach Access near 22 Massachusetts Avenue. Pre-registration required at mariamitchell.org 9 to 9:45 AM - Feeding Frenzy at Maria Mitchell Assn. Aquarium Join MMA staff as they feed the hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens.

Fun for all ages. Registration required at MariaMitchell.org.

9 to 9:45 AM - Free Mini-Mariners at the Museum Mini-Mariners invites children + caregivers to explore Nantucket’s maritime heritage through hands-on activities & nautical themed fun. Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum, 158 Polpis Road. EganMaritime.org 9 to 9:45 AM - Ravenous Reptiles with MMA for Ages 4+ A tour + animal feeding at the Natural Science Museum: learn about unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, & more while interacting with educational animals. Pre-registration is recommended at MariaMitchell.org 9 to 10:30 AM - Maria Mitchell Assn. Kids’ Bird Watching Explore Nantucket’s coastal habitats using observation, sound, & identification skills. Led by MMA educators. Registration required: MariaMitchell.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm. continued on page 10

Barrett’s Island

TOURS

Experienced Guides for Fully Narrated 1-1/2 Hour Historic Tours with the oldest tour company on Nantucket Daily Departures at 10:30am, 1:30pm, & 3:30pm From 25 Federal Street (across from Visitor Services)

Private Tours & Charters Available

Book online: BarrettsTours.com 508-228-0174

Bicycle Rentals e-Bike Rentals Bronco & Jeep Rentals, too!

Only a 2 minute walk from Steamboat Wharf or Downtown 6 South Beach Street • Next to Affordable Rentals info@cookscyclesnantucket.com www.cookscyclesnantucket.com

508-228-0800

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

A 4th Full of Memories

July 2-8, 2026

Page 9

by Shawn Roberts

I never needed an alarm clock on the Fourth of July. I was always awake before anyone had to tell me it was time: the excitement had a way of beating the sunrise. Before the coffee was brewed or breakfast was finished, I was already figuring out which friends to call. One by one we’d meet on our bikes, towels draped over our handlebars, pockets full of nothing, and an entire island ahead of us.

As a kid, I believed there were only two ways to become famous: playing for continued on page 37

Tail-Wagging Treasures & Pet Services with Love

Sports Fishing on the “Herbert T” Slip 14, Straight Wharf, Nantucket, Ma. Day Time: 508-228-6655 Evenings: 508-257-4176 Premium Pet Foods, Tantalizing Treats, Fun Toys, Stylish Collars & Leashes, Gifts for Pet Lovers plus A Self-Serve Dog Wash Station 119 Pleasant St • 508-228-3731

nantucketpetstore.com

We Provide: • An experienced certified captain • All tackle, equipment and bait • Lessons, if needed • Your catch, cleaned, packaged and ready to take home.

Four Trips Daily - 7am, 10am, 1pm and 4pm.

Fully Licensed - Fully Insured $150 per person (2 person minimum) FishNantucket.net Private Charters Available $650 - up to 6 persons

Page 10

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Events & Entertainment Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 8

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm 10 AM to 4 PM - Maritime Activity Stations Explore Nantucket’s lifesaving history through rotating pop-up interactive stations featuring crafts, games, and artifact encounters.Included with museum admission. Nantucket Shipwreck & Life Saving Museum, 158 Polpis Road.

10 AM to 4 PM - Free Hands-On Lifesaving: Breeches Buoy & Heaving Stick Drop by for an interactive look at historic lifesaving methods: try your hand at using lifesaving equipment to rescue our mascot, Marshall. On the lawn at the Nantucket Shipwreck & Life Saving Museum, 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10 AM to 4 PM - NISDA Open House & Registration Join the staff of the Nantucket Island School of Design & the Arts to make art, enjoy music & demos, and take a tour of Seaview Farm Art Center, 23 Wauwinet Road. Meet the staff, sign up for painting, textiles, clay, photography, & creative well being, & get messy & make a bowl in the Long Shed! www.nisda.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open Daily Exhibits in 9 premium galleries, including the new 2026 exhibit The Wider World & Scrimshaw, & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum Open Explore updates in the Andrea Doria Gallery, with the story & legacy of the famed 1956 shipwreck, and the new exhibit, From Coast to Coast: The Heroic Stories of Madaket Millie & Marshall the Sea Dog. 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM - Hands-On-History Family programming at the Whaling Museum Discovery Center featuring hands on crafts inspired by The Wider World and Scrimshaw. A new activity each day with a project to create & take home. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad St. nha.org 10:30 to 11:30 AM - Book Signing with Nancy Thayer and Kyleigh Leddy Meet authors Nancy Thayer who wrote Summer Light on Nantucket and many other novels as she signs books with Kyleigh Leddy, author of Worse than Strangers. Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main Street.

10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org.

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11 AM to 4 PM - Hands-On-History at the Oldest House Learn about the Jethro Coffin House & the generations of Nantucketers who lived there; create your own cup-and-ball game to play. This drop-in program is offered during the site’s open hours. Groups of 10 or more require advanced notification: tours@nha.org. Oldest House, 16 Sunset Hill. nha.org 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

12 to 3 PM - Live Music by Jimmy Denny at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 4 to 6 PM - Wine Tasting at Mor Wine Sip on some of our favorite wines while you browse Commonwealth’s fabulous resale collection. 16 Federal Street. Morwine.com 4 to 6 PM - Free Wines & Rinds at Bartlett’s Head out to Bartlett’s Farm for a tasting of wines and cheeses. 33 Bartlett Farm Road. 508-228-9403 ~BartlettsFarm.com 4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Chris Ruediger at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

5:30 to 7:30 PM - Art Opening at Gallery at Four India Gather with art lovers and gallery experts to view the dynamic, vibrant artworks

July 2-8, 2026

of Tina Cobelle-Sturges and Clara Berta, upstairs in The Gallery at Four India.

This exhibition continues through July 15.

6 to 8 PM - Teen Game Night at the Nantucket Atheneum A selection of Nintendo Switch games like Just Dance and Mario Party & more!

Games rotate & are first-come, first-served. 1 India St. NantucketAtheneum.org 6 to 9 PM - Kids’ Night Out: Enjoy Your Evening While Your Kids Enjoy Theirs Safe, supervised evening program ages 4–12 with games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, & movies while parents enjoy a night out. In-town shuttle for pickup & drop-off available. Register: KidsNightOutNantucket.com 6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 7:30 to 10 PM - Foggy Roots Perform Live at The Fairgrounds Celebrate 250 island style with Foggy Roots at The Fairgrounds, 27 Fairgrounds Rd. 8 PM - Dreamland Comedy: T.J. Miller Comedian T.J. Miller brings his unpredictable, high energy stand up to The Dreamland for one night only. Tickets at NantucketDreamland.org 8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route Gather at 7:50 pm at the corner of Centre and Main Top of Main St in front of bank steps. This is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket, led by the original guide. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Cash Only.

No Reservations necessary. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972 8 to 10 PM - Live Music by Sean Lee Live music & luscious libations at The Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street.

10 PM - Karaoke at The Rose & Crown Join the fun and sing along at the Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street. 508-2282595 TheRoseAndCrown.com

SATURDAY, JULY 4 6 AM - Nantucket Firecracker 5K Run & Walk Gather at Jetties Beach for this annual 5k Run & Walk. Use QR code in display ad to register in advance or sign up on Race Day (July 4th) at Jetties. Race begins at 7am from Jetties Beach, Bathing Beach Road.

7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided. Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 8:30 AM - Historic Mansions of Main Street and America’s Oldest Windmill A 1.8 mi, 45 min. exercise walk with historic commentary past whaling era mansions & back downtown. Cash only; $25; $20 seniors (65+) ; $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Meet at Main & Centre by the bank steps 10 min early.

8:30 to 10 AM - Pick Your Own Veggies at Bartlett’s Step aboard the Bartlett’s hay wagon for a family-friendly trip to the heart of produce fields, where you can witness first-hand what’s fresh & in-season. There are stops along the way ,& Bartlett’s provides a bag to fill up with farm-fresh vegetables to take home. Registration required: BartlettsFarm.com 9 AM - Independence Day Celebration - Reading of the Declaration of Independence Reading of the Declaration of Independence at St. Paul’s Church, 20 Fair Street. stpaulschurchnantucket.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 AM - USA 250th Nantucket High School Drumline Parade On Main Street, Nantucket. Town of Nantucket Culture & Tourism event 10 AM to 12:30 PM - Family Fun for the 4th at Children’s Beach Musician PJ Moody performs live, Matt Fee Tea Toss, Cornhole Tournament, Face Painting, a magic show, and more. Ending with Decorated Bike Parade just after 12 noon. Town of Nantucket Culture & Tourism event 10:45 AM - USA 250th Nantucket High School Drumline Parade On Main Street, Nantucket. Town of Nantucket Culture & Tourism event 11:30 AM - Independence Day Water Competition on Main Street The Main Street water competition between Town of Nantucket’s Fire Department is back, thanks to a donation of water from private companies! Spectators are asked to NOT bring water balloons & water guns: you’ll get wet enough without them. Town of Nantucket Culture & Tourism event 10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org. continued on page 11

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11 to 12 AM - Russian Club for Kids and Parents Children of all ages can enjoy books, games, cartoons, songs, dancing, & activities in Russian. Families can connect & learn together! Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

12 to 3 PM - Live Music by Chris Ruediger at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 2 to 3 PM - Greenhouse Tours at Bartlett’s Farm Join your farmers for a walking tour to learn how Bartlett’s grow fresh, local produce year-round. This isn’t just a walk in the dirt it’s an exploration of the technology and tradition that feeds our community. Register at BartlettsFarm.com 4 to 7 PM - Live Music by The Dave Matthews Tribute Band at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 5 PM - Family Games for the 4th Three-legged race, Wheelbarrow Race, Potato Sack Races, and a Tug-o-War at Children’s Beach. Town of Nantucket Culture & Tourism event 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

6 to 9 PM - Kids’ Night Out: Enjoy Your Evening While Your Kids Enjoy Theirs Safe, supervised evening program ages 4–12 with games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, & movies while parents enjoy a night out. In-town shuttle for pickup & drop-off available. Register: KidsNightOutNantucket.com 6 PM - Red, White & Blue: A Celebration of America at 250 Celebrate the Fourth of July at The Dreamland with live blues music, barbecue, dancing, & views of Nantucket’s summer fireworks. The Jamie McLean Band and a festive evening of food, music. Tickets at NantucketDreamland.org 6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 8 to 10 PM - Live Music by Sean Lee Live music & luscious libations at The Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street.

9 PM - Fireworks for the Fourth Arrive at Jetties Beach early for this fun evening: consider bringing a picnic and set up around 5 or 6 pm; remember it can get chilly as the sun goes down. The show lasts approximately 25-27 minutes and is shot from a barge just offshore.

Town of Nantucket Culture & Tourism event 10 PM - Karaoke at The Rose & Crown Join the fun and sing along at the Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street. 508-2282595 TheRoseAndCrown.com

SUNDAY, JULY 5 7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided. Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 7:45 to 10 AM - Nantucket Bird Walk with Ginger Andrews Explore Nantucket’s diverse bird habitats. Enjoy guide with sharp wit & hear island history, along with sightings of both local and migratory birds. For ages 8+, with an adult. Binoculars available. Pre-registration required: MariaMitchell.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

July 2-8, 2026

Page 11

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

12 to 3 PM - Live Music by Porch Light at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 3 to 5 PM - Island Tours Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour From the pages of Elin’s “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, this tour is led by Elin’s sister, Heather Thorpe, & highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants, & beaches, & showcases island spots prominent in her novels. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-2280334.

3 to 6 PM - Live Music by Jeff Tuohy at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

6 PM - Children’s Beach Bandstand Free Concert: Earth Got The Blues Live concert at Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way. Bring a blanket to sit on.

6 to 8 PM - Live Music by Julia Newman Live music & luscious libations at The Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street.

6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route Gather at 7:50 pm at the corner of Centre and Main Top of Main St in front of bank steps. This is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket, led by the original guide. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Cash Only.

No Reservations necessary. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972

MONDAY, JULY 6 NANTUCKET DANCE FESTIVAL: JULY 6 TO 12, 2026 Dance Classes, Workshops, Events for Children, Professional Performance plus Swing Dance & Country Line Dance events, & more! nantucketdancefestival.org 7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided. Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 8:20 AM - Fabulous Mansions of the Cliff & Brant Point You’ll be over the moon after going on a 3-mi., 75-min., non-stop exercise walk with historic commentary past fabulous mansions of The Cliff & Brant Point.

Meet at Centre & Main by bank steps for 8:30 tour. Adults $25, Seniors $20, Teens $15, $10 ages 6-12 Cash Only. No reservations. whjamieson@gmail.com 774325-8972 8:30 to 10 AM - Marine Ecology Field Trip for Ages 8+ Help collect, identify, & release marine lifeMeets at Hither Creek Beach Access near 22 Massachusetts Avenue. Pre-registration required at mariamitchell.org 9 to 9:45 AM - Feeding Frenzy at Maria Mitchell Assn. Aquarium Join MMA staff as they feed the hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens.

Fun for all ages. Registration required at MariaMitchell.org.

9 to 9:45 AM - Ravenous Reptiles with MMA for Ages 4+ A tour + animal feeding at the Natural Science Museum: learn about unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, & more while interacting with educational animals. Pre-registration is recommended at MariaMitchell.org 9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery Learn about shellfish production, fishery enhancement, oyster restoration, water quality work, eelgrass, & more at the Town’s Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery. Preregistration required: Nantucket-MA.gov/691/Brant-Point-Shellfish-Hatchery

continued on page 13

Page 12

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

20 Years of Laughter

Nantucket's year-round women's consignment boutique

photo courtesy Nantucket Comedy Festival

167 7 Orange O S Street • 508 08 8.680.1159 t therainbowfleetnantuc cket.com Follow w us on instagram @th herainbowfleet Ope en Monday - Saturdayy 10am-5pm

The Nantucket Comedy Festival returns July 8 through July 11 for a milestone 20th Anniversary celebration featuring nationally recognized comedians, signature festival traditions, and unforgettable moments that have kept audiences laughing for two decades.

Festivities begin this Wednesday, July 8, with the free ACK vs. MVY Kids Comedy SmACKdown. As part of the festival’s Stand Up & Learn™ program, student comedians from Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard will take to the Dreamland Theater stage to perform original stand-up routines, after working alongside professional comedians and mentors. This year marks an exciting first as students from Martha’s Vineyard join Nantucket’s young comics for a friendly island-vsisland showcase of talent, creativity, and humor. continued on page 24

photo by Ron Lynch

1 Orange St

508-228-0272

Blue Beetle 12 Main Street

clothing, jewelry & accessories open daily

Nantuc ketEstateJe welr y.com .

508 228 3227 BlueBeetleNantucket.com

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Events & Entertainment Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 10

10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm 10 to 11:30 AM - En Plein Air with Nikoline Bohr Capture the beauty of Nantucket in this outdoor painting & drawing class led by Nikoline Bohr. Sketch beaches, gardens, & historic scenes perfect for beginners and experienced artists. Pre-registration required at MariaMitchell.org 10 AM to 10:45 PM - Monday with Magic at Children’s Beach Join magician, musician, and artist Mark Carapezza at Children’s Beach this summer, every Monday for free, family-friendly entertainment and hands-on activities.

Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way. 10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open Daily Exhibits in 9 premium galleries, including the new 2026 exhibit The Wider World & Scrimshaw, & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum Open Explore updates in the Andrea Doria Gallery, with the story & legacy of the famed 1956 shipwreck, and the new exhibit, From Coast to Coast: The Heroic Stories of Madaket Millie & Marshall the Sea Dog. 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM - Hands-On-History Family programming at the Whaling Museum Discovery Center featuring hands on crafts inspired by The Wider World and Scrimshaw. A new activity each day with a project to create & take home. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad St. nha.org 10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org.

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

1 to 4 PM - Drop-In Craft Gam with No Instruction Bring any project you are working on to this open session & work with other creative people to share knowledge. Basic tools available; no instruction provided.

1800 House, 4 Mill St. nha.org Nantucket Historical Assn. Heritage Craft Program 2 to 3:30 PM - Outdoor Art with Nikoline Bohr An outdoor art program led by Nikoline Bohr focusing on close up drawing, nature journaling, and observational art. Registration required at MariaMitchell.org 4 to 6 PM - Mahjong Mondays for All Skill Levels Support the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club through friendly games, community connection, & philanthropy. Beginner instruction available. Mahjong, wine, & light snacks. $20. Register at NantucketBoysandGirlsClub.org 4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Jeff Tuohy at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

5:30 to 6:30 PM - Artists Assn. Art Talk by Julie Gifford Meet this talented artist living and working at the Visual Arts Center. Julie Gifford will lead an engaging conversation about their artwork, creative process, influences, and inspiration. AAN’s Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery, 8 Federal St. 5:30 to 6:30 PM - Geschke Lecture: Danielle Allen Danielle Allen will discuss her new book Radical Duke and the remarkable story of an aristocrat whose ideas helped transform Britain during the American Revolution. Attendees receive a copy of the book. Tickets at NantucketAtheneum.org

July 2-8, 2026

Page 13

6 to 9 PM - Harborview Concert Series presents: Foggy Roots Foggy Roots will play reggae hits & crowd favorites across genres. Cash bar, lite snacks, & a family-friendly vibe (kids 12 and under get in free). Tickets are limited, so buy yours now at NantucketDreamland.org 6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route Gather at 7:50 pm at the corner of Centre and Main Top of Main St in front of bank steps. This is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket, led by the original guide. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Cash Only.

No Reservations necessary. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972 9 to 10 PM - Stargazing at Loines Observatory for All Ages Guided views of the night sky through historic and modern telescopes. Explore the Moon, planets, & galaxies while learning from professional astronomers. $25 ($15 for youth). Loines Observatory, 59 Milk Street. MariaMitchell.org

TUESDAY, JULY 7 NANTUCKET DANCE FESTIVAL: JULY 6 TO 12, 2026 Dance Classes, Workshops, Events for Children, Professional Performance plus Swing Dance & Country Line Dance events, & more! nantucketdancefestival.org 7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided. Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 8:20 AM - Historic Mansions of Main Street and America’s Oldest Windmill A 1.8 mi, 45 min. exercise walk with historic commentary past whaling era mansions & back downtown. Cash only; $25; $20 seniors (65+) ; $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Meet at Main & Centre by the bank steps 10 min early. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972 8:30 to 10 AM - Free Guided Nature Walk Join Linda Loring Nature Foundation for a guided nature walk along ‘Sconset Trust’s Ruddick Commons trails to learn about the unique flora and fauna found in Nantucket’s habitats. llnf.org 8:30 to 10 AM - Pick Your Own Veggies at Bartlett’s Step aboard the Bartlett’s hay wagon for a family-friendly trip to the heart of produce fields, where you can witness first-hand what’s fresh & in-season. There are stops along the way ,& Bartlett’s provides a bag to fill up with farm-fresh vegetables to take home. Registration required: BartlettsFarm.com 9 to 9:45 AM - Feeding Frenzy at Maria Mitchell Assn. Aquarium Join MMA staff as they feed the hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens.

Fun for all ages. Registration required at MariaMitchell.org.

9 to 9:45 AM - Ravenous Reptiles with MMA for Ages 4+ A tour + animal feeding at the Natural Science Museum: learn about unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, & more while interacting with educational animals. Pre-registration is recommended at MariaMitchell.org 9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery Learn about shellfish production, fishery enhancement, oyster restoration, water quality work, eelgrass, & more at the Town’s Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery. Preregistration required: Nantucket-MA.gov/691/Brant-Point-Shellfish-Hatchery 9:15 to 10 AM - Marine Storytime - Ages 3+ A marine-themed story, a live animal intro, & a related activity at the MMA Aquarium, 32 Washington St. Pre-registration encouraged: MariaMitchell.org Walk-ins welcome if space allows.

9:30 to 10:30 AM - Kids’ Metal Detecting 101 A hands-on beachside metal detecting adventure for kids. Young explorers learn the basics of treasure hunting while searching Nantucket’s shores for hidden discoveries. Registration required: MariaMitchell.org Again at 2pm 9:45 to 10:30 AM - Free Music in the Morning Join local musician Cory Morgan in the Nantucket Atheneum Garden for rhythm, instruments, and musical games. Perfect for toddlers through early elementary age. Bring a blanket to sit on, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 to 11:30 AM - Dance Festival - Tiny Toes for ages 3-6 A playful dance program for young children featuring a ballet lesson, animal inspired movement, crafts, and treats. Two time slots: 10 AM or 10:45 AM — Registration required at NantucketDanceFestival.org continued on page 14

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Events & Entertainment Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 13

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm 10 AM to 12 PM - Free Tie-Dye at Children’s Beach T-shirts & all materials are included. Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way. 10 AM to 4 PM - Maritime Activity Stations Explore Nantucket’s lifesaving history: rotating pop-up interactive stations featuring crafts, games, & artifact encounters. Included with museum admission.

Nantucket Shipwreck & Life Saving Museum, 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open Daily Exhibits in 9 premium galleries, including the new 2026 exhibit The Wider World & Scrimshaw, & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum Open Explore updates in the Andrea Doria Gallery, with the story & legacy of the famed 1956 shipwreck, and the new exhibit, From Coast to Coast: The Heroic Stories of Madaket Millie & Marshall the Sea Dog. 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM - Hands-On-History Family programming at the Whaling Museum Discovery Center featuring hands on crafts inspired by The Wider World and Scrimshaw. A new activity each day with a project to create & take home. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad St. nha.org 10:30 to 11:15 AM - Family Connections Tour in the Whaling Museum Experience featured exhibit The Wider World and Scrimshaw in a guided intergenerational tour. Guides bring topics to life with visual & tactile elements, to share the influence of Nantucket whalers, whale ecology, the art of scrimshaw, souvenirs, & more. Incl. with museum admission: registration strongly recommended at nha.org.

10:30 to 11:30 AM - Book Signing with Christian John Wikane Meet the author of A Night at the Disco, a celebration of dance music from 1970– 79, with an impressive collection of photos. Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main St. 10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org.

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

11:45 AM - The Westender Tour with Island Tours Visit historic sites in Town and the Village of Madaket. Also enjoy stops at Bartlett’s Ocean View Farm & at Cisco Brewers where you can enjoy libations & food vendors. The experience lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-228-0334.

2 to 2:30 PM - Tony Tuesdays at Shipwreck & Life Saving Museum An artifact spotlight & behind-the-scenes show-and-tell with Collections Manager Tony Dumitru; incl. with museum admission. 158 Polpis Rd. eganmaritime.org 2 to 3 PM - Adult Metal Detecting A hands-on beach adventure: learn basics of metal detecting on Nantucket’s shores in a fun, relaxed setting. Register at MariaMitchell.org 4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Jeff Tuohy at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

6 to 7 PM - Dance Festival - Up Close with the Artists An intimate performance exploring the collaboration between dance and live music, featuring multiple styles including ballet, tap, swing, Irish step, Jookin, and modern. Created with musicians from the Rossini Club, offering insight into rhythm and artistic expression. NantucketDanceFestival.org

July 2-8, 2026

6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

6:30 to 8:30 PM - Free Open Arts Nights!

Bring your own creative projects or just enjoy the show in the acoustically stellar Great Hall of the Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise with Shanty Singers Sunset Cruise/Live Music with the Shanty Singers. Come enjoy a Nantucket Sunset Cruise while you listen to fun old time shanty tunes. Sing along or listen with a smile as you enjoy your favorite beverage with family and friends. Straight Wharf Slip #1011 Book at 508-228-7037 or nantucketbywater.com 7 to 9 PM - Dance Festival - Cocktail Reception Following Up Close with the Artists Cocktail and hors d’oeuvres overlooking the harbor, with some music and ballroom dancing to accompany the view. Tickets at NantucketDanceFestival.org 8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Cemetery Route A 1-1/3 mi, 90 min eerie stroll featuring Old North Burial Ground, Oldest House, & 2 haunted hotels. Led by original guide. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Cash Only. No reservations necessary, Meet at Main & Centre by the bank steps 15 min early. whjamieson@gmail.com 8 to 9 PM - Night at the Museum - Ages 5+ with Adult Join MMA naturalists & learn secrets of the natural world & natural history facts, see museum specimens up close, experience our specimen touch table, see live specimen prep, & do arts & crafts activities. Register at MariaMitchell.org 8:30 to 9:30 PM - Night at the Aquarium for Ages 5+ with Adult Join MMA aquarists for an after-hours adventure. Discover how sea creatures adapt to the night with cool traits like night vision & half-brain sleep. Meet animal ambassadors and explore the aquarium after dark. Register at MariaMitchell.org 9 to 10 PM - Stargazing at Loines Observatory for All Ages Guided views of the night sky through historic and modern telescopes. Explore the Moon, planets, & galaxies while learning from professional astronomers. $25 ($15 for youth). Loines Observatory, 59 Milk Street. MariaMitchell.org 9:30 PM - Late Night Trivia at The Rose & Crown Enjoy fun and libations at The Rose & Crown, 23 South Water Street.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8 NANTUCKET DANCE FESTIVAL: JULY 6 TO 12, 2026 Dance Classes, Workshops, Events for Children, Professional Performance plus Swing Dance & Country Line Dance events, & more! nantucketdancefestival.org

NANTUCKET COMEDY FESTIVAL: JULY 8 TO 11, 2026 Celebrating 20 years of summer laughter with 4 days of fun & signature events for all ages. Tickets at nantucketcomedy.com 7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided. Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 7:45 to 10:30 AM - Free Birding Field Trip Explore Nantucket’s birding hotspots and observe birds in their natural habitats.

Binoculars, spotting scope, & field guides are available to borrow. llnf.org 8:20 AM - Fabulous Mansions of the Cliff & Brant Point You’ll be over the moon after going on a 3-mi., 75-min., non-stop exercise walk with historic commentary past fabulous mansions of The Cliff & Brant Point.

Meet at Centre & Main by bank steps for 8:30 tour. Adults $25, Seniors $20, Teens $15, $10 ages 6-12 Cash Only. No reservations. whjamieson@gmail.com 774325-8972 8:30 to 10 AM - Marine Ecology Field Trip for Ages 8+ Help collect, identify, & release marine lifeMeets at Hither Creek Beach Access near 22 Massachusetts Avenue. Pre-registration required at mariamitchell.org 9 to 9:45 AM - Feeding Frenzy at Maria Mitchell Assn. Aquarium Join MMA staff as they feed the hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens.

Fun for all ages. Registration required at MariaMitchell.org.

9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery Learn about shellfish production, fishery enhancement, oyster restoration, water quality work, eelgrass, & more at the Town’s Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery. Preregistration required: Nantucket-MA.gov/691/Brant-Point-Shellfish-Hatchery 9 AM to 4 PM - Dance Festival - Open Classes All ages, all levels dance classes led by Dance Festival artists offer a chance to explore tap, ballet, modern, Jookin, swing, and more. Includes a performance workshop for youth interested in joining the benefit show. NantucketDanceFestival.org 9:30 to 10:30 AM - Adult Metal Detecting Learn basics of metal detecting & uncover hidden treasures on Nantucket’s shores in a fun, relaxed setting. Register at MariaMitchell.org continued on page 15

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

9:30 to 10:30 AM - Free Children’s Yoga with Phoebe Strobino This fun and free program encourages movement and mindfulness in a relaxed outdoor setting. Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way. 9:30 AM to 12 PM - Keeper For A Day for Ages 10 to 15 Help care for reptiles, amphibians, fish, & more. Learn feeding, cleaning, & habitat care while working alongside naturalists. Register: MariaMitchell.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm 10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open Daily Exhibits in 9 premium galleries, including the new 2026 exhibit The Wider World & Scrimshaw, & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum Open Explore updates in the Andrea Doria Gallery, with the story & legacy of the famed 1956 shipwreck, and the new exhibit, From Coast to Coast: The Heroic Stories of Madaket Millie & Marshall the Sea Dog. 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM - Hands-On-History Family programming at the Whaling Museum Discovery Center featuring hands on crafts inspired by The Wider World and Scrimshaw. A new activity each day with a project to create & take home. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad St. nha.org 10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org.

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11 AM to 12 PM - Book Signing with Elin Hilderbrand No pre-purchase is required for Elin’s signings. First 100 people in line get a ticket: start lining up at 10am Only books purchased at Mitchell’s & Bookworks can be autographed. Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main St. MitchellsBookCorner.com 11 AM to 1 PM - Watercolor Workshop with Ellie Gottwald Reserve your spot to take a joyful watercolor workshop inspired by Nantucket’s gardens and island life with Nantucket artist Ellie Gottwald in the Susan Lister Locke Gallery, along the waterfront on Easy Street. Call 508-228-2132.

11 AM to 4 PM - Hands-On-History at Greater Light Drop in & learn about the Monaghan sisters & their artists retreat; color a painting by Gertrude Monaghan with watercolor. Groups more require advanced notification tours@nha.org. Greater Light, 8 Howard Street. NHA.org 11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

11:45 AM - The Westender Tour with Island Tours Visit historic sites in Town and the Village of Madaket. Also enjoy stops at Bartlett’s Ocean View Farm & at Cisco Brewers where you can enjoy libations & food vendors. The experience lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-228-0334.

2 to 3 PM - Greenhouse Tours at Bartlett’s Farm Join your farmers for a walking tour to learn how Bartlett’s grow fresh, local produce year-round. This isn’t just a walk in the dirt it’s an exploration of the technology and tradition that feeds our community. Register at BartlettsFarm.com 3 to 4 PM - Children’s Chess Club for Grades 2 to 6 Learn basics or challenge friends to a game. Bring your board or use one of ours.

No registration required. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India St. NantucketAtheneum.org 3 to 5 PM - Island Tours Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour From the pages of Elin’s “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, this tour is led by Elin’s sister, Heather Thorpe, & highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants, & beaches, & showcases island spots prominent in her novels. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-2280334.

3:15 PM - Kids Comedy SmACKdown: Nantucket Comedy Festival As part of the Nantucket Comedy Festival’s Stand Up & Learn program, student comedians from Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard will take the stage to perform original stand-up routines after working with professional comedians and com-

July 2-8, 2026

Page 15

edy mentors. Free in The Dreamland. A Nantucket Comedy Festival Event 4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Mesha Steele and the Riddim AllStars at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 4 to 7 PM - Dance Festival - Country Line Dancing Stop by Cisco Brewers for a drink, enjoy live music and join in our Country Line Dancing evening, Open to All Cisco Brewery, 5 Bartlett Farm Road. 508-325-5929 NantucketDanceFestival.org 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

5:30 to 8:30 PM - Free Game Night (with Mag-ACK the Gathering) for Ages 13+ A night of board games, card games, and Mag-ACK The Gathering. All levels welcome. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 6 to 9 PM - Kids’ Night Out: Enjoy Your Evening While Your Kids Enjoy Theirs Safe, supervised evening program ages 4–12 with games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, & movies while parents enjoy a night out. In-town shuttle for pickup & drop-off available. Register: KidsNightOutNantucket.com 6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

6:30 to 8:30 PM - Free Atheneum Knitting Group for All Skill Levels Share projects, learn new techniques, and get help in a welcoming setting. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 7 to 9 PM - Cultural Arts Lecture Series and Silo Gallery Explore connections between arts, sciences, humanities, & environment through inspiring presentations and conversations. The series highlights creativity as a catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and social change. at NISDA Seaview Farm 23 Wauwinet Road Suggested Donation: $10.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Cemetery Route A 1-1/3 mi, 90 min eerie stroll featuring Old North Burial Ground, Oldest House, & 2 haunted hotels. Led by original guide. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Cash Only. No reservations necessary, Meet at Main & Centre by the bank steps 15 min early. whjamieson@gmail.com

THURSDAY, JULY 9 NANTUCKET DANCE FESTIVAL: JULY 6 TO 12, 2026 Dance Classes, Workshops, Events for Children, Professional Performance plus Swing Dance & Country Line Dance events, & more! nantucketdancefestival.org

NANTUCKET COMEDY FESTIVAL: JULY 8 TO 11, 2026 Celebrating 20 years of summer laughter with 4 days of fun & signature events for all ages. Tickets at nantucketcomedy.com 7 AM - Sports Fishing on the Herbert T Capt. Fred Tonkin is an experienced island fisherman who will take you to where the fish are biting: a memorable trip for the whole family. All equipment provided.

Book at 508-228-6655 (evenings: 508-257-4176). Again at 10am, 1pm, & 4pm 8:20 AM - Historic Mansions of Main Street and America’s Oldest Windmill A 1.8 mi, 45 min. exercise walk with historic commentary past whaling era mansions & back downtown. Cash only; $25; $20 seniors (65+) ; $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Meet at Main & Centre by the bank steps 10 min early. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972 8:30 to 10 AM - Pick Your Own Veggies at Bartlett’s Step aboard the Bartlett’s hay wagon for a family-friendly trip to the heart of produce fields. See what’s fresh & in-season. Bartlett’s provides a bag to fill up with farm-fresh vegetables to take home. Registration required: BartlettsFarm.com 9 to 9:45 AM - Feeding Frenzy at Maria Mitchell Assn. Aquarium Join MMA staff as they feed the hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens.

Fun for all ages. Registration required at MariaMitchell.org.

9 to 9:45 AM - Ravenous Reptiles with MMA for Ages 4+ Learn about unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, & more while interacting with educational animals. Pre-registration is recommended at MariaMitchell.org 9 to 11 AM - Free Ecologist in Training Workshops Discover your inner field ecologist. Get hands-on field experiences and connect with professionals in a welcoming, fun, and judgment-free environment. llnf.org 9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery Learn about shellfish production, fishery enhancement, oyster restoration, water quality work, eelgrass, & more at the Town’s Brant Point Shellfish Hatchery. Preregistration required: Nantucket-MA.gov/691/Brant-Point-Shellfish-Hatchery continued on page 36

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

MAP of DOWNTOWN NANTUCKET brant point Lighthouse ▲

● NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION PROPERTIES

whaLing museum: 13 Broad Street Hear the story of Nantucket over 4 centuries with rotating exhibits in 9 galleries. Daily programs, films, & a stunning view of town from the rooftop. Open from 10am. oLdest house: 16 Sunset Hill Built in 1686; restored in 1990. Opening June 2026.

● oLdest house

greater Light: 8 Howard Street Built in the 1790s & transformed into a stunning whimsical summer home in the 1920s, this is home to the NHA Decorative Arts Program. Opening June 2026

pubLic boat ramp

chiLdren’s beach

hadwen house: 96 Main Street This Greek Revival mansion built in 1846 is the only mansion of its era onisland open to the public. Exhibits include Nantucket Lightship Baskets, maps, and decorative arts. Open 11am-4pm May 23-Sept. 4.

steamship authority

▲

first congregationaL church

★

●

oLd miLL: 50 Prospect St The oldest functioning mill in the USA, built in 1746. Opening June 2026.

whaLing museum

hyLine

★

▲ atheneum methodist church

st. mary’s

▲

oLd gaoL: 15R Vestal Street Constructed of massive oak timbers with iron bolts & iron rods across the windows. The heavy wooden doors are reinforced with iron.

Opening June 2026.

Please visit nha.org for hours, tours, ticket prices, and additional information.

▲ pacific cLub

▲

▲

greater Light

●

unitarian church

●

●

observatory

■ ■

research Library

▲

fire hose cart house oLd gaoL

●quaker meeting &

3 bricks

▲ civiL

●hadwen house

▲ st. pauL’s

aquarium ■

shipwreck & Lifesaving museum: 158 Polpis Road eganmaritime.org Learn the dramatic history of Nantucket’s shipwrecks, lifesaving, and rescuers.

Family activities. Free shuttle to the museum from Visitor Services downtown runs June 23-Oct. 3.. Beautiful property at Folger’s Marsh open for picnics. Opening for 2026 on May 25. town pier

war monument

mitcheLL house

■

francis street beach

naturaL science

●1800 house

oLd miLL

●

african meeting house

▲

▲ OTHER HISTORICAL POINTS OF INTEREST

brant point Lighthouse: 2 Easton St First erected in 1746, America's second oldest lighthouse and at 26 feet tall, the shortest in New England. nantucket atheneum: 1 India St The island’s public library was built in 1847 and is filled with art & artifacts as well as books, periodicals, digital materials. Children’s section, reading room, & public garden. Open Mon.-Sat. pacific cLub: Lower Main St Built in 1772 by whaling merchant William Rotch, this is the only 18th century brick building still standing on-island. Quarterboard on the front lists names of 3 notable ships of Rotch: 2 in the Boston Tea Party and

the first ship to fly the American flag in London. first congregationaL church: 62 Centre St Built in 1725 & moved to this site in 1765. Open for services.

Climb the tower for a view of town & the harbor. st mary’s church: 3 Federal St Built in 1897. Open for services. st pauL’s church: 20 Fair St Founded in 1838. Rebuilt in 1901 with Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows. Church is open daily for visits and for Sunday services. methodist church: 2 Centre St Built in 1831.

Open for services.

unitarian church: 11 Orange St Built in 1809. Houses the town clock & 1810 Portuguese Bell. Open for services. three bricks: 93, 95 & 97 Main Street Identical brick mansions built 1836-38 by whaling merchant Joseph Starbuck for his sons. Now privately owned. soLdiers & saiLors monument: Upper Main Street Built in 1875, this obelisk bears the names of 73 island men who died in the Civil War. african meeting house: 29 York Street Built in 1827, the only public building constructed & occupied by African Americans in the 19th century still standing on-island.

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Art on the Patio

This summer, the Artists Association of Nantucket (AAN) is transforming the patio at their Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery downtown at 8 Federal Street into an intimate open-air gallery with a series of Artist Patio Pop-Up events. Through the summer season into September, these pop-ups invite art lovers to meet a rotating roster of talented AAN artist members as they display their work in the heart of town. Admission is free, and the casual, welcoming format makes it easy to drop by, browse original artwork, and chat with the artists themselves.

Just in time for the long holiday weekend from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm this Friday, July 3, John Carruthers brings his celebrated woodcuts to the Patio. With a Master’s degree from the New York Academy of Art, Carruthers has been carving and printing woodcuts for more than 30 years. He has been teaching and exhibiting with the Artists Association of Nantucket since 2004, and was honored at the AAN 2023 Summer Gala, with his work auctioned off in support of the organization.

Carruthers’ prints document the places he inhabits: New York City in winter, the cobblestoned lanes and harbor views of Nantucket, and the woods of New York’s Hudson Valley. Each piece is carved by hand with line cutters and gouges, inked with small rollers, and pressed onto archival rice paper or drawing paper, one print at a time. No block is printed in large editions; each impression is a near-unique artist’s proof.

On Saturday, July 4 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, painter Elle Foley will meet with the public and display her art on the AAN Patio. Elle Foley is a lifetime member of the Artists Association of Nantucket and one of our island’s most recognized plein air painters.

Trained as an architect with a BFA in painting, Elle is a woman with many talents. She knows all the nooks and crannies of Nantucket, capturing some of the small quiet spots in her work. Beginning each painting with a big sky, her lyrical clouds roll across the canvas and entice the viewer into a more detailed examination of each painting. Foley constructs her landscapes in careful fore, middle, and background planes, yet her paintings pulse with light and painterly continued on page 38

APPETIZERS

ROMAN STYLE FRIED AR RT TICHOKE $17 lemon/sea salt POINT JUDITH CALAMARI $19 banana pepper/spicy marinara/corn flour SNOW CRAB DIP $22 snow crab/old bay/tortillas chips BOLO MEA AT TBALLS $18 tomato ragu/whipped ricotta/basil/grilled bread FRESH BURRATA AT TA A $18 tomato sundried pepper relish micro basil/ balsamic/crostini WARM OLIVES $11 WA MEA AT T & CHEESE BOARD $20 stuffffed peppers/ salami coppa/provolone/cheddar fig jam/rosemary crackers TRUFFLE FRIES $12 truffffle powder/maldon sea salt JUMBO SHRIMP COCKT TA AIL $22 jumbo gulf shrimp/dantes cocktail sauce/lemon HOUSE WINGS $19 honey jerk hot sauce/pickled okra/blue cheese dressing BABY WEDGE $17 bacon/maytag blue/fried onion/egg cherry tomato/shallot vinaigrette

TINA COBELLE~STURGES & CLARA BERTA

SIGNATURE AT COCKT TA AILS NOBA SPRITZ $17 aperol/prosecco/soda water orange wheel MOSCOW MULE $17 vodka/goslings ginger beer/lime ACK PA PALOMA $18 tequila/grapefruit/sprite tonic soda ESPRESSO MAR RT TINI $18 vodka/espresso/coffffee liqueur bailey’’ss/pumpkin spice syrup

Friday Exhibition Opening July 3 • 5:30-7:30p Show will continue through 7/15

Discover Upstairs at 4 India Street Mon-Sat 10a-5p & Sundays 12-4p thegallerynantucket.com 508-228-8509 • @thegallerynantucket

July 2-8, 2026

PERFECT MANHATT ATTA AN $19 makers mark/sweet vermouth dry vermouth/angostura bitters/luxardo cherry/orange INLAND SPLASH $19 vodka/chambord/pineapple juice orange juice/lime juice/grenadine

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FLA AT TBREADS T BRAISED SHORT RIB $20 mozzarella//braised short rib giardiniera a/chevre cheese MARG GARIT TA A $18 fresh mozza arella/basil/tomato BUFF FA ALO CHICKEN $20 buffffalo chicken/blue cheese hot sauce

HANDHELDS THE IT TA ALIAN $21 sliced mortadella/cappicola ham/salami/provolone/lettuce tomato/calabrian pepper mayo tuscan roll NOBABURGER $21 lettuce/tomato/onion/american cheese/sesame kaiser/pickle add bacon $3 add fried egg $2 LOBSTER GRILLED CHEESE $34 fresh lobster/cheddar american blend ripe tomato/buttered sourdough NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN SANDWICH $22 buttermilk brined chicken lettuce/tomato/pickle/creamy nashville hot sauce/sesame kaiser

BEER/SEL LT TZER $9

Cisco Whales T Ta ale Pale Ale Cisco T Trracker Bud Light Pacifico Stella Artois Corona Nantucket Cran Seltzer Nantucket Te Tequila Lime Seltzer

WINE

Decoy y,, Cabernet Sauvignon $15/$58 Kate Arnold, Pinot Noir $15/$58 Craggy Range, Sauvingon Blanc $16/$64 Sonoma Cutrerr,, Chardonnay $16/$64 Masi Masianco, Pinot Grigio $16/$64 Whispering Angel, Rose $16/$64 Villa Sandi Prosecco $15/$58

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inside THE NANTUCKET INN 1 MILLER LANE 508.228.6900

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Bicentennial from page 5

Lunch & Dinner Tuesday-Sunday RESERVATIONS RESY.COM or 508.257.4499

But the summer of 1976 was all about the national birthday party. I can’t recall any over-the-top political debates. You could still be mad at Nixon, think of Gerald Ford as a stumbling goof or consider Jimmy Carter to be a simple peanut farmer not ready for the big stage. It didn’t matter. Everyone was united in the goal of celebrating our country’s 200th birthday.

I’ve spoken to a lot of my contemporaries about our collective memories of the 1976 festivities.

Everyone recognized a different part of the elephant.

Val Oliver, Ellen Mayo, and Melissa Patterson recalled that the overall theme was to dress like the Nantucket folks who were around in 1876. Petticoats were all the rage for the ladies. The guys looked like they were extras in an off-Broadway production of Moby Dick.

My vague memory is that my dad, Bill Tornovish Sr., had loaned out a new Ford F-150 to be used as the base for a parade float. I can’t tell you what the float was about or who was on it, but the truck was a beautiful two-toned metallic brown and crème color.

I wish that truck was sitting in my driveway right now!

My sister Lori told me that she was pretty sure that she won a 50-yard dash race on Federal Street.

Rick Troy and Missy Dee said the same thing for their respective divisions. All were proven correct when I poked through some archived articles from the Inquirer and Mirror for that week.

Lynn Burchell Heyer and her sister Lee Ann Pa-

July 2-8, 2026

pale-Kalman had great memories and the receipts to back them up. Lynn said, “I think Joann Mulligan and I were in the parade with the Red Men (The Improved Order of the Red Men was a fraternal organization dating back to 1834). We were riding our horses and the natives were behind us. My Aunt Nancy and family made a float with a whale and a whale boat filled with kids as the crew. My dad was a harpooner along with several others as harpooners. The harpooners walked the route.”

Lee Ann, Lynn’s sister, had a similar recollection.

“My dad (Gibby Burchell) and my ex-husband John Papale escorted a longboat dressed as Nantucket whalemen. I was inside a giant sperm whale that was built over Nancy Chase’s Land Rover. We were towing the boat, Nantucket sleighride style. Nancy drove and I sat beside her. We had a fire extinguisher that was piped up through the whale’s head. We went spouting our way up Main Street! Nancy created the whole thing. It was the best 4th ever!!”

Lynn had found a picture of her and Joann Mulligan on their ponies. One was dressed as a cowboy and the other was an Indian. Lee Ann had a picture of the whaling crew escorting the dory that was being towed by the Land Rover/whale.

The Nantucket Bicentennial was a patriotic and wholesome celebration of our local and national history. No controversies. No protests. Just one nation, throwing a big ol’ party. I sure hope that our 250th will be similar. Happy birthday, America!

Steve “Tuna” Tornovish is a Nantucket native who has spent his life fishing from the beaches of his beloved island. He loves to introduce clients to the joy of fishing with his Nantucket Island Fishing Adventures: stevetuna.com

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Personal & Business Banking Wealth Managem ment • Financing 112 Pleasant Street • Zero Main Street capecodfive.com • 888-225-4636 Member FDIC

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Quick and Convenient Medical Care Urgent Access at Nantucket Cottage Hospital provides walk-in medical care for non-life-threatening conditions. Open Monday through Friday from 8a to 5p and Saturdays and Sundays from 8a to 3p.

Located in the Anderson Building on the hospital campus at 57 Prospect Street.

Learn more at nantuckethospital.org/urgentaccess

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Seven Events to Inspire and Delight

Step into the magic of a Broadway-style circus filled with wonder, imagination, and delight on July 23, when the Maria Mitchell Association brings A Night at the Circus to their annual Stargazer Gala, followed by six family friendly performances.

Inspired by the fearless spirit of curiosity and discovery that defined Maria Mitchell—America’s first professional female astronomer—this extraordinary evening brings the joy of exploration to life through breathtaking performances, lively celebration, and unforgettable enchantment.

This year for their gala, the MMA welcomes Venardos Circus, a dazzling Broadway-style production, under an intimate big-top tent. Their world-class acrobats, breathtaking aerialists, and dazzling jugglers treat audiences to moments of humor, heart, and spectacle in a show-stopping performance.

Guests at the July 23 Gala will enjoy “Big Top” bites and curated concessions by Island Kitchen, along with “Celestial Cocktails” crafted for the occasion. A roaming magician, fortune tellers, and a whimsical wishing tree add to the mystique of the evening. Following the Venardos performance, the celebration continues with live music by the Hess Twins, as guests dance, mingle, and revel in the thrill of something truly magical.

At press time, tickets to the Stargazer Gala A

July 2-8, 2026

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Night at the Circus were still available at MariaMitchell.org.

On July 24, 25, and 26, MMA will host the Stargazer Circus, presenting six family-friendly general admission performances. Founded by former Ringling Bros. ringmaster Kevin Venardos, this circus reimagines the traditional American circus as a theatrical experience that celebrates artistry, storytelling, and human connection.

A memorable event for the entire family, ticketholders will experience the wonder of the circus under an intimate Big Top tent, where worldclass acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and comedians from around the globe deliver an unforgettable performance for audiences of all ages.

Afternoon performances begin at 3pm; evening performances start at 7 pm. Each of the six performances is approximately 90 minutes long, including a 15-minute intermission. Concessions will be available. Tickets are $95 for adults; $45 for youths; and $125 for stage-side seating at mariamitchell.org.

Be part of the excitement as the Maria Mitchell Association launches this extraordinary new tradition—an evening designed to inspire, delight, and support the future of science, education, and discovery on Nantucket.

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket OF INDEPE RS N EA

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Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

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Water Contest Food Trucks Family games Live Music Farmer’s Market

July 2-8, 2026

Fireflies from page 4

“Fireflies!” For me, it was the first of the season, but I have since heard that some people have been seeing them for a few weeks already. Such a treat.

It’s been a while since I’ve seen them. Lat year we had only a few, and I chalked it up to me not spending as much time on the deck during the evening. However, fireflies (or “lighting bugs” in some parts of the country) prefer moist, warm soil.

And in this dry, drought summer, we may just be seeing fewer of them.

Fireflies are actually bioluminescent beetles rather than true bugs. Fireflies and lightning bugs are common names for a family of beetles called Lampyridae. There are actually more than 150 species of fireflies in North America, and more than 2,000 worldwide. They generally divide into three groups based on how they attract mates. photo by Sarah T. Bois There are those that blink in quick flashes, those with long, slow glows, and those that don’t use light at all, but communicate by other means such as pheromones (chemical signals).

For the “blinkers,” each species “blinks” in a specific pattern, like Morse code to communicate with others of the same species. At this time of year, they are looking for mates, with the males flying around at dusk flashing specific patterns to attract females. It’s a dramatic love-dance with the firefly abdomen aglow as he searches for a mate. The females, meanwhile, rest on vegetation and generally continued on page 21

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OPEN DAIL LY Y FOR LUNCH & DIN NNER Open from 11:30 to midnight (kitchen closes at 10pm) 774-325-5812 • brotherhoodnantucket.com

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

Page 21

do not fly. When she sees a male of her own species flashing the correct pattern, she flashes back. In this way, females have their choice of mates. If she doesn’t flash back, he cannot find her. She can literally “throw shade”!

How do they do it? The glow is actually a chemical reaction known as bioluminescence. The lightning bug controls the reaction, and thus the pattern, via its light organ. The release of oxygen controls the reaction, so in the presence of oxygen and other necessary chemicals, the abdomen lights up. Without oxygen, there is no light.

There are about 15 species of Photinus fireflies in New England. They are small and produce a yellow-green flash. The Pyractomena fireflies are about the same size but produce an amber flash that looks like a campfire ember. The Photuris fireflies are bigger (about an inch long) with a green flash. Massachusetts Audubon’s Firefly Watch Program has a great infographic to help you determine which type of firefly you have based on the light you see.

In some parts of the world, fireflies will blink in unison as a group. This is famously seen with tropical fireflies in Southeast Asia. It has also been seen in the Great Smoky Mountains, where people gather every year to see the show.

Imagine seeing a sea of fireflies blinking green all in unison! Researchers are not positive about why this happens, but the main hypothesis is that they are attracting mates as a group rather than individually.

Fireflies are associated with summer in New England as this is their mating season and is the best time to see them. On Nantucket, they typically appear during late June and early July. While it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact date fireflies will appear each year, researchers know that temperature and precipitation have something to do with it. Fireflies love hot and humid weather. We haven’t had much precipitation lately, but when we do, the hot humid air resulting can lead to a spectacular firefly show. It’s one consolation for humidity!

Weather not only plays a role in how soon you’ll see lightning bug flashes but how many flashes, too. On warm and humid evenings, it’ll be like a firefly disco party with lots of flashes. Conversely, on cooler nights, when air temperatures take a dip into the 50s, it may take longer to see even a single flash. Why is this? Fireflies, like most insects, are cold-blooded (they depend on heat from their surrounding environment to help them function), so their activity peaks when temperatures rise and slows when temperatures drop. continued on page 22

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

Fireflies from page 21

Researchers have found that the numbers of fireflies are declining globally, and there are a few reasons why. First: there are fewer places for fireflies to live because of habitat loss primarily due to development. Fireflies need marshes and meadows to live in and illuminate. This could also be a climate change effect.

Fireflies also need darkness to light up and find love, because bioluminescence is needed for reproduction. Males attract mates with their glowing butts.

They need darkness to signal each other. Dark skies are diminishing especially in highly populated areas in the northeast. Nantucket’s dark skies initiative, Nantucket Lights, works to preserve our dark nights.

The use of broad-spectrum pesticides creates additional challenge for the glowing insects. Adults only survive for a few weeks, just enough time to mate.

They spend most of their time in the ground as larvae eating slugs and snails before coming out of the ground and lighting up. Pesticides soaking into the ground take a toll.

Fireflies around your yard are not only a fabulous evening light show, they help control other insect pests. As larvae, they are predatory and eat other insects, snails, and worms. As adults, they may eat other insects but mainly feed on plant nectar. To attract fireflies (and other beneficial insects) to your yard, limit or restrict pesticides as well as the wattage of outside light.

Because lightning bugs communicate with light, please don’t shine flashlights or other bright lights near them. It will confuse them and interfere with their nightly routine and possibly their mating chances!

It’s best to observe lightning bugs just after dusk. With a little practice, you can learn to recognize many fireflies by their flash patterns. To learn more about fireflies in Massachusetts or other areas of the US, check out the Xerces Society’s Firefly Atlas: fireflyatlas.org. This project collects species-level data on the distribution and seasonal timing of fireflies. You can add your observations and learn more about our lightning bugs.

And while I am always an advocate for collecting more data, don’t forget to enjoy the summer magic of fireflies!

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

Page 23

Elin’s Nantucket from page 7

lose their power for Heather. The first is the story of Elin’s breast cancer journey: the experience that inspired her novel Golden Girl. “I tell the story because it resonates with so many... Elin is a real person. I only cried once telling it, but it is a special moment during the tour among us all.” It’s the moment, she says, “when everyone on the bus comes together.”

The second is the story of how Elin and Chip met. On her very first ferry ride to Nantucket, Elin fell madly in love with the island, and, on that same trip at Cliffside, she fell madly in love with a boy named Chip, who was working there.

Elin’s most recent novel, Swan Song, is dedicated to him.

The guests who climb aboard the Nantucket Island Tours bus to take The Blue Book Tour visit from every state in our country, from the UK, and beyond. Last summer, a woman traveled solo from Australia specifically to take the tour, drawn

by Elin’s imagery in her novels. “It is a privilege to extend that on the tour,” Heather says.

She customizes the tour to the audience, whether she is speaking to a bus full of superfans who have read every word Elin has written or to a mix of readers and friends along for the ride who are discovering the island for the first time.

Either way, Heather meets them where they are.

She strives to help tourgoers feel like they’ve truly seen Elin’s version of Nantucket and understand the complexities and joys of living on Nantucket.

“Elins books are happy beach reads... I want them to walk away with the joy that you feel when you read one of Elin’s novels...that I have presented Nantucket in a way that would make Elin proud, and that they would experience in her books.

“I love it: I get such joy from giving the tour...I’d do it seven days a week if I could. I get to talk about my best friend for two hours!”

Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour of Nantucket is offered by Nantucket Island Tours on Wednesday, Thursday, & Sunday through October 18, 2026 Tickets at nantucketbustours.com

NANTUCKET

•

NEWPORT

•

NEWBURYPORT

Visit The Love Shack at 10 Old South Wharf to shop our 11th season’s newest LOLA jewelry, apparel, and scents!

10 Old South Wharf | 774-325-5982 | loveshacknantucket.com

2025 Firecracker 5k photo by Dean Giampietro

Celebrate Independence Day the Nantucket Way! Nantucket Firecracker 5k Run & Walk July 4th at 7am at Jetties Beach, Bathing Beach Road COURSE: Scenic course starting and ending at Jetties Beach through residential areas, including Beach Street and the Cliff AWARDS: Age division prizes including Kids, Youth & Seniors, Runners & Walkers through 3rd place.

NUMBER/T-SHIRT PICK UP: Nantucket Health Club, 10 Young's Way (508) 228-4750 on Friday, July 3rd between 9am to 6pm.

Register ahead of time online:

Race day sign up & number/t-shirt pick up will also be available at Jetties Beach on July 4th starting at 6am.

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

20 Years of Laughter from page 12

The Comedy Fest officially kicks off Thursday, July 9, at the Nantucket Performing Arts Center with the Roaring 20s Opening Party at 6 pm. For the first time, the pre-party is open to all ticket holders, who are encouraged to don their best Roaring 20s attire for an evening of celebration before Women’s Night of Comedy at 7 pm. This show features nationally acclaimed comedians Judy Gold, Katie Hannigan, and Teresa DeGaetano. This high-energy evening of comedy is a longstanding festival favorite and the perfect kickoff to anniversary weekend.

On Friday, July 10, audiences can enjoy a special screening of Townie at 3 pm in the Dreamland Theater, followed by an exclusive live Q&A with star Steve Sweeney and Academy Award-winning director Peter Farrelly. The acclaimed duo will share behind-the-scenes stories and insights from the making of the film and their careers in entertainment.

Friday evening continues at the Nantucket Performing Arts Center with NCF’s Legends of Comedy at 6 pm, featuring festival favorites Steve Sweeney, Jackie Flynn, Jimmy Dunn, and Tom Cotter. This one-night-only anniversary event celebrates the comedians who have helped shape the Nantucket Comedy Festival and kept audiences laughing year after year.

The 2026 Comedy Festival concludes Saturday, July 11, with the fan-favorite Boston vs. New York SmACKdown at 7 pm in the Dreamland Theater. This signature event features Brian Scott McFadden and Vladimir Caamaño representing New York, facing off against Boston favorites Dan Boulger and Tom Dustin in a fast-paced evening of stand-up, storytelling, and friendly rivalry. Returning to keep the peace is longtime referee Bob Ley, who has officiated the SmACKdown since its inception.

As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, the Nantucket Comedy Festival remains dedicated to bringing world-class comedy to Nantucket while supporting its yearround Stand Up & Learn™ educational initiative.

Nantucket Comedy Festival events often sell out, so secure your tickets today.

Guests can purchase individual event tickets or upgrade to a Patron Pass for access to all Festival events and exclusive experiences. For details and tickets, visit NantucketComedy.com/attend

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Smoothies, and B owls Vegan Specialties, Chips, Sides, + Drink s Ve

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Sankaty Lighthouse 9.5 miles Siasconset (via Polpis) 10.5 miles Smith Point 7 miles Squam 8.5 miles Surfside 3.5 miles Tom Nevers Head 6.5 miles Wauwinet 9 miles

Nantucket Island is just about 14 miles by 3-1/2 miles, and there are miles of bike paths to nearly every area. This means that riding a bicycle is one of the best ways to get around our island.

Follow the QR code to discover miles of bike paths, where to rent bikes, biking tips, and where to find water stations along the way.

Airport 3.5 miles Altar Rock (via Polpis) 6 miles Eel Point 6 miles Madaket 6.75 miles Monomoy 2 miles Quaise 3.5 miles Quidnet 7.5 miles

Approximate distances, in miles to various locations of Nantucket Island from Main Street and Orange Street (Pacific National Bank)

41° 17' 30" Latitude by 70° 05' 30" Longitude ~ The winter population is approximately 20,000

NANTUCKET ISLAND Extreme caution should be exercised when traveling to Great Point due to driving in soft sand. Please respect restricted conservation areas.

is the home of the Great Point Lighthouse and is accessible by foot or four-wheel drive vehicles.

GREAT POINT

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com July 2-8, 2026 Page 25

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

NANTUCKET ISLAND BEACHES NORTH SHORE AND HARBOR BEACHES

40th Pole: Great for families and young children, but no lifeguards. On Nantucket

Sound; warm water during July, August and September inspired nickname “The Bathtub” for area nearby. Parking. Best access via 4WD vehicle.

Dionis: 3 miles from town by bike on the north side of Eel Point Rd off Madaket Road. Look for the boulder marked “Dionis.” Sheltered by dunes, calm waters for swimming, safe for children; restrooms, & parking. Beachgoers can take NRTA shuttle bus to Eel Point Rd stop & walk.

Steps: Between Dionis and Jetties beaches; access from Cliff Road. No lifeguard, no facilities, very little parking. Gentle surf; sandbar. Many steep steps must be descended to get to the beach.

Jetties: Easy bike ride from town, or take the shuttle bus. Great beach for families. Lifeguards, changing rooms, playground, volleyball nets, restrooms, showers, public phones, restaurant and take-out food service. Concession and restrooms handicap accessible; boardwalk to the beach. Tennis. Windsurfing, sailboat, and kayak rentals. Shuttle service from town to Jetties Beach is available seasonally.

Brant Point: Easy walk or bike ride from town. No lifeguard. Strong current; experienced swimmers; beach drops off suddenly under the water. Scenic beach with Brant Point Lighthouse; nice to sit and watch the boats rounding the point.

Here is where to go to wave goodbye to friends and family departing on the Steamship.

Children’s: Harbor Beach, an easy walk from town down So. Beach Street and off Harbor View Way. Flotation devices are not permitted within the guarded area.

Ideal for small children; park, playground, and bandstand; lifeguard, restrooms, showers, food service, picnic tables. Food, playground, and rest room are all accessible. Activities sponsored by Park & Recreation Commission are often held at this beach during the summer.

Francis Street: Five-minute walk from Main Street. Calm harbor waters for swimming; no lifeguard. Jungle gym, kayak rentals, bathroom.

SOUTH SHORE - OCEAN BEACHES

Cisco Beach: Four-mile bike ride to end of Hummock Pond Road. Heavy surf; lifeguard. No facilities. Parking. Rip currents can be strong.

Ladies Beach: To access, turn left at the end of Bartlett Farm Road. No facilities; no lifeguard. Limited parking. Rip current can be strong; heavy surf.

Miacomet Beach: at the end of Miacomet Road. Some parking. Surf and rip currents can be strong on the ocean side. No facilities or food service. This beach is near Miacomet Pond, but the pond is currently closed due to harmful algae.

South Shore Beach: at the end of South Shore Rd. Limited parking; difficult to access beach, 4WD is advisable. No lifeguard; no facilities.

Surfside: Located at the end of Surfside Road, a three-mile ride on paved bike path or take the shuttles. Easy to park. Plenty of surf, wide beach is good for picnics, beach games, and surfcasting. Kite flying west of Surfside Beach is acceptable; for safety reasons, please do not fly kites east of Surfside toward the airport.

Due to the number of people who frequent Surfside Beach during the day, it is inadvisable to fly kites during the peak beachgoing hours. Lifeguard, restrooms, showers, public phones, food service. Shuttle service from town to Surfside Beach is available seasonally.

Fisherman’s Beach: Located between Surfside Beach and Nobadeer. No parking; Beach access via steep wooden steps. Plenty of surf, wide beach is good for picnics, beach games, and surfcasting. No lifeguard; no facilities.

Nobadeer: Located near the airport. Limited parking; difficult to access beach.

Plenty of surf, wide beach is good for picnics, beach games, and surfcasting. No lifeguard; no facilities.

Madequecham: Land Bank property at the end of Madequecham Valley Road; rough sand road. Parking. No facilities; no lifeguards. Rip current can be strong; heavy surf.

Tom Nevers (“Pebble Beach“): Surf can be heavy; very coarse sand. No lifeguard; no facilities. Good for fishing. Strong rip currents; heavy surf. Access to the beach can be difficult.

WESTERN SHORE - OCEAN BEACHES

Madaket: As far west as you can go, six-mile bike ride on scenic, paved bike path, or take the shuttle bus. Heavy surf, lifeguard, restrooms. Famous for its incredible sunsets.

EASTERN SHORE - OCEAN BEACHES

Siasconset: Regular shuttle bus service or seven-mile ride on paved bike path.

Surf can be heavy; lifeguard. Food available in nearby village of ’Sconset.

Low Beach: 4WD access. Surf can be heavy; no lifeguard.

BAY & POND BEACHES

Miacomet Pond: This fresh water pond is currently closed due to harmful algae.

Pocomo Beach: Great for kayaking and to learn to windsurf. Just west of the

Head of the Harbor. Good for children. No lifeguards, no facilities.

Eel Point: Good for fishing and watching the sunset. No lifeguard; no facilities.

Limited parking. Rip currents can be strong.

Coskata-Coatue and Great Point: at the end of Wauwinet Road, past The Wauwinet Inn. Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge managed by Trustees of Reservations; beach sticker required for vehicles from Trustees of Reservations. Great for fishing and for seeing Great Point Lighthouse up close. Rolling dunes, bayberry, beach plum, heather, and beach grass. Salt marsh and maritime shrubland.

The largest red cedar savanna and woodland in New England. Gray and harbor seals. Public restrooms available at the lighthouse Memorial Day-Columbus Day. Sections of the refuge are sometimes closed to protect nesting shorebirds. Dogs permitted only from Sept. 16 thru March 31 and must be leashed at all times.

Guided tours with Trustee naturalists offered in-season. Seasonal hunting permitted. For more details, go to www.TheTrustees.org Property Lookup.

Sesachacha Pond: off Polpis Road. Great for families; warm water; no facilities; no lifeguard. Parking. Near the Audubon Sesachacha Heathlands and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Leave only footprints...

Nantucket has some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world. Please respect Nantucket’s fragile environment and the beauty of our island. Clean up your litter, respect private property, and use only designated entry points. In areas where dune reclaimation is taking place, please do not cross the rope or fence barriers protecting the dunes.

BEACH SAFETY •Learn to swim. If you can’t swim an overhead stroke for at least 15 minutes you should not be in the ocean. •Never swim alone. Always swim with a buddy, and swim near a lifeguard whenever possible. •Stay out of the “surf zone” where the waves break at the shoreline. Waves are at their greatest force here, and even a small wave can lift you up and throw you headfirst into the sand. •Never run from the beach into the water and dive headfirst into the waves. Sandbars that cannot be seen from the surface may be present and/or the water may be too shallow.

•Don’t jump or dive into the water from a pier or rock jetty. From a pier or jetty, water appears much deeper than it really is. What looks like 10 or 20 feet of water may only be 2 to 3 feet deep. Diving in could be fatal. The same applies for jumping headfirst into the ocean or a wave from a surfboard – don’t do it! It’s not a risk worth taking. •If you are body surfing or boogie boarding, always keep your arms out in front of you to protect your head and neck. •A rip current will pull you away from the shore, but it will not pull you under. If you’re caught in a rip current, do not swim toward the shore! Instead, swim parallel to the shore, until you’re out of the rip current. Then, swim in to shore. •Never drink alcohol or use drugs at the beach. It clouds your ability to make wise decisions, and that could be fatal! •Take direction from lifeguards at all times.

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping A Variety of Boat Tours for All Ages Call or visit us on Straight Wharf for your Island Adventure

508-228-7037 Straight Wharf, Slip #1011

NANTUCKET by WATER (formerly Shearwater Excursions) is a local family-run company dedicated to providing unique tours and cruises to individuals and families of all age groups. From small kids to grandparents, NBW has trips that cater to your needs and taste for adventure.

Whether you take a leisurely tour around Nantucket Harbor, or a longer adventure exploring the wildlife sanctuary of Coatue or visiting the unique 5th Bend Oyster Farm, Nantucket By Water promises an exceptional experience. nantucketbywater.com

Blue Beetle

508-228-3227 12 Main Street

Open Daily Clothing, Accessories, Jewelry, Gifts

Located at 12 Main Street, BLUE BEETLE reflects the playfulness and elegance of island living.

We strive to provide a collection of carefully curated clothing, jewelry, gifts and accessories that portray the summer lifestyle on Nantucket. The boutique is filled with modern, chic, and contemporary fashions to suit every occasion. We proudly sell Joules, Jude Connally, Captiva Cashmere, Lilla P and MZ Wallace. Known for our Nantucket Jewelry, there is something for everyone; beads to fit Pandora, rings, bracelets and of course our charm bar, where you can create your own unique island necklace. Shop year round in store or visit us online at BlueBeetleNantucket.com

Commonwealth

508-680-1399 16 Federal Street

Open Daily. Visit us in the store & online!

Fabulous Resale. Fresh Finds.

COMMONWEALTH is a unique resale boutique where we believe even clothes deserve a second chance. This eclectic little shop on Oak Street specializes in curating quality gently used pieces from your favorite designers. Come in to find preloved gems or bring in your gently used items to turn your closet into cash!

Commonwealthnantucket.com

The Love Shack by Lola Open for the 2026 Season Layer. Collect. Gift.

774-325-5982 10 Old South Wharf

THE LOVE SHACK is located right in the heart of Nantucket’s boat basin and it is home to our entire collection of LOLA jewelry. Here you can see, touch and layer all of our pendants, chains, and bracelets that LOLA offers. It is also our inspiration for our Love Shack apparel and home goods which include t-shirts, candles, hats, glassware – everything you need that is perfect for your very own Love Shack! Holiday Sale: discounts on everything in the store (not including gift cards). lolacompany.com

Sara Campbell Open for the season Celebrating Made in the USA every day!

Artists Association of Nantucket

508-228-0294 In-Person Gallery & Online Exhibits 8 Federal Street

The mission of the ARTISTS ASSOCIATION OF NANTUCKET is to foster the visual arts on Nantucket. They create a vibrant arts community by promoting, supporting, and encouraging the work of Nantucket artists, providing educational programs in the arts, and preserving the legacy of Nantucket artists. You can see a range of works, including oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor, mixed media, ceramics, and photography in AAN’s Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery downtown at 8 Federal Street. Through July 7 FROM MOORS TO MOORINGS exhibit will be on display. Stay in touch at nantucketarts.org for a schedule of 2026 exhibits. Visit AAN’s online gallery to view regularly changing online exhibitions of fresh, original artwork from iconic Nantucket artists. nantucketarts.org

G. S. Hill Gallery Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm Oils, watercolors, prints, and note cards by G. S. Hill

Apparel & Accessories

508-680-1626 5 South Beach St.

SARA CAMPBELL is a women’s fashion brand rooted in timeless, feminine style, and American craftsmanship. We are a small business with a big vision—creating mindful collections in limited quantities, made in the USA. With our customers and community at the heart of everything, we believe in style that endures. Visit SARA CAMPBELL at 5 South Beach to find the perfect look … see you soon! saracampbell.com

Art Schools & Classes Nantucket Island School of Design & the Arts

508-228-9248 OPEN HOUSE: July 2 & 3 from 10 am to 4 pm Seaview Farm at 23 Wauwinet Road Workshops, Tutorials, Lectures, Silo Gallery Openings Classes, Workshops, Tutorials, Lessons, Gallery Openings, & More

Art for all at NISDA. Summer Creativity at the Nantucket Island School of Design & the Arts!

Students 5 to 105+ celebrate creativity, imagination and interdisciplinary art through Ceramics, Fibers, Painting & Drawing, Photography, and Creative Wellness. NISDA is dedicated to sharing the spirit of creativity that the Arts bring and offers a place to be inspired, refreshed; to create, & learn. Week-long to season-long Artist’s Residencies. NISDA is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit. Visit NISDA’s Open House July 2 & 3 from 10am-4pm! Meet our staff! Sign up for Painting, Textiles, Clay, Photography, & Creative Well Being! Get Messy & Make a Bowl in the Long Shed! Join us July 9th for Nantucket Dance Festival’s Swing Dance Night at NISDA, and July 11 at Jetties Beach for the 51st Annual NISDA Sandcastle & Sculpture Contest. www.nisda.org

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Artists & Galleries “From Moors to Moorings” on display thru July 7 “Brilliant Days, Luminous Nights opening July 9

Adventure / Eco-Tours Nantucket by Water

July 2-8, 2026

508-228-1353 40 Straight Wharf

G. S. HILL’s one-man gallery is open daily. For more than three decades, Greg’s original oil and watercolor paintings have captured the image, spirit, and soul of Nantucket. The gallery also offers giclees and miniatures, plus exclusive American-made gifts designed by Greg and Judi Hill. Est. 1979 gshill.com

Gallery at Four India

508-228-8509 Exhibition Opening July 3 from 5:30-7:30pm Featuring Tina Cobelle~Sturges & Clara Berta A fine selection of art & art glass Open Daily upstairs at 4 India Street

THE GALLERY AT FOUR INDIA is an exhibition gallery that offers the collector an tranquil space to browse through fine collections of art. The Gallery also represents some of the finest contemporary artists known for their traditional realism. Opening July 3 with a special exhibition reception is a show featuring work by Tina Cobelle-Sturges and by Clara Berta. This exhibition continues through July 15. Stroll upstairs and see the new artists and works in the gallery for 2026. THE GALLERY AT FOUR INDIA is open daily. thegallerynantucket.com

Hostetler Gallery

740-591-8180

Forest & Form: A Centennial Celebration Burgundy Wine Tasting July 2 & Special Celebration of David July 9 Sculpture & Art of David Hostetler & other featured artists

42 Centre St

Located in beautiful downtown Nantucket, HOSTETLER GALLERY is hosting a centennial celebration of the art of David Hostetler, featuring never before seen sculptures by David from a private collection. This special exhibition features monumental works carved from elm, walnut, cherry, and other native hardwoods, and offers a deep look at Hostetler’s evolution as a sculptor of the female form. Special events will be held throughout the season. In addition, the gallery also exhibits paintings & photography by contemporary esteemed artists as well as luxury Eittem sculptural handbags. hostetlergallery.com

Susan Lister Locke Gallery

508-228-2132 & 508-221-0531 July 8: Ellie Gottwald Watercolor Class (call for reservations) 28A Easy Street Art and Inspired, Creative Jewelry

Inspired by the ocean that surrounds her, be it in her Gallery on Nantucket or her winter home in Palm Beach Florida, Jewelry Designer, Susan Lister Locke creates highly sought after, unique jewelry using beautiful, and oftentimes rare, gemstones set in high karat Gold and Platinum.

Follow @susanlisterlockejeweler susanlisterlocke.com

Banking Cape Cod 5 Open Monday-Saturday

888-225-4636 Locations at 112 Pleasant Street & Zero Main Street

We at CAPE COD FIVE are deeply committed to the communities we serve. Our dedication to serving our neighbors and local businesses and earning our customers’ trust every day has remained the same since our founding in 1855. We focus on continuously evolving to be our customers’ trusted financial partner in a rapidly changing world, offering digital tools, accessibility and sound guidance and insight to help our customers navigate their unique journeys. capecodfive.com

Bike Rentals Cook’s Cycle Open Daily Bicycle Rentals & e-Bike Rentals

508-228-0800 6 So. Beach Street, next to Affordable Rentals

Nantucket’s bike shop for all of your vacation needs.... here at Cook’s Cycles Nantucket we have all of the latest bikes and accessories for your beach runs, brewery tours, and beyond.

Our selection of new bicycles & e-bikes in a convenient downtown Nantucket location (just a 2-minute walk from Steamboat Wharf) is great for a day of cycling. Nantucket is known for its many bike paths and trails. Whether you want to ride to Jetties Beach for a swim or take in the sights of the Sconset Loop, Cooks Cycles has the bikes for you and your family. Moped & Jeep rentals, too! cookscyclesnantucket.com

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping Easy Riders Bicycles

508-325-2722 65 Surfside Road

Open Daily Bike Rentals, Sales, Service AND Electric Bikes

EASY RIDERS BICYCLE RENTALS offers rentals, sales, and service, plus island-wide free delivery on all rentals and usually within an hour or so. With advanced on-line reservations, it’s the easiest way to experience Nantucket! Offering low prices and discounts on multi-day, weekly, monthly, and group rentals of top quality, new GT and Easy Riders bicycles, as well as retrostyle Schwinn Cruisers, and accessories in a variety of styles...They have the right bicycle for all of your adventures. We have electric bikes. Check out our Easy Riders brand ebikes at erbikes.com. EASY RIDERS has a safe & convenient bike path location at 65 Surfside Road. easyridersbikerentals.com

Young’s Bicycle Shop

508-228-1151 6 Broad Street

Open daily in season “The Cycle-logical Way to See Nantucket Island”

Harvey A Young’s Bicycle Shop started on Nantucket in 1931. When Harvey sold the business to his son, Roger, it became YOUNG’S BICYCLE SHOP. Now with over 90 years in business, the 4th generation is running YOUNG’S. The Young family and their staff provide you with the ideal rental bike for Nantucket. Their fleet of CANNONDALE and TREK bikes are well maintained, so you and your family can have a safe and enjoyable bike ride around the island.

YOUNG’S also rents cars and Jeeps. Check out their website, give them a call, or stop in to see their friendly, knowledgeable staff, so they can share with you “The Cycle-logical Way to See Nantucket Island”. Reservations & delivery services available. youngsbicycleshop.com

Books & Publications CALL NANTUCKET

508-228-9165 ext. 110 FREE DOWNLOAD - Nantucket’s searchable phone book app CallNantucket.com The island’s “Little Black Book” CALL NANTUCKET is the fully searchable app version of The Nantucket Directory: the island’s phone book. Not sure who to call? Browse our Yellow Pages to choose the best company for your needs! Town information in our newly redesigned White Pages. Our CALL NANTUCKET app is FREE TO DOWNLOAD. CallNantucket@gmail.com

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket Guiding Visitors on Nantucket for 56 Years In print & online + eNewsletter

508-228-9165 Box 626, Nantucket, MA 02554

Visit our online publication to see more articles, more photos, enter contests, and to share your impressions of Nantucket. For more than half a century, YESTERDAY’S ISLAND/TODAY’S NANTUCKET has been the best source for planning your leisure time on Nantucket Island.

From Daffodil Festival through Christmas Stroll, you can pick up our print editions, available everywhere, or you can visit us online at YesterdaysIsland.com. After you leave your favorite island, you can stay in touch with the happenings here — find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram @nantucket_insider, and sign up for our free Nantucket eNewsletter — look for the link at the top of Nantucket.net Yesterdaysisland.com

Bookstores Mitchell’s Book Corner Open Daily See the calendar for our upcoming book signings

508-228-1080 54 Main Street

MITCHELL’S BOOK CORNER prides itself on a long tradition of personalized attention to its customers for more than 50 years. Visit nantucketbookpartners.com for any book in print, preorders, signed copies, e-books, audio books, gift cards, staff picks, and more. If the book is “on our shelves now” we can offer next business day island home delivery for a small fee. If the book is not on-hand we can either ship it to you or order it for you. We are also happy to ship books to anywhere in the US. MITCHELL’S is open daily. nantucketbookpartners.com

Nantucket Bookworks Open Daily: books, gifts, chocolate Books, chocolates, & unique gifts

508-228-4000 25 Broad Street

NANTUCKET BOOKWORKS is our quirky little shop chock full of books, gifts, and goodies. Visit nantucketbookpartners.com for books and nantucketbooksworks.com for the very best of Bookworks online. We have Nantucket gifts, puzzles, games, toys, art supplies, party accessories, stuffed animals, greeting cards, kids items, and so much more. And we have an enticing nook filled with amazing chocolates to buy and savor as you read your new books. We also are happy to ship anywhere in the US. For books, shop nantucketbookpartners.com. Order online or stop in to browse. BOOKWORKS is open daily. nantucketbookpartners.com

July 2-8, 2026

Car Rentals Affordable Rentals

508-228-3501 6 South Beach Street

Open daily Cars, jeeps, mopeds

AFFORDABLE RENTALS can help make your visit on Nantucket more complete. With their cars, 4x4s, vans, and mopeds, you will have access to all parts of the island: Great Point, Wauwinet, Coatue, Squam, ‘Sconset, Madaket, and more. Explore to your heart’s content in a vehicle from AFFORDABLE RENTALS, open daily at 6 South Beach Street. Call ahead for reservations. All major credit cards accepted. affrentals.com

Young’s Bicycle Shop

508-228-1151 6 Broad Street

Open daily in season “The Cycle-logical Way to See Nantucket Island”

Harvey A Young’s Bicycle Shop” started on Nantucket in 1931. When Harvey sold the business to his son, Roger, it became YOUNG’S BICYCLE SHOP. Now with over 90 years in business, the 4th generation is running YOUNG’S. The Young family and their staff provide you with the ideal rental bike for Nantucket AND YOUNG’S also rents cars and Jeeps. Check out their website, give them a call, or stop in to see their friendly, knowledgeable staff, so they can share with you “The Cycle-logical Way to See Nantucket Island”. Reservations & delivery services available. youngsbicycleshop.com

Charters - Sailing & Boating Endeavor Sailing Excursions

508-228-5585 Slip 1015, Straight Wharf

Private Charters. Per Person Fares Pleasure sailing

“Captain James Genthner shares his love of the Island with visitors aboard his sloop ENDEAVOR”—Ted Reinstein, CBS Good Day! Featured in Yankee Magazine’s Best of New England: “A cruise aboard the Endeavor is a lesson in beauty and local history.” “No one has done more to make sure that Nantucket’s maritime traditions are alive and well than Capt. Jim Genthner,” Nat Philbrick, author In the Heart of the Sea. The ENDEAVOR sails daily at 10 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and at sunset. They offer private charters, public sails. Gift certificates are available. Call for information and reservations. endeavorsailing.com

Nantucket by Water

508-228-7037 A Variety of Boat Tour Adventures for All Ages Straight Wharf, Slip #1011 Oyster Cruises, Ice Cream Cruises, Cocktail Cruises, Sunset Cruise, & more

NANTUCKET by WATER (formerly Shearwater Excursions) is a local family-run company dedicated to providing unique tours and cruises to individuals and families of all age groups. From small kids to grandparents, NBW has trips that cater to your needs and taste for adventure.

Whether you take a leisurely tour around Nantucket Harbor, or a longer adventure exploring the wildlife sanctuary of Coatue or visiting the unique 5th Bend Oyster Farm, Nantucket By Water promises an exceptional experience. nantucketbywater.com

Children’s Programs & Family Fun Family Activities @ Children’s Beach

508-228-0925

Activities & Fun at Children’s Beach thru mid-August See Calendar of Events for Dates & Times Fun & games for children and families

at Children’s Beach

Children’s Beach, located at the end of Harbor View Way, is the perfect park for families and children. Through August, the Town of Nantucket’s Culture & Tourism department sponsors fun for everyone, including free Sunday evening concerts, tie-dye, crafting, capoeira, magic shows, & more. See our display ad, check the events calendar, and use the QR code in our ad nantucket-ma.gov

Kids’ Night Out Nantucket Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays from 6-9 pm

508-901-9575 at Murray Camp

Enjoy your night out while your kids enjoy theirs! Operated by Murray Camp Nantucket (est.

1989), Kids' Night Out offers children ages 4–12 an exciting evening of games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, movies, and fun in a safe, supervised environment. Complimentary intown shuttle pickup and drop-off available. Register with the QR code in our ad kidsnightoutnantucket.com

Classes & Workshops Artists Association of Nantucket Open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm Classes & Workshops for all ages

508-228-0722 Visual Arts Center, 24 Amelia Drive

The ARTISTS ASSOCIATION’s Arts Program offers year-round educational programs for adults and children. Our spacious workshop on Amelia Drive hosts a wide variety of classes and workshops in many media including oil painting, watercolor, pastel, life drawing, ceramics, printmaking, textile art and mixed media. Our instructors are resident artists, AAN artist members and a variety of visiting artists who work in a range of mediums and bring a wealth of talent

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping and experience to the program. Classes are designed for all levels of experience, from the novice to advanced and for all ages. nantucketarts.org

Maria Mitchell Association

508-228-9198

Summer Programs for All Open Nights at Loines Observatory, 59 Milk St. Ext. Science center, aquarium, museums, & programs for all Join MARIA MITCHELL ASSN professional astronomers for an impressive tour of Nantucket’s night sky. MMA staff will guide you in viewing astronomical objects through our historic 8inch 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! In addition, MMA experts offer classes, workshops, nature tours, and so much more! mariamitchell.org

508-228-1017 The Courtyard, 16 Straight Wharf

Open daily Made fresh on Nantucket

Step into AUNT LEAH’s and discover why our homemade fudge has been loved for decades and voted award-winning year after year. Crafted fresh in our shop using premium ingredients, we offer more than 40 rich and creamy flavors that make every visit unforgettable. Don’t leave Nantucket without trying our famous chocolate-covered cranberries, available in both milk and dark chocolate. Sweet, tart, and perfectly indulgent, they’ve become a favorite island treat and gift. Looking for the perfect souvenir or special occasion gift? Explore our wonderful collection of beautifully packaged tins filled with our signature fudge and chocolate specialties — perfect for sharing a taste of Nantucket with family and friends. www.auntleahs.com

Consignment & Thrift Shops Commonwealth

508.680.1399 16 Federal Street

Visit us in the store and online!

Fabulous Resale. Fresh Finds.

NANTUCKET PHOTO CONTEST

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508-228-9165 Box 626, Nantucket, MA 02554

Deadline is Sept. 12, 2026 - CASH PRIZES See winners & entries online at Nantucket.net

ENTER EARLY & OFTEN! This annual photo contest is a popular way to share your photos of Nantucket with the world. Winners of previous contests are online at The Insider’s Guide to Nantucket: nantucket.net. The 2026 Contest has begun: DEADLINE TO ENTER IS SEPTEMBER 12, 2026. We accept copyright-free images of Nantucket present and past. Email your high resolution photo entries to ACKPhotoContest@gmail.com or mail us a CD or thumb drive with electronic images from your digital camera. Please make sure your digital images are highresolution. Visit Nantucket.net to see a great selection past entries and winners. nantucket.net/photo-contest-entry

Copying, Mailboxes, Shipping The UPS Store

508-325-8884 61 Old South Road

Open Monday - Saturday Locally owned and operated

Confections Aunt Leah’s Fudge

July 2-8, 2026

COMMONWEALTH is a unique resale boutique where we believe even clothes deserve a second chance. This eclectic little shop on Oak Street specializes in curating quality gently used pieces from your favorite designers. Come in to find preloved gems or bring in your gently used items to turn your closet into cash!

Commonwealthnantucket.com

Nantucket’s UPS STORE is in spacious quarters at 61 Old South Road and offers a variety of products and services to make your life easier: personal mailboxes, mail forwarding, UPS shipping and receiving, overnight delivery, and more. THE UPS STORE offers a wide variety of copy and print services, including b&w and color copies, output from disks, wide format printing, laminating, collating, and a full range of finishing services. You can even go there for notary services, passport photos, and mail boxes. THE UPS STORE makes high quality, full color banners and posters! Plenty off-street parking. THE UPS STORE: let them help you!

Cranberry Products Aunt Leah’s Fudge Open daily Made fresh on Nantucket

508-228-1017 The Courtyard, 16 Straight Wharf

Stop in AUNT LEAH’S for a taste of her delicious homemade fudge. Choose from more than 30 flavors of “the best fudge in the world.” Try her famous Nantucket Chocolate Covered Cranberries. AUNT LEAH’S Nantucket chocolate-covered cranberries, both milk and dark chocolate, are not only delicious, but also are loaded with antioxidants proven to have health benefits!

Both make unique wedding favors, gifts for special events, or take-home gifts. Several of her other delicious cranberry creations are only available seasonally, so stop by her Nantucket shop to see what AUNT LEAH has available today. auntleahs.com

Digital Guide to Nantucket

Hospital Thrift Shop

508-228-1125

Mon., Wed., Fri. 10am-12:30pm & 1-3:30pm Tues. & Thurs. 1-3:30pm & Sat. 10am-12:30pm Clothing, housewares, furniture & more

All New Insiders Guide to Nantucket

17 India Street

Beaches, Events, Museums, Biking, Classifieds, & More Visit us online & follow us on Instagram @nantucket_insider Visit Nantucket before & after you visit Nantucket!

In 1929, a small group of dedicated women volunteers established the Thrifty Shop, selling affordable, recycled men, women and children clothing, household items and furniture to benefit the Nantucket Cottage Hospital. Now incorporated as THE HOSPITAL THRIFT SHOP this store has donated millions to the NCH. Shopping hours in May are Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 10 am to 12:30 pm & 1-3:30 pm and Tuesday & Thursday 1-3:30 pm, and Saturday 10 am to 12:30 pm. hospitalthriftshop.org

The Rainbow Fleet

508-680-1159 167 Orange Street

Open Monday-Saturday 10am to 5pm Clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories

Shop sustainably at THE RAINBOW FLEET, Nantucket’s year round women’s consignment boutique located mid-island near the rotary. We carefully select the best vintage, modern and designer pieces from over 450 island consignors, and steam-clean them into new life daily! From clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories to one of a kind finds from local artists, you can find your own style in our relaxed atmosphere—complete with outdoor covered shopping, dressing rooms, and, yes, ample parking! We aim to provide sustainable and affordable fashion options for all… great for the planet and your wallet too! Follow us on Instagram @therainbowfleet therainbowfleetnantucket.com

Contests ACK Happy Summer Contest Win a $100 gift card to Cisco Brewers ENTER TODAY: Deadline is July 13, 2026

Instagram.com/nantucket_insider

YOU COULD WIN $100 gift card to spend at Cisco Brewers.

1. Like the ACK Happy post 2. Comment what you like best about Nantucket 2. Tag 3 Friends 3. Enter each time you see the ACK Happy post to increase your chances of winning!

508-228-9165

Visit the newly redesigned INSIDERS’ GUIDE TO NANTUCKET: NANTUCKET.NET for island events beach listings, biking info & maps, plus info about our island’s lighthouses, festivals, parks & trails, lodging, dining, theatre, watersports, recreation, and so much more. Our photo galleries have stunning images of Nantucket. Our Calendar of Events is the most complete and is updated several times a week, year-round. Looking for a beach? Our Beach Listings have photos, videos, and info about all the best island beaches and where to find them. Visit Nantucket before, during, and after you visit Nantucket by going to Nantucket.net ~ sign up for our free Nantucket eNewsletter, and follow us on Instagram @nantucket_insider Nantucket.net

Fishing Charters Herbert T. Daily: 7am, 10am, 1pm, 4pm. Call for Reservations Trolling “Catch those Blues and Bass!”

Day: 508-228-6655 Slip 14, Straight Wharf

Make sure you don’t miss the fishing while you’re here on Nantucket! The HERBERT T sport fishing boat will take you to where the blues are biting. Captain Fred Tonkin is an experienced fisherman and will provide you with all the equipment for up to six people to fish at one time.

He takes four 2-1/2-hour trips a day: 7 am, 10 am, 1 pm and 4 pm, and the fishing starts just 15 minutes from the dock. The HERBERT T is fully licensed and insured and is fully equipped electronically. While you’re on Nantucket, do as the islanders do - catch some blues! $150 per person (minimum of 2 people). Private charters are also available for $650 - up to 6 persons. fishnantucket.net

Steve Tuna’s Fishing Adventures Book a Trip Online Nantucket Beach Fishing Trips Want to see Nantucket from a very different and unique perspective and, perhaps, catch some fish? Join local guide Steve Tuna for an exploration of Nantucket’s amazing coastline as you fish for bluefish, striped bass, false albacore and bonito. Steve is an avid fisherman who will take you to places that most island visitors never get to see. Get up bright and early and fish

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping hard or go at your own pace and enjoy an unforgettable day at the beach – it’s your choice!

From the surf of the Nantucket south shore to the pristine beauty of Great Point, Steve Tuna will guide you on an amazing adventure! stevetuna.com

Gifts Hill’s of Nantucket Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm.

Unique & Original Nantucket Theme Gifts

508-228-1353 40 Straight Wharf

Established in 1981, HILL’S combines the best of Nantucket for the art and gift seeker. G.S. Hill Gallery and Hill’s of Nantucket offer fine art by Greg Hill and wonderful speciality gifts designed by this husband-and-wife team. Nantucket theme prints, note cards by Hill are their main focus. American made; that hard-to-find gift is here waiting for you! Treat yourself to a unique gift gallery from HILL’S. Est. 1981 gshill.com

It’s A Shore Thing

508-680-1901 30B Main Street

Open Daily Distinctive Nantucket Gifts

At IT’S A SHORE THING, we are proud to carry products made in New England. Come in and browse through our wide selection of gifts including lotion, soaps, jewelry, pottery, antiques, housewares, tote bags, art, and home decor. You can find unusual gifts at all prices in A SHORE THING that you’ll find nowhere else! shorethinggifts.com

Museum Shop at the Whaling Museum 508-228-1894, ext. 138 Open during museum hours: 10am-5pm in the Whaling Museum, 11 Broad Street NHA exclusives, gifts, apparel, books, home decor The Nantucket Historical Association has been a steward of Nantucket’s cultural history since 1894. Don’t miss the MUSEUM SHOP at the Whaling Museum, where you will find unique gifts, books, prints, maps, and objects of art inspired by Nantucket history. Many items are exclusive to the MUSEUM SHOP, and NHA members get special discounts. 100% of all purchases support the Nantucket Historical Association and its mission to tell the inspiring stories of Nantucket through its collections, programs, and properties. nantucketmuseumshop.org

Healing Practitioners White Feather Pure Healing

508-776-6939

Home Decor Arrowhead Nursery & Furniture Where Home & Garden Meet - Patio Furniture in stock!

Outdoor & Indoor Furniture, Home Accessories, Garden Needs

Health Care Cottage Pharmacy Open daily New community pharmacy servicing Nantucket

508-825-7300 10 Vesper Lane

NANTUCKET COTTAGE HOSPITAL continues to expand its services provided to the residents and visitors of Nantucket. Located just across the street from the hospital, this new pharmacy will provide patients with greater convenience and continuity of care while sustaining an important community resource. Nantucket Cottage Hospital’s new community pharmacy—the Cottage Pharmacy—is open to everyone in the community, not only patients of NCH. Nantuckethospital.org/pharmacy

Nantucket Cottage Hospital 24-hr emergency services, hospital care, lab, rehab Medical Care & Urgent Access

508-825-8100 57 Prospect St

NANTUCKET COTTAGE HOSPITAL has been caring for our island community. In addition to excellent physicians and nursing staff, the hospital has a 24-hour Emergency Department, full laboratory, physical therapy, cardiac rehab, chemotherapy, surgical services, imaging services, maternity services, and much more. Through Mass General Brigham, NANTUCKET COTTAGE HOSPITAL offers high-quality virtual urgent care services for many conditions and minor injuries daily. NCH URGENT ACCESS is open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm & Saturdays 8 am-3pm.

Details at nantuckethospital.org/urgentaccess Nantuckethospital.org

508-228-1961 9 Wampanoag Way

ARROWHEAD NURSERY & FURNITURE is the largest furniture showroom on island featuring indoor furniture, outdoor, home décor and more. Stop by their location near the airport, and browse through their wide variety of home accessories, including decorative items, table settings, indoor furniture, and unique gifts. Their garden center has a fabulous selection of plants, flowers, pottery, fountains, statues, garden structures, and garden accessories. ARROWHEAD NURSERY & SHOWROOM...where home and garden meet. www.arrowheadnursery.com arrowheadfurniture.com

Icarus + Co Open Daily Jewelry and Home Decor

19 Old South Wharf

Discover unique sculptural jewelry by local artists. We interpret nature through wearable art, handmade in small batches using uncommon and precious materials – including our exclusive collection of Nantucket beach stone jewelry. Follow along on instagram for a behind the scenes look: @icarusandco + @nantucketbeachstones. icarusandco.com

It’s A Shore Thing

508-680-1901 30B Main Street

Open Daily Distinctive Nantucket Gifts

At IT’S A SHORE THING, we are proud to carry products made in New England. Come in and browse through our wide selection of quality items for your home, including pottery, antiques, housewares, serving plates & trays, pillows, art, decorative wall hangings, and much more. You can also find unusual gifts at all prices in A SHORE THING that you’ll find nowhere else! shorethinggifts.com

Island Apps Call Nantucket Your telephone book for Nantucket

FREE download for IOS and Android

Know who you want to call but need their phone number? Search by name on CALL NANTUCKET. Know what you want but not where to get it? Search by category on the up-to-date and locally produced CALL NANTUCKET app. This app is free to download and easy to use.

Both white pages and yellow pages are included. callnantucket.com

Jewelry

Schedule an Appointment Online Illuminating Ways to Healing Kim LaRue is a passionate holistic and energy healing practitioner, specializing in Reiki, Craniosacral Therapy, and Reflexology. Her gentle, intuitive sessions calm the nervous system, release energetic blockages, and support body, mind, and spirit. Through White Feather Pure Healing, Kim guides clients toward restored balance, wellness, and a deeper inner connection with their inner healing. whitefeatherpurehealing.com

July 2-8, 2026

Blue Beetle Open Daily Jewelry & Gifts

508-228-3227 12 Main Street

Located at 12 Main Street, BLUE BEETLE reflects the playfulness and elegance of island living.

We strive to provide a collection of carefully curated clothing, jewelry, gifts and accessories that portray the summer lifestyle on Nantucket. The boutique is filled with modern, chic, and contemporary fashions to suit every occasion. We proudly sell Joules, Jude Connally, Captiva Cashmere, Lilla P and MZ Wallace. Known for our Nantucket Jewelry, there is something for everyone; beads to fit Pandora, rings, bracelets and of course our charm bar, where you can create your own unique island necklace. Shop year round in store or visit us online at BlueBeetleNantucket.com

Icarus + Co. Open Daily Jewelry and Home Decor

19 Old South Wharf

Discover unique sculptural jewelry by local artists. We interpret nature through wearable art, handmade in small batches using uncommon and precious materials – including our exclusive collection of Nantucket beach stone jewelry. Follow along on instagram for a behind the scenes look: @icarusandco + @nantucketbeachstones. icarusandco.com

Jewelers’ Gallery of Nantucket Visit us online Fine Antique & Estate Jewelry

508-228-0229 21 Centre Street

JEWELERS’ GALLERY offers Nantucket’s largest collection of antique and estate jewelry, including pieces by Tiffany, Cartier, Webb, and more. Until we can reopen, visit us online to see our exquisite island classics, including the Turk’s Head braided bracelet, Nautical Cable Collections, gem-set Sailors’ Valentines, and handwoven gold lightship basket jewelry. Also featured at JEWELERS’ GALLERY is an outstanding collection of beautifully designed jewelry by such leading goldsmiths as Ronald Pearson, Michael Good, Thomas Kruskal, and others. Call us for details. JEWELERS’ GALLERY has been serving Nantucket since 1971. thejewelersgallery.com

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping The Love Shack by Lola Open daily Handcrafted sterling pendants, bracelets, jewelry, & more!

774-325-5982 10 Old South Wharf

THE LOVE SHACK is welcoming back customers to their shop on Old South Wharf. AND your favorite items are also available online at lolacompany.com. LOLA™ designs and creates beautiful sterling jewelry with inspirational messages on the back marking important moments in peoples lives. With more than 30 pendant designs varying in size and gorgeous colors, creating your own look is endless and addicting. THE LOVE SHACK is home to our entire jewelry collection and is inspiration for our apparel, candles, hats, and more. Everything you need for your very own Love Shack! lolacompany.com

Nantucket Estate Jewelry and Fine Arts Open for the 2026 season. Great gifts that sparkle!

Jewelry, Lightship Baskets, Art, Scrimshaw, & more

508-228-0272 1 Orange Street

We feature fine estate jewelry in all price ranges - antique, vintage, and contemporary - including designers such as Tiffany, Cartier, Bulgari, Roberto Coin, and David Yurman. We also sell sterling silver jewelry and flatware and hollowware. We also carry a large assortment of Nantucket baskets and carved Nantucket purses, as well as a fine selection of antique scrimshaw.

We stock an assortment of quality art work, including antique paintings, nautical items, maps, and island works by local artists. Follow us @Nantucket_Jewelry Nantucketestatejewelry.com

Nantucket Pearl Company

508-228-1353 Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm online & in the G.S. Hill Gallery, 40 Straight Wharf American made, hand-strung pearl jewelry

Authentic American-made jewelry from quality pearls at affordable prices. Jewelry designer Pam Freitus creates stunning one-of-a-kind jewelry from hand-selected pearls, stones, leather, crystals and glass. On some pieces, pearls are interspersed with turquoise and crystals or sapphire and diamond bling enhances the soft shimmer of the pearl’s whiteness. On others, the Ying & Yang of black and white is featured. Look for Pam’s signature: a small red bead that identifies the piece as hers. NANTUCKET PEARL COMPANY jewelry is available exclusively at Hill’s of Nantucket, 40 Straight Wharf. Est. 2004 nantucketpearlcompany.com

Pageo

508-228-6899 Open Daily 46 Main Street

Beautiful Things Are Worth Discovering Elizabeth Moore Trunk Show July 9-11

Step into PAGEO JEWELERS Nantucket and discover fine jewelry that captures the spirit of summer. From timeless diamonds to colorful gemstones and distinctive designer collections, every visit offers something new to explore. Stop by our boutique this season and experience exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and exclusive events and trunk shows. pageo.com

Susan Lister Locke Gallery Open Daily Inspired and Creative Jewelry

508-228-2132 & 508-221-0531 28A Easy Street

Inspired by the ocean that surrounds her, be it in her Gallery on Nantucket or her winter home in Palm Beach Florida, Jewelry Designer, Susan Lister Locke creates highly sought after, unique jewelry using beautiful, and oftentimes rare, gemstones set in high karat gold & platinum. Her creations – from classic signet rings to one-of-a-kind necklaces – offer a fresh perspective on timeless jewelry, with the ultimate goal of always being highly wearable. Susan Lister Locke designs for all of life’s beautiful moments – the big and small, the ordinary and extraordinary.

Follow @susanlisterlockejeweler susanlisterlocke.com

The Trinity Collection Open for the summer season Classic timepieces: vintage & contemporary

508-228-7557 50 Main Street

THE TRINITY COLLECTION. Our shop offers an extensive collection of fine timepieces—classic designs with superb Swiss watchmaking. We specialize in fine watches such as: Franck Muller, Patek Philippe, Vacheron & Constantin, Cartier, Chronoswiss, Audemars, Graham, Panerai, Ulysse Nardin, Pierre Kunz, U Boat, and Rolex—vintage and contemporary. We also offer fine jewelry, contemporary and estate. We take trades and are always looking to purchase timepieces. Follow us @palmbeachnantucket

Library & Public Programs Nantucket Atheneum Open year-round. Books, Programs for All Ages, Concerts, & More Nantucket’s Free Public Library & Gathering Place

508-228-1110 1 India Street

THE NANTUCKET ATHENEUM, our island’s public library is a vital community hub. We are open year-round and offer materials and services for all ages. More than 170,000 people come through our doors annually, where they have free access to 1.6 million books and a large collection of CDs, and DVDs. In addition, we offer many web-based services, a digital library, free computer use, WIFI, and more than 1,300 educational and cultural programs a year. Our historic

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building, which opened in 1847, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and filled with beautiful art and artifacts that celebrate our maritime heritage and the history of Nantucket. nantucketatheneum.org

Maritime Education & Events Egan Maritime Institute

508-228-2505

Honoring the Past & Investing in the Future EGAN MARITIME INSTITUTE promotes and preserves Nantucket’s maritime traditions. We strive to ensure that our Island’s culture and community continue to be shaped by its seafaring legacy.

We achieve this through year-round programs and offerings in the classroom, at the museum, and on the water. We envision a Nantucket where every resident and visitor experiences the Island’s rich maritime history and culture, and where future generations of Nantucketers will be inspired to explore maritime-focused learning and career opportunities. eganmaritime.org

Mortgages Cape Cod 5

888-225-4636 112 Pleasant Street and Zero Main Street

Open Monday-Friday We’ll make your dream come true!

CAPE COD FIVE will give you more than just a mortgage... they’ll help make your dream come true! Fixed Rate, Adjustable Rate, Jumbo Loans, Affordable Housing, Construction & Land Loans for first time home buyers. Our knowledgeable, experienced mortgage loan officers are available to help you. Call Beth Ann Meehan at 508-247-1709 or Lauren Ard at 508-247-1795 or visit our website at CapeCodFive.com capecodfive.com

Movies, Concerts, Celebrations The Dreamland

See Our Website for Films & Events 17 South Water Street

Nantucket’s Film & Cultural Center Films, Concerts, Celebrations, & Events

THE NANTUCKET DREAMLAND is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural and intellectual life of Nantucket by providing year-round films, educational programs, and a venue for community activities that engage Nantucket in the evolving world of entertainment and education. Films are shown in our 314-seat Main Theatre, in our 110-seat Studio Theatre, and seasonally at our Drive-In at 7 Nobadeer Farm Road. Tickets are available at NantucketDreamland.org. Become a member and get special access, special pricing, and even free tickets!

Check our schedule for film showings, Dreamland Stage productions, special concerts & events in the DREAMLAND’s Harbor View Room.

NantucketDreamland.org

Museums & Sites Maria Mitchell Association Summer Programs for All

508-228-9198 Science center, aquarium, museums, & field trips

The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell who believed in “learning by doing.” The MMA operates 2 observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and historyrelated programming is offered through the year for people of all ages. mariamitchell.org

Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum

508-228-1885

Mon.-Fri. from 10am to 5pm; Sat. from 10am to 2pm drive or take a free shuttle to 158 Polpis Road Maritime Education, History, Museum, Programs, Events & more Founded in 1968 as the first museum in America dedicated to honoring volunteer and professional lifesavers, the NANTUCKET SHIPWRECK & LIFESAVING MUSEUM preserves the heroic stories of Islanders who risked their lives to rescue mariners in peril at sea. These stories span from the early Massachusetts Humane Society through the U.S. Life-Saving Service and into the modern U.S. Coast Guard. This year, they’re unveiling an updated exhibit on Madaket Millie and Marshall the Sea Dog, along with a refreshed exhibit on the wreck of the Andrea Doria.

The rotating featured exhibit, From Hard Times to Boom Times: Nantucket Waterfront, is also on view for one final season. Visit the Museum for tours, programs, events, and hands-on familyfriendly activities from Memorial Day through Indigenous Peoples Day. Need a ride? Take the FREE Shipwreck Shuttle on Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays from 9:45 am to 2:45 pm, from June 22 - October 9. Find out more at eganmaritime.org

Nantucket Whaling Museum

508-228-1894 Admission $25; 65+ & Students $23; Ages 6-17 $10; under 6 free 15 Broad Street Island residents & NHA members admitted free Your portal to Nantucket history.

No trip to Nantucket is complete without a trip to the NANTUCKET WHALING MUSEUM . In this top-quality exhibition venue, visitors can see a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton, a restored 1847 candle factory, exquisite collections of scrimshaw, artwork, artifacts from centuries of Nantucket life, and a fully accessible rooftop observation deck with an unmatched panoramic view and cozy seating. Discover treasures from Nantucket’s cellars and attics in the newly redesigned, artifact-rich Hadwen & Barney Oil & Candle Factory. Don’t miss the film “Nantucket,” directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ric Burns. Showcasing the island’s natural beauty

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping and its significant role in global history, this 51-minute film is a feast for the eyes, offering a transformative experience for islanders and visitors alike. All this and more can be found at the Nantucket Whaling Museum. nha.org

NHA Sites

508-228-1894 15 Broad Street

Your portal to Nantucket history Historic Sites, Classes, Talks, & more

The Nantucket Historical Association preserves, interprets, and shares the diverse stories of Nantucket with all audiences through its collections, properties, programs, and research. In addition to the Nantucket Whaling Museum, the public is invited to visit THE OLDEST HOUSE, built in 1686 and believed to be the oldest residence on Nantucket still on its original site; THE OLD MILL, said to have been built in 1746, this is the only surviving mill of 5 that once stood overlooking Nantucket town; THE HADWEN HOUSE, a Greek Revival mansion built in 1846; GREATER LIGHT, a stunning and unique home that was built as a barn in 1790 and renovated & repurposed in the 1930s into a home that illustrates the era of Nantucket’s art colony days. Learn more about these sites and the others that the NHA keeps open for visitors at nha.org

Nursery Arrowhead Nursery & Furniture Where Home & Garden Meet Outdoor & Indoor Furniture, Home Accessories, Garden Needs

508-228-1961 9 Wampanoag Way

Pet Accessories & Gifts COLD NOSES serves all your pet needs on Nantucket! Your favorite island pet boutique offers a wide variety of toys, treats, accessories, and necessities for your pets. Exclusive signature Nantucket collars and leashes feature different iconic island designs, including lighthouses, lobsters, whales, shells, baskets, and anchors. We have lots of toys for your four-legged friends, and for humans who love pets, we have fun gifts and ornaments. Stop in if you forget a critical pet item, if you are looking for that distinctive pet-themed Nantucket keepsake or a special something for a pet or pet person. Our pet services tailored with love include: Dog Wash and Pet Equipment Rentals. nantucketpetstore.com

Special Events Boston Pops on Nantucket August 8, 2026: gate opens at 4:30 pm Annual Concert on Jetties Beach

at Jetties Beach

YACHTLY CREW, a highly popular American band that specializes in “yacht rock” — the smooth, feel-good soft rock of the late 1970s and early 1980s, will take the stage as the special musical guest at the 2026 annual Boston Pops on Nantucket. Known as the “Titans of Soft Rock,” the seven-piece group is famed for their vibrant, highly energetic, and campy live performances.

Back again as the annual feature is the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra. Tickets are on sale now at nantuckethospital.org — General Admission Adults $30; Kids $10 (under age 5 are admitted free). For special reserved seating, call 508-825-8250. nantuckethospital.org

DreamBIG 2026 Benefit for The Nantucket Dreamland Fundraiser on July 17

508-228-4305 Tickets at theatrenantucket.org

Join THEATRE WORKSHOP of Nantucket for an unforgettable summer evening in support of Theatre Workshop of Nantucket—a night filled with delicious food and drinks, great company, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the enduring importance of live theatre on Nantucket. The evening culminates in a thrilling live concert by Killer Queen, delivering the electrifying music of Queen with all the power, precision, and theatrical flair you’d expect. Sing along to iconic anthems, feel the energy, and let the music remind us why—“We are the champions”—when a community rallies around the arts. It’s a night to come together, raise a glass, and celebrate the magic that happens when theatre brings us all together and lifts us higher.

TWN’s 70th Season as the island’s professional theatre. theatrenantucket.org

Luminary Award Dinner July 10, 2026 from 6 to 10 pm Benefit For Nantucket’s Free Public Library & Gathering Place

508-228-1110 1 India Street

The Nantucket Atheneum introduces the Luminary Award Dinner, a new summer fundraiser that blends timeless elegance with the vibrant charm of Nantucket Island. The evening opens with a festive cocktail hour and lively mingling, followed by a seated dinner designed to spark connection and conversation. Guests will experience engaging remarks, meaningful tributes, and an inspiring keynote address by acclaimed island author Nathaniel Philbrick. Details & tickets at nantucketatheneum.org/LuminaryAward nantucketatheneum.org

Thursday, July 24 at 6 pm An incredible night under the stars

508-228-9198 Tickets on sale now!

Saddle up for a Night at the MM Ranch and embark on a Wild West adventure—Nantucket style at the 2025 Stargazer Gala! Savor a fireside feast, sip on ranch water & smooth whiskey sours, and enjoy an evening of stargazing on the Nantucket frontier. Kick up your boots and dance the night away at our honky-tonk, featuring live music by country music sensation, the Ben Allen Band. Maria Mitchell Association’s annual Stargazer Gala is an exceptional evening, with all proceeds directly supporting their public programs and summer Internship Program.

Secure your Table Packages and tickets today before this unforgettable adventure rides off into the sunset. This is one night you won’t want to miss! mariamitchell.org

Nantucket by Design

508-228-1894

July 13-16, 2026 - NEW this year: Designer Home Tours Premier Summer Design Event to Benefit NHA

508-228-3731 119 Pleasant Street

Nantucket’s Go-To Pet Paradise is open daily Tail-wagging Treasures & Pet Services with Love

Benefit on July 28, 2026 from 6-10 pm Nantucket’s Longest Running Professional Theatre

MMA Stargazer Gala

ARROWHEAD NURSERY & SHOWROOM has a spacious garden center with a fabulous selection of plants, flowers, pottery, fountains, statues, garden structures, and garden accessories. In addition, their indoor showroom carries the largest selection of indoor & outdoor furniture on the island, featuring teak, aluminum patio sets and more. Stop by their location near the airport, just beyond the Thai House restaurant, and browse through their wide variety of home accessories, including decorative items, table settings, indoor furniture, and unique gifts. ARROWHEAD NURSERY & SHOWROOM...where home and garden meet. arrowheadnursery.com

Cold Noses

Killer Queen Theatre Gala

July 2-8, 2026

See Our Website for Films & Events held in the Sconset Casino

THE DREAMLAND is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural and intellectual life of Nantucket by providing year-round films, educational programs, and a venue for community activities that engage Nantucket in the evolving world of entertainment and education. The annual DREAMBIG fundraiser will be held on July 17, 2026 in the Siasconset Casino. Guests will “Nantucket Royale,” and evening of gaming, glamour, and gratitude. Sponsorship opportunities are now available, and ticket packages will be on sale soon—don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary night!

NantucketDreamland.org

NANTUCKET BY DESIGN is an annual celebration of art, design, and history hosted by the Nantucket Historical Association on the charming island of Nantucket. The event brings together world-renowned designers, artisans, and skilled craftspeople to showcase the timeless elegance of Nantucket’s design heritage. Through panels, keynotes, master classes, social events, and more, participants experience how modern style is interwoven with Nantucket’s iconic history. The event benefits the Nantucket Historical Association, supporting its mission to preserve, interpret, and share the diverse stories of Nantucket with all audiences through its collections, properties, programs, and research. nantucketbydesign.com

Nantucket Comedy Festival July 8-11, 2026 Tickets & Passes On Sale NOW! Four Fun-Filled Days of Laughter

in the Dreamland Theatre

THE NANTUCKET COMEDY FESTIVAL is back on ACK for the 20th year! Four fun-filled days starting with ACK vs MVY Kids Comedy Smackdown: a free event in the Dreamland at 3:15 pm where you can cheer on the next generation of comedic talent. Women’s Night of Comedy, featuring nationally headlining female comedians is next. This event on July 9 is for ladies and gentlemen, so make it a date night or bring your friends. Friday, July 10, the fun starts with a screening of TOWNIE followed by a Q&A and continues at 6 pm with NCF Legends of Comedy.

The 2026 COMEDY FESTIVAL ends Saturday, July 11 with the every-popular Boston vs New York Comedy SmACKdown, as top comedians from Boston and New York go head-to-head with Emmy Award winner Bob Ley of ESPN as referee, keeping the punches funny and (mostly) above the belt. Get your tickets now at nantucketcomedy.com The Nantucket Comedy Festival is a non-profit organization that uses comedy to empower, engage, and inspire through its annual festival and the year-round Stand Up & Learn™ workshops. nantucketcomedy.com

Nantucket Dance Festival July 6-12, 2026: Events & Tickets online inspiring passion for movement and dance on the island A week-long celebration of dance with fundraising events that bring renowned dance & music artists to Nantucket for performance, education, & cultural events. The festival week for 2025 will include programming that emphasizes diverse styles of dance to bring together professionals and students while creating unexpected collaborations with musicians and visual artists. We thank you for being a part of the festival and our future! The festival supports yearround dance as part of Nantucket Dance Theater’s annual programming, with classes at the Boys and Girls Club of Nantucket, residencies, and performances that inspire cultural appreciation in young people. nantucketdancefestival.org

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Island Fun & Shopping Nantucket Firecracker 5K Registration Open Now for July 4th Event Jetties Beach, Bathing Beach Road runsignup.com/Race/MA/Nantucket/FirecrackerFiveK 5K Run and a 5K Competitive Walk The annual FIRECRACKER 5K starts and ends at Jetties Beach, with a scenic course through residential areas including Beach Street, the Cliff with the finish on Hulbert Ave and Bathing Beach Road. Free Official Race T-Shirt to the first 500 runners and walkers to pick up their numbers at Nantucket Health Club, 10 Young’s Way (508-228-4750). Pick up your timing chip and T-shirt on Thursday, July 3rd between 9 am to 6 pm to avoid the rush and have the best chance of receiving a proper size shirt. Race day sign up is at Jetties Beach starting at 6 am.

Run/Walk entry fee $50. Free T-shirt, age division prizes, refreshments.

Stargazer Circus

July 24, 25, & 26 + Opening Night Gala July 23 Tickets are on sale now: get yours, while they last! mariamitchell.org Maria Mitchell Association hosts Venardos Circus

The Maria Mitchell Association is bringing Venardos Circus to Nantucket this July 24, 25, & 26, with a very special Opening Night Gala at 6 pm on July 23. This Broadway-style traveling circus features world-class acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and comedians from around the globe.

Performances run approximately 90 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Concessions will be available. General admission tickets are on sale now at mariamitchell.org.All proceeds from the Stargazer Gala and the General Admission Stargazer Circus Family Performances support the MMA’s Internship Program, advancing its mission to inspire a lifelong passion for science through education, research, and hands-on exploration of Nantucket’s sky, land, and sea.

Swim Across America July 25, 2026 at Jetties Beach Relay Swim to Raise Funds to Fight Cancer

Women + Wellness July 20, 2026 from 5-7 pm Presented by Nantucket Cottage Hospital

508-825-8250 Held in the Great Harbor Yacht Club

annual Women+Wellness event was founded in 2017 by three dedicated Nantucket Cottage Hospital volunteers, Meryl Bralower, Melanie Sabelhaus and Jeanine Borthwick. Their goal was to lead an effort to empower women on Nantucket — both residents and visitors — to take charge of and advocate for their own healthcare. As women make 80% of the healthcare decisions in this country for themselves and their family members, W+W is an education-focused program to help women make the best decisions. A secondary goal is to educate the community about the resources available at Nantucket Cottage Hospital and its affiliation with the Mass General Brigham healthcare system. nantuckethospital.org

Theatre Theatre Workshop of Nantucket ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLA on stage to Aug 22 Nantucket’s Longest Running Professional Theatre

508-257-6557 Departures at approx. 10 am, 1 pm, & 3 pm Call for reservations & pickup Pickup at 25 Federal St, across from Information Bureau Personal scenic Island tours: voted “Best of Nantucket”

GAIL’S TOURS, tours of Nantucket guided by native islander Gail Johnson who has been giving tours for more than 25 years, gives you a look at the Island with a personal touch. Gail leads tours in her 14-passenger van with comfortable individual seats, AC, huge windows, and leg room! She’ll pick you up at 25 Federal Street approximately 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm every day.

The tour lasts 1-3/4 hours to 2 hours, and passengers are welcome at any time during Gail’s tour to get out to take photos. Private charters are available. Call for reservations: if Gail is on a tour, she’ll call you back.

Nantucket Island Tours

508-228-0334 3 Great Tours: Don’t miss our fantastic & fun Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour Nantucket’s Premiere Transportation Company 42 Straight Wharf

NANTUCKET ISLAND TOURS is the largest provider of tours, charters, & transportation services on-island. For more than 70 years, Nantucket Island Tours offers daily tours May-October, corporate charters, wedding & event transportation. Air-conditioned buses & experienced local guides. We offer multiple tours daily May-October: the new Elin Hilderbrand’s Blue Book Tour a 2-hour tour on Wed., Thurs., & Sun. featuring iconic island spots in Hilderbrand’s novels, led

by Elin’s sister ~ the 75-minute Signature Tour which departs 3 x a day ~ the longer 2-1/2-hour Westender Tour offered Mon.-Thurs. Learn the history of our diverse island, from the founders, the Whaling Days through the present. See the Oldest House, The Old Mill, The African American Meeting House, ‘Sconset Village, Sankaty Lighthouse, The Shipwreck Museum...and many more beautiful sights. Departures are from Straight Wharf. Buy tickets in advance at nantucketbustours.com, with your HyLine ferry ticket or in-person at 42 Straight Wharf. Tours sell out daily: advance reservations recommended. nantucketbustours.com

Tours - Walking Guided Walking Tours with NHA

508-228-1894

Walking Tours offered by Nantucket Historical Assoc. depart from Whaling Museum, 15 Broad St. At 10:45 am & 1:30 pm Mon.-Sat. Take a walk with the Nantucket Historical Association. Explore the ambiance of Nantucket’s cobbled streets and architecture with NHA guides trained in Nantucket history on the Downtown Tour at 10:45 am and at 1:30 pm. Tours begin at the Nantucket Whaling Museum Monday-Saturday from June through September, rain or shine. Tickets: $25 adults, $5 for ages 6 to 17; under 6 free. Whaling Museum, 13 Broad Street. Walking tours are offered daily. nha.org

Nantucket Walking Tours

774-325-8972 Ghost Walks, morning exercise walks + afternoon tours. Call for Private Tours Times & meeting spot in calendar Explore Nantucket: No reservations necessary

The ORIGINAL NANTUCKET GHOST WALK is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket.

A fascinating evening stroll to five of the island’s most haunted locations, led by the original guide. See Calendar of Events for date & times & descriptions. Meet the guide 10 min. early at the corner of Main & Centre sts, near the bank steps. Discounts for groups of 10 or more.

Cash only. No reservations necessary. Private tours are available for all walks. It’s a great way to see and enjoy springtime on Nantucket. whjamieson@gmail.com

Transportation Boat 508-228-4305 Tickets at theatrenantucket.org

THEATRE WORKSHOP of Nantucket has been the island’s live theatre company since 1956.

On stage July 9-August 22, ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE brings the beloved songs of Jimmy Buffett to life in a tropical romantic comedy filled with laughter, heart, and over-the-top fun.

Set sail for paradise in this high-spirited jukebox musical where the sun is hot, the drinks are cold, and the music is pure island magic. Get your tickets today at theatrenantucket.org! TWN: Where Nantucket Meets Broadway! theatrenantucket.org

Tours - Bus & Van Barrett’s Tours

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Gail’s Tours, Inc.

Jetties Beach

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA began as a relay swim from Nantucket to Hyannis and has evolved into 16 open water swims and dozens of pool swims around the country. We are continuing the tradition of SAA on Nantucket with another swim this July 25, 2026! Join swimmers at a gorgeous venue for a day to remember this July and be a part of this landmark event this summer! Kids’ Splash, 1/4-mile, 1/2-mile, and 1-mile swim options, plus 2x2-mile relay and 4-mile swim options on Nantucket’s north shore. Register for OR donate to the Nantucket Open Water Swim at swimacrossamerica.org/nantucket

July 2-8, 2026

Hy-Line

508-228-3949

Travel daily; see schedule for times Make your reservations online High-Speed, Passenger-Only, Ferry Service from Hyannis

Straight Wharf

hylinecruises.com Year-round, High-Speed Ferry Service between Nantucket and Hyannis. Seasonal, High-Speed Inter-Island Ferry Service between Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. With our convenient, daily departures all summer, let us whisk you away to the Cape, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard!

While onboard, enjoy freshly-made food from our snack bar also featuring local beer, wine, and spirits. Visit us online for schedules, reservations, helpful blog posts, & more!

Steamship Authority Reservations: steamshipauthority.com 508-228-0174

1-1/2 hr tour; departs daily at 10:30am, 1:30 pm, & 3:30 pm Private charters available departs from 25 Federal St BARRETT’S TOURS is the oldest tour company on Nantucket. With years of experience in the industry, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service & unforgettable experiences.

BARRETT’S offers 1-1/2 hour historic tours with experienced guides daily from 25 Federal Street (across from the Visitors Center) at 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. Our team of professionals is committed to ensuring your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. Whether you’re exploring the historic scenic beauty of Nantucket, celebrating a special occasion, or planning your dream wedding, we have the perfect transportation solution for you. Trust Barrett’s Tours to make your travel experience truly remarkable. For more information and reservations, please call 508-228-0174.

BarrettsTours.com

508-228-0262 1 Steamboat Wharf

Watches Trinity Collection Open for the summer season Classic timepieces: vintage & contemporary

508-228-7557 50 Main Street

THE TRINITY COLLECTION. Our shop offers an extensive collection of fine timepieces—classic designs with superb Swiss watchmaking. We specialize in fine watches such as: Franck Muller, Patek Philippe, Vacheron & Constantin, Cartier, Chronoswiss, Audemars, Graham, Panerai, Ulysse Nardin, Pierre Kunz, U Boat, and Rolex—vintage and contemporary. We also offer fine jewelry, contemporary and estate. We take trades and are always looking to purchase timepieces. Follow us @palmbeachnantucket

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Live Entertainment

Dining Guide

Cisco Brewers Live Music & tasty libations Live Entertainment Is Back - check website for schedule

Bakeries Nantucket Bake Shop

508-228-2797 Mon 6:30 am to 1:30 pm; Tues-Sat.: 6:30 am to 3 pm 17-1/2 Old South Road The delicious freshly baked treats & bread you love + Gluten-Free goodies!

In the NANTUCKET BAKE SHOP you’ll find genuine Portuguese bread & rolls & be tempted by our world-famous almond macaroons and fresh donuts. For breakfast, try our muffins, scones, & danish accompanied by a steaming cup of Green Mountain coffee. We bake decorated cakes, fresh fruit tortes, cheesecake, chocolate velvets, and pastries. Everyday favorites include cookies, fruit squares, turnovers, fudge squares, pies, cupcakes, & more! Our traditional baked goods are preservative free and hand batched on Nantucket Island. Most of our cookies and our granola are gluten free. Take our Portuguese bread home so your friends can enjoy a bit of old Nantucket.

Nantucketbakeshop.com

Brewers Cisco Brewers Open 7 Days a Week Home of Cisco Brewers, Nantucket Vineyard, and 888

508-325-5929 5 Bartlett Farm Road

CISCO BREWERS is Nantucket’s first & only craft brewery and prides itself on celebrating a deep-rooted New England island heritage through its portfolio of approachable, sessionable, and coastally-inspired beers. Founded near Cisco Beach in 1995 by hard-working, entrepreneurial islanders, CISCO BREWERS has gained a cult-like following across the Northeast. Visit its open-air beer garden while on Nantucket to enjoy a laid-back, good times atmosphere, live music, and a refreshing pint or two or a craft cocktail made with our own 888. Private tours may be arranged in advance. Table seating is first-come, first-served — reservations are not accepted. Family & dog-friendly. ciscobrewers.com

Light Food & Take-Out 45 Surfside Bakery & Cafe Breakfast & lunch daily Take out or eat in our dining room or outdoor patio

774-333-3981 45 Surfside Road

Enjoy award-winning pastry chef/owner Rebecca Moesinger’s delicious pastries, hearty breakfasts, and tasty lunches at 45 SURFSIDE BAKERY & CAFE. You can enjoy breakfast & lunch daily from 6:30am until 2pm in their air-conditioned dining room or on their outdoor patio.

In addition to burritos, breakfast sandwiches, salads, and hot & cold subs and wraps, they serve bubbly delights and refreshing smoothies. Order online from the QR code in our ad. 45 SURFSIDE BAKERY & CAFÉ is located along Surfside Road on your way to the beach. We have plenty of parking and are a few steps from an NRTA bus stop.

45Surfside.com

Bartlett’s Farm 508-228-9403 Open Daily, Year Round 33 Bartlett Farm Road Farm Grown Produce | Garden Center | Groceries | Beer & Wine Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner To Go A 7th generation family farm growing fresh vegetables on 200 acres of historic Nantucket farm land. Find our full service grocery store onsite with specialty items like quality meats, artisanal cheeses and dairy, olive oils, organic snacks, and more. Order groceries and made to order foods online at Bartlettsfarm.com. Peruse our selection of ‘well-farmed’ wines, craft beers and ciders. Our FARM KITCHEN offers take-out breakfast sandwiches, muffins, pastries, coffee and tea…for lunch we have sandwiches, lobster rolls, clam chowder. . .and delicious dinner specials. Grab lunch on your way to the beach, or food and beverages for your BBQ on the way home. Bartlett’s Farm, Who’s Your Farmer? bartlettsfarm.com

Cook’s Cafe Open Daily 10 am to 3 pm Healthy Take Out — Wraps & Smoothies

July 2-8, 2026

508-228-8810 6 South Beach Street

COOK’S CAFE is the way to eat healthy while you’re on Nantucket. Start your day right with one of their breakfast wraps, a toasted bagel, and a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing breakfast smoothie. Their Mermaid Magic Smoothie is a great way to start your day! For lunch or later, order one of COOK’S hearty wraps—there are more than 15 to choose from in two sizes, and they also have vegan specialties! All wraps are affordably priced. Go international with the “Bangkok Chicken Wrap,” the “Tokyo Curry Wrap,” the “Napoleon,” or try one of their tasty Bowls. They also have some classics: Italian, Turkey, Tuna Salad, Buffalo Chicken, and more!

COOK’s smoothies make a terrific afternoon snack. You can call in or order online at cookscafenantucket.com

508-325-5929 5 Bartlett Farm Road

ciscobrewers.com CISCO BREWERS is Nantucket’s first & only craft brewery and prides itself on celebrating a deeprooted New England island heritage through its portfolio of approachable, sessionable, and coastally-inspired beers. Founded near Cisco Beach in 1995 by hard-working, entrepreneurial islanders, CISCO BREWERS has gained a cult-like following across the Northeast. Visit its open-air beer garden while on Nantucket to enjoy a laid-back, good times atmosphere, live music, and a refreshing pint or two or a craft cocktail made with our own 888. Private tours may be arranged in advance. Table seating is first-come, first-served — reservations are not accepted.

The Fairgrounds Open Daily: Dine In or Take Out + Bar Open All Day Affordable Family Dining & Fun

508-228-4095 27 Fairgrounds Road

nantucketfairgrounds.com THE FAIRGROUNDS is the place to be for good food, good vibes, & good times! Situated on two acres on the way to Nobadeer and Surfside beaches, Fairgrounds offers indoor and outdoor dining and ample green space for frolicking. Two outdoor bars serving some of the best cocktails on island, including our famous frozen margarita. Yard games from badminton to cornhole to subsoccer for kids young and old. We even make our own fluffy Hawaiian shave ice and Filipino halo halo. Our menu proudly features Nantucket-sourced ingredients and offers something for everyone both for dine in and take out: clam chowder, Big Pete’s double smash burger, Fish Tacos, crisp salads with island greens, and much more! We even make our own dough and fresh mozzarella for delicious artisanal pizza. Oh, did we mention we also have live music?

Follow us @nantucketfairgrounds to stay up-to-date on all the happenings at The Fairgrounds.

Markets Bartlett’s Farm Open Daily, Year Round Farm Grown Produce | Garden Center | Groceries | Beer & Wine Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner To Go

508-228-9403 Bartlett Farm Road

A 7th generation family farm growing fresh vegetables on 200 acres of historic Nantucket farm land. Find our full service grocery store onsite with specialty items like quality meats, artisanal cheeses and dairy, olive oils, organic snacks, and more. Order groceries and made to order foods online at Bartlettsfarm.com. Peruse our selection of ‘well-farmed’ wines, craft beers and ciders. Our Farm kitchen offers take-out breakfast sandwiches, muffins, pastries, coffee and tea…for lunch we have sandwiches, lobster rolls, clam chowder...and delicious dinner specials. Grab lunch on your way to the beach, or food and beverages for your BBQ on the way home. Bartlett’s Farm, Who’s Your Farmer? bartlettsfarm.com

Night Life The Brotherhood of Thieves

774-325-5812 23 Broad Street

Open 7 days a week 11:30 am to midnight Good food. Good drinks. Good company.

Whether you are a first-time or returning visitor to Nantucket, THE BROTHERHOOD OF THIEVES, 23 Broad Street, must be on your To Do List! This landmark island eatery, offers 4 concepts to enjoy—a downstairs pub echoing a 1840s Whaling tavern, a second floor Cisco Kitchen & Bar with a surf shack vibe and live music, the Notch Whiskey Bar, and a Beer Garden on their patio—all in the heart of downtown Nantucket. Upstairs in their Cisco Surf Bar, they have live music most nights. brotherhoodnantucket.com

NobaBar

508 228-6900

Open Tuesday-Sunday from 3 to 10 pm Cozy Cocktail Lounge in the Nantucket Inn

nantucketinn.net/dining

1 Miller Lane, in The Nantucket Inn

Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up, an evening cocktail, or a nightcap before bed, NobaBar is the perfect place for refreshments and snacks. Located in The Nantucket Inn, NobaBar is the ideal spot to gather with friends away from the crowds downtown.

Rose & Crown Open daily from 11:30 am Come for the Food, Stay for the Fun!

508-228-2595 23 South Water Street

Theroseandcrown.com THE ROSE & CROWN is a favorite among locals and visitors. We are Nantucket’s only Downtown Nightclub. Whether it’s live local music, guided paint nights, house DJs, big screens for games, or our notorious karaoke competitions, we have your entertainment needs covered. In-season, we have entertainment 7 days a week, with early and late-night options, so everyone has a chance to enjoy the fun. Check our website for off-season entertainment listings.

Restaurants The Brotherhood of Thieves Open 7 days a week 11:30 am to midnight Good food. Good drinks. Good company.

774-325-5812 23 Broad Street

brotherhoodnantucket.com Whether you are a first-time or returning visitor to Nantucket, THE BROTHERHOOD OF

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Dining Guide THIEVES, 23 Broad Street, must be on your To Do List! This landmark island eatery, offers 4 concepts to enjoy—a downstairs pub echoing a 1840s Whaling tavern, a second floor Cisco Kitchen & Bar with a surf shack vibe and live music, the Notch Whiskey Bar, and a Beer Garden on their patio—all in the heart of downtown Nantucket. THE BROTHERHOOD’s different menus feature fresh salads, sushi, hot & cold appetizers, nachos, hearty burgers & sandwiches, their famous curly fries, and entrees featuring fish, chicken, and steak. (Kitchen closes at 10pm.) To accompany your meal, THE BROTHERHOOD serves Cisco & other craft beers on draft, wines by the glass & by the bottle, and more than a dozen signature cocktails.

The Chanticleer Lunch & Dinner Tuesday-Sunday Reservations available on resy.com or 508.257.4499

508-257-4499 9 New Street, Siasconset

Originally opened as a small tea house at the turn of the century, THE CHANTICLEER is now one of the premier restaurants on Nantucket. One of the most romantic destinations on-island, you may linger here over an intimate lunch in the Rose Garden or come together with family and friends for a convivial dinner in one of our personal dining rooms: al fresco on warm evenings. The lush gardens produce organic herbs, flowers, berries, and seasonal vegetables for the kitchen. An extensive wine list features some of the finest wines in the world. Reservations are available on resy.com or by calling 508-257-4499 chanticleernantucket.com

The Fairgrounds Open Daily: Dine In or Take Out + Bar Open All Day Affordable Family Dining & Fun

508-228-4095 27 Fairgrounds Road

THE FAIRGROUNDS is the place to be for good food, good vibes, & good times! Situated on two acres on the way to Nobadeer and Surfside beaches, Fairgrounds offers indoor and outdoor dining and ample green space for frolicking. Two outdoor bars serving some of the best cocktails on island, including our famous frozen margarita. Yard games from badminton to cornhole to subsoccer for kids young and old. We even make our own fluffy Hawaiian shave ice and Filipino halo halo. Our menu proudly features Nantucket-sourced ingredients and offers something for everyone both for dine in and take out: clam chowder, Big Pete’s double smash burger, Fish Tacos, crisp salads with island greens, and much more! We even make our own dough and fresh mozzarella for delicious artisanal pizza. Oh, did we mention we also have live music?

Follow us @nantucketfairgrounds to stay up-to-date on all the happenings at The Fairgrounds. nantucketfairgrounds.com

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Nobadeer Café

508-228-6900 Open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM; Bar Open Tues-Sun from 3 to 10 pm 1 Miller Lane, in The Nantucket Inn A casual, family-friendly spot for dining in or take-out

The all-new NOBADEER CAFE is your laid-back island escape inside the freshly reimagined Nantucket Inn. Whether you’re up early after chasing the sunrise or rolling out of bed ready to fuel your beach day, we’ve got just what you need to start your morning off right—or keep it going strong. In addition to bold coffees, for breakfast we serve warm breakfast sandwiches, fresh fruit, bagels, and pastries. Our satisfying lunches include hearty salads, tasty bowls, hot flatbreads, and delicious clubs and paninis. And we have a kids’ menu for your little ones.

Whatever you’re after, NOBADEER CAFE is the perfect pit stop. nobadeercafe.com

Rose & Crown

508-228-2595 23 South Water Street

Open daily from 11:30 am Indoor & Outdoor Dining ~ Takeout Available

THE ROSE & CROWN is a perennial favorite of islanders and visitors. Stop by for one of the largest draft Craft Beer selections on the island and our scratch made Eclectic Pub Fare. We offer everything you could desire, including nachos and wings, sandwiches and our famous burgers, lobster rolls, local seafood, and mouth watering steaks, plus gluten-free and vegetarian options. Always family friendly with a children’s menu. Eat indoors or at our sidewalk tables.

And you can order online for takeout. Check theroseandcrown.com for current hours, menus, & daily specials. theroseandcrown.com

Wines & Spirits Mór Wine Open 10 am to 9 pm

Curated selection of wines & spirits 16 Federal Street

This new boutique bottle shop founded by Edwin Claflin, chef & owner of Oran Mór Bistro, in partnership with Eileen Harkness, proprietor of the resale boutique Commonwealth Nantucket.

Their goal is to enrich the island’s wine scene by offering a curated grower champagnes, unique spirits, and small-producer wines. From wine to whiskey, they have that bottle you’ve been looking for as well as the one you didn’t know you wanted. morwine.com

Nantucket Vineyard Open daily Fine Nantucket wines

508-325-5929 5 Bartlett Farm Road

ciscobrewers.com Stop by to taste our delicious wines. Located next to Cisco Brewers and Triple Eight Distillery.

Ask about our wine dinners and events. Call for more information or to book a tour.

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

Events & Entertainment Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 15

9 AM to 4 PM - Dance Festival - Open Classes All ages, all levels dance classes led by Festival artists offer a chance to explore tap, ballet, modern, Jookin, swing, and more. Includes a performance workshop for youth interested in joining the benefit show. NantucketDanceFestival.org 9:15 to 10 AM - Marine Storytime - Ages 3+ A marine-themed story, a live animal intro, & a related activity at the MMA Aquarium, 32 Washington St. Pre-registration encouraged: MariaMitchell.org Walk-ins welcome if space allows.

9:45 to 10:30 AM - Dance Party in the Garden Fun songs and singing games in the Atheneum Garden. Bring a blanket to sit on.

In the event of inclement weather, the program will be canceled. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org 10 AM - Endeavor Sailing Excursions with Captain Jim Learn Nantucket’s maritime history & see waterfront sights. Reservations encouraged. Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Tickets at 508-228-5585 or EndeavorSailing.com. Repeated at 1:30 & 3:30 pm.

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide.

In-town pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm 10 AM to 12 PM - Children’s Beach Crafting: 4th of July Crafts Fun, hands-on craft projects for kids of all ages. Children’s Beach, Harbor View Way. 10 AM to 4 PM - Maritime Activity Stations Explore Nantucket’s lifesaving history through rotating pop-up interactive stations featuring crafts, games, and artifact encounters.Included with museum admission. Nantucket Shipwreck & Life Saving Museum, 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open Daily Exhibits in 9 premium galleries, including the new 2026 exhibit The Wider World & Scrimshaw, & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org 10 AM to 5 PM - Trunk Show featuring Designs by Elizabeth Moore Beautiful things are worth discovering, and you’ll find them at Pageo Jewelers, 46 Main Street. July 9-11 discover the designs of Elizabeth Moore.

10 AM to 5 PM - Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum Open Explore updates in the Andrea Doria Gallery, with the story & legacy of the famed 1956 shipwreck, and the new exhibit, From Coast to Coast: The Heroic Stories of Madaket Millie & Marshall the Sea Dog. 158 Polpis Road. eganmaritime.org 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM - Hands-On-History Family programming at the Whaling Museum Discovery Center featuring hands on crafts inspired by The Wider World and Scrimshaw. A new activity each day with a project to create & take home. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad St. nha.org 10:30 to 11:15 AM - Family Connections Tour in the Whaling Museum Experience featured exhibit The Wider World and Scrimshaw in a guided intergenerational tour. Guides bring topics to life with visual & tactile elements, to share the influence of Nantucket whalers, whale ecology, the art of scrimshaw, souvenirs, & more. Incl. with museum admission: registration strongly recommended at nha.org.

10:30 to 11:30 AM - Book Signing with Connor Martin Meet author Connor Martin as he signs copies of his newest thriller The Silver Fish at Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main Street.

10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA Walk through Nantucket town with an NHA Museum Guide & hear the story of the rise and fall of whaling, the beginnings of tourism, and social & racial development on-island. Rain or shine. Tickets at nha.org.

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from the Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm 11 to 11:45 AM - Mini Movers & Shakers Young children + caregivers explore the animal kingdom thru music, movement, storytelling, crafts, & live animal encounters to encourage creativity, learning, and play. Hinchman House Natural Science Museum, 7 Milk St. MariaMitchell.org Preregistration is recommended; walk-ins welcome if space is available.

11:15 AM - The Signature Tour: Traditional Historic Tour of Nantucket Friendly, knowledgeable guides lead a 75-min. tour of historic sites in Nantucket Town, Sconset, & more. See The Oldest House, The Old Windmill, Sconset Village, Sankaty Head Lighthouse & more. Daily at 11:15, 1, & 2:45. Book at 42 Straight Wharf or at nantucketbustours.com or at 508-228-0334.

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise Relax on a narrated tour of the inner harbor while you enjoy ice cream with

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friends & family. Departs again at 1, 2:15, & 4 pm. One-hour; daily cruises. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com.

11:45 AM - The Westender Tour with Island Tours Visit historic sites in Town and the Village of Madaket. Also enjoy stops at Bartlett’s Ocean View Farm & at Cisco Brewers where you can enjoy libations & food vendors. The experience lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-228-0334.

2 to 3 PM - Kids’ Metal Detecting 101 A hands-on beachside metal detecting adventure for kids. Young explorers learn the basics of treasure hunting while searching Nantucket’s shores for hidden discoveries. Registration required: MariaMitchell.org 2 to 4 PM - Read to a Buddy with R.E.A.D. Dogs for Ages 6-12 Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D) are certified therapy dogs trained to be good listeners. Become more confident & enjoy reading. Registration required at NantucketAtheneum.org 3 to 5 PM - Island Tours Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour From the pages of Elin’s “Must See, Can’t Miss, Won’t Forget” guide to Nantucket, The Blue Book, this tour is led by Elin’s sister, Heather Thorpe, & highlights Elin’s favorite shops, restaurants, & beaches, & showcases island spots prominent in her novels. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-2280334.

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Mesha Steele and the Riddim AllStars at Cisco Brewers Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy live local bands. Tables are first-come, first-served: no reservations. Ciscobrewers.com 5 to 7 PM - Art & Wine Sensory Experience at Hostetler Gallery Celebrating 100 years of David Hostetler’s art, Susan Hostetler will share stories about David and his art while you taste a selection of Old World Wines. In the Hostetler Gallery, 42 Centre Street 5 to 7 PM - Evening Art with Nikoline Bohr Participants create lighthouse & animal inspired paintings with guidance from artist Nikoline Bohr. All materials provided. Register at MariaMitchell.org 5:15 to 6:15 PM - Nantucket by Water Cocktail Cruise Escape the summer crowds & enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise around Nantucket Harbor with family & friends. On board music. BYOB. Book at nantucketbywater.com or 508-228-7037.

5:30 PM - The Archaeology of Indigenous Architecture on Nantucket Island An illustrated lecture exploring the archaeology of Indigenous architecture on Nantucket, highlighting recent discoveries that reveal how Wampanoag homes, community buildings, and landscapes were designed and used. Learn how archaeological research is reshaping our understanding of the island’s Indigenous history. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad Street. nha.org 6 PM - Roaring 20s Opening Party for Nantucket Comedy Festival Don your best Roaring 20s attire for an evening of celebrating the festival’s 20th year! Open to all Comedy Festival ticketholders. NantucketComedy.com. A Nantucket Comedy Festival Event 6 to 8 PM - Free Social Dance Evening at NISDA Bring a blanket to relax, learn dance moves from world-renowned ballroom artists on-island for the Nantucket Dance Festival, enjoy live music, grab a bite at a local food truck, & socialize in a non-alcohol setting. Held at NISDA’s Seaview Farm Art Center, 23 Wauwinet Road.

6 to 9 PM - Kids’ Night Out: Enjoy Your Evening While Your Kids Enjoy Theirs Safe, supervised evening program ages 4–12 with games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, & movies while parents enjoy a night out. In-town shuttle for pickup & drop-off available. Register: KidsNightOutNantucket.com 6:30 PM - Sunset Sail Aboard the Endeavor Enjoy a stunning sunset from the water. Reservations at EndeavorSailing.com or 508-228-5585. Departs from Slip #1015, Straight Wharf. Departure times change as time of sunset changes.

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise Nothing beats a Nantucket Sunset. Grab your favorite beverages & snacks and c’mon aboard for one of the best shows in town! Departure time will vary with sunset. Call 508-228-7037 or book online nantucketbywater.com 7 PM - Women’s Night of Comedy: Nantucket Comedy Festival Featuring nationally acclaimed comedians Judy Gold, Katie Hannigan, and Teresa DeGaetano, this high-energy evening of comedy is a longstanding Festival favorite and the perfect kickoff to anniversary weekend. Tickets at NantucketComedy.com. A Nantucket Comedy Festival Event 7 to 9:15 PM - Escape to Margaritaville Presented by Theatre Workshop This high spirited jukebox musical brings the songs of Jimmy Buffett to life in a tropical romantic comedy set at a laid back island resort. Packed with laughter, romance, and fan favorite hits, it is a feel good escape filled with sunshine, music, & carefree fun. by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket. Tickets at TheatreNantucket.org 10 PM to Midnight - Live Music by Local Notes Live music & luscious libations at The Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street.

Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

A 4th Full of Memories from page 9

the Red Sox or winning the pie-eating contest on Main Street. The Red Sox seemed like a long shot, so every Fourth of July I put all my faith in blueberry pie.

I was certain that if I won, people would remember my name forever. Childhood has a wonderful way of turning small victories into world championships. I can’t remember who ever won those contests, but I remember the glory. Faces disappeared beneath whipped cream, blueberry filling stained shirts, and parents laughed until tears rolled down their cheeks. Every kid walked away looking ridiculous, and every one of us secretly hoped we looked like champions.

By midmorning, the childhood paradise we’d been enjoying opened its doors to the rest of the world, and Nantucket did what it has done every Fourth for as long as I can remember. It exploded. Not just with fireworks, but with people.

The island swelled like a tide that forgot when it was supposed to turn around.

Cars rolled slowly over old cobblestones, bicycle bells rang from every direction, beach chairs balanced on wagon handles, and coolers bounced behind bikes.

Every sidewalk seemed to lead somewhere worth going.

People love to complain that Nantucket is too crowded on the Fourth. I don’t remember my childhood Fourths feeling crowded—I remember them feeling full.

Full of neighbors, laughter, bikes, boats, and families. It was full of the wonderful realization that thousands of people had looked at a map and decided there was nowhere on earth they’d rather celebrate than on our little island thirty miles out to sea.

Around here, traffic has always been a little different. At an intersection, someone waves, someone waves back, and another car pulls through. Nobody seems to mind. Maybe it’s because we all know we’re going to bump into each other again before dinner anyway. We’ll stand in the same line for ice cream, pass each other on Main Street, and end up watching the same fireworks from different blankets. On Nantucket, patience isn’t something you practice, it’s just part of living on an island.

By noon, if you were dry, you were doing the Fourth wrong. The annual water fight transformed downtown into absolute mayhem, and every kid wanted to be in the middle of it. Water poured downhill between cobblestones worn smooth by centuries of wagon wheels, whalers, fishermen, workers, dreamers, and children. Those stones have carried nearly every chapter of Nantucket’s history.

On the Fourth, they carried rivers. Everyone was soaked, and that was the point.

Adults who pretended they didn’t want to get splashed somehow laughed the hardest when they did. For one afternoon, dignity took the day off.

Eventually, the smell changed. Salt air gave way to warm waffle cones, and everyone drifted toward the longest line in town. It wrapped around the building and spilled down the sidewalk, but no one complained. Why would they? Every person standing there had hoped, months earlier, that this is exactly where they’d be on the Fourth of July. Someone caught up with an old friend, someone swapped fishing stories, and someone insisted this had to be the busiest summer Nantucket had ever seen. The locals just smiled: they’d heard that one before.

Then everyone found their way to the beach. Blankets overlapped, beach chairs nearly touched, and kids somehow squeezed through tiny gaps without spilling a single bucket of sand. It struck me years later that this is what paradise actually looks like. Not an empty beach, but a full one. A place where nobody minds making room for one more family because everyone understands they’re sharing something special.

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One Fourth, while my dad was catering an event, my mom loaded us into our little Boston Whaler so we could watch the fireworks anchored near the Jetties.

To a kid, it felt like we’d discovered the best seats on the island. The colors burst overhead while they shimmered across the harbor, and I remember thinking there couldn’t possibly be a better place on earth to watch the Fourth of July. Then our little boat decided it had other plans. We lost power. Before we could drift toward the stone jetties, another island family came alongside and towed us safely back to the dock. Nobody panicked, and nobody made a big deal out of it. It was simply one island family helping another get home.

Looking back, I think I love that part of the story as much as I love the fireworks. Nantucket was built on that exact brand of quiet, reflex-like dependency. Centuries ago, when the whaleships left the harbor, the people staying behind knew that survival wasn’t a solo venture: it required an entire town looking out for one another. That DNA never really left the soil. On the Fourth, it’s easy to get swept up in the grand, sweeping ideas of country and patriotism, but patriotism on a sandbar feels a little more intimate. It’s stripped of politics and grandstanding. Out here, the holiday becomes a reminder that being countrymen starts with being good neighbors. It’s the realization that we are bound to each other not just by a flag, but by the shared space we inhabit and the small, daily choices we make to take care of it.

That boat ride home together wasn’t ruined by the breakdown—it was elevated by it. Sitting on the deck as we were towed back, watching the stars compete with the last trails of smoke over the harbor, I didn’t feel the sting of a failed excursion. I felt an overwhelming sense of safety. I was a kid looking around at a dark ocean, realizing that we belonged to a community that genuinely cared. One where you are never truly stranded. We weren’t just a collection of tourists and residents occupying the same zip code for a weekend. For that one night, huddled under a shared blanket, we were a family among families, entirely connected.

The island has a funny way of reminding us that we don’t experience this place alone. We borrow moments from it, and we borrow kindness from each other. The wind changes, the tide changes, and plans change, but somehow, the people always seem to show up when they need to.

Maybe that’s why the Fourth has stayed with me all these years. It isn’t just the fireworks. It’s the smell of warm waffle cones mixing with salt air and gunpowder. It’s the taste of a lobster roll eaten with sandy hands before ending the evening with a mudslide. It’s bicycle bells echoing down Main Street, children laughing through blueberry-stained smiles, and neighbors calling to one another across a crowded harbor. Most of all, it’s the reminder that some of life’s greatest moments aren’t quiet at all. They’re wonderfully loud, messy, crowded, and shared.

Every year, the fireworks explode over Nantucket Harbor, but I’ve come to believe the real fireworks happen down here. Between old cobblestones running like rivers, on beaches where strangers gladly slide their blankets a little closer together, in children who still believe a pie-eating contest can make them famous, and in the simple wave exchanged at an intersection because both drivers know they’ll probably see each other again before the day is through.

We never really own a Fourth of July on Nantucket. We borrow it, just like we borrow summer itself. And maybe that’s why it means so much. Because the best things in life aren’t precious despite the fact that they end. They’re precious because they do.

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

NANTUCKET ISLAND’S

July 2-8, 2026

Art on the Patio

MURRAY CAMP

Kids Night Out Enjoy your night out while your kids enjoy theirs!

Operated by Murray Camp Nantucket (est. 1989), Kids Night Out offers children ages 4–12 an exciting evening of games, crafts, themed activities, outdoor play, movies, and fun in a safe, supervised environment.

Wednesdays-Saturdays from 6pm to 9pm Complimentary in-town shuttle pickup and drop-off available.

Register at kidsnightoutnantucket.com or at this QR code:

508-901-9575 Murray Camp is licensed annually by the Nantucket Board of Health

from page 17

gesture. Her goal is to seize that sunshine or five o’clock shade to create a brilliant mid-day horizon or a silent, shady sunset moment. Each work gives you a sense of the place in which the artist immerses herself.

Rounding out the holiday weekend on the Patio is Alexandra (Sasha) Yurkosky. This oil painter whose bold colors and energetic brushwork capture the unmistakable spirit of Nantucket will host her pop-up on Sunday, July 5 from 12 noon to 3 pm.

Yurkosky grew up in Montclair, New Jersey, but Nantucket has been in her bones since childhood; she spent summers on-island from age six and became a full-time resident in 2006. She dabbled in ceramics at the Artists Association during in the 1980s, and took her first painting class on Nantucket, developing a practice centered on the deep, complex color possibilities of oil paint.

Sasha also holds a Master’s Degree in Mathematics and works as a math tutor.

She finds joy in both the structured precision of mathematics and the limitless creativity of painting, recognizing parallels between the two disciplines in their use of patterns, composition, and problem-solving approaches.

Next Friday, July 10 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm artist Stephen Pitliuk is the Patio Pop-Up artist. A Miami native who has made Nantucket his home, Pitliuk brings Pop Art sensibility and sharp wit to a island art more typically associated with seascapes and landscape views. It’s been said that his style “will endear him to those who venture into the collection of modern art; it challenges the intellect and tickles the funny bone at the same time.”

Trained at the South Center for the Arts, P.A.V.A.C. Performing and Visual Arts Center, and the New World School of the Arts in Miami, Pitliuk developed a style variously described as Post Modern, Pop, Dadaist, and reminiscent of JeanMichel Basquiat all rolled into one. His mixed-media works often take the form of graffiti-style text pieces that riff on the small absurdities of island life: the peculiarities of Nantucket traffic, the rituals of summer visitors, the quirks that a full-time resident would notice. Titles like I Found a Parking Space on Nantucket and I Saw a Drunken Sailor on Nantucket have made Pitliuk’s work a fun fixture among those who recognize the humor.

Fine art photographer Jennifer Wyman Bowman shows her work on the AAN Patio from 12 noon to 3 pm on Sunday, July 12. Her multidisciplinary background in design, architecture, and graphic art gives her work a distinctive compositional intelligence.

Inspired by the Nantucket landscape, Jen is drawn especially to flowers and the ocean. She describes her work as “capturing the graphic relationship between natural elements; the layering of sky, horizon, ocean, and land; the way flower petals overlap, recede, drink in the light; the endless variations in colors, forms and shapes.” She explains: “I am fascinated by what’s in between – the detail within a single hydrangea, the rhythm found in a peony blossom; the spray of a crashing wave, the patterns in water, the changing color of the horizon.”

Founded in 1945, the Artists Association of Nantucket (AAN) has grown into a thriving nonprofit with nearly 300 artist members. The AAN fosters the visual arts on the island through year-round exhibitions at its galleries as well as with educational programs, a permanent collection of nearly 1,700 works, and artist residency programs. The Patio Pop-Ups are a wonderful extension of that community mission: free, informal, and deeply connected to the island life that has inspired Nantucket artists for over a century.

Enter ou ur Photo Contest!

And win cash!

Dea ad dline: September 12, 202

Send d us your original Nantucket photos and be entered to win

$300 first prize or $150 second prize!

High resolution photos of Nantucket can be emailed to

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026

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Yesterday’s Island/Today’s Nantucket

Vol. 56 No. 7 • YesterdaysIsland.com

July 2-8, 2026