Nantucket Festivals

Experience Nantucket festivals throughout the year, from spring celebrations to summer events and holiday traditions across the island.

Photo by: Suzanne Daub

Nantucket is known for its vibrant festival calendar, with events taking place throughout the year that celebrate the island’s culture, food, arts, and traditions. From iconic spring celebrations to peak summer festivals and holiday events, there is always something happening on Nantucket.

Many visitors plan their trips around these events, which range from small community gatherings to nationally recognized festivals.

Nantucket Daffodil Festival

Visit DaffodilFestival.com, where you’ll find up to date information on 2026 Nantucket Daffodil Festival.

April 24 - 26, 2026

Nantucket Wine & Food Festival

The annual Nantucket Wine & Food Fest will be held May 27-31. All festival events are for ages 21+ and include seminars, tastings, luncheons, and other festive events. Tickets will be available online in the springtime.

May 27 - 31, 2026

Nantucket Wine & Food Festival

At The Sconset Casino, experience fierce international films by women, live music by Liz & Cynthea Kelley, a feast by Lemon Press, an open bar, Oui’d drinks that laminate, and an online auction.

Nantucket Book Festival

Talks, panels, author signings, gatherings, and festivities in several island locations that celebrate authors, readers, and books. Save the dates for the Nantucket Book Festival.

June 11-14, 2026

Nantucket Film Festival

The mission of this festival is to promote the cultural awareness and appreciation of the arts of screenwriting & storytelling. Preview screenings, Late Night Storytelling, chats with industry professionals, & other gatherings.

June 17-22, 2026

Nantucket Dance Festival

A fundraiser for Nantucket Dance Theater, expanding education and performance opportunities for island youth. Performances and community-based educational events that highlight diverse dance styles, inclusivity, and learning opportunities for all ages. Featuring live music and dancers from Miami City Ballet, the National Ballet of Canada, Broadway, and more!

July 6-12, 2026

Nantucket Comedy Festival

This annual summer festival brings top comedic talent to Nantucket Island as the major fundraiser for Stand Up & LearnTM, an island-based, year-round comedy education program serving the children of Nantucket. The Nantucket Comedy Festival envisions Nantucket as a community connected by laughter.

July 9 - 11, 2026

Boston Pops on Nantucket

This beloved summer event brings together thousands of community members for a night of entertainment in support of Nantucket Cottage Hospital. The fundraiser brings in millions of dollars to help support and sustain the hospital’s operations and its year-round commitment the health and wellbeing of the island community.

Nantucket Race Week

This 9-day experience is a week of regattas, awards ceremonies, and parties. Races provide sport for the young dinghy sailors and families in household One Designs to Grand Prix racers at the top of their profession. Race Week culminates in the Opera House Cup, an all-wooden, single-hulled classic boat regatta.

August 12 - 16, 2026

Nantucket Christmas Stroll

The 49th annual Christmas Stroll will include caroling, live entertainment, book signings, walking tours, special sales, concerts, Christmas fairs, receptions, and theatre productions. Nantucket’s Town Crier will ring in Stroll and lead Santa’s parade through town.

December 4 -6, 2026

Plan Your Visit Around Nantucket Festivals

Book lodging and transportation early
Purchase festival tickets in advance
Plan your trip around key event dates
Explore events beyond the main festivals
Summer festivals book up quickly
Spring and fall offer smaller, more relaxed events
Many festivals are walkable in Nantucket Town
Check schedules for ticketed vs free events

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What are the most popular festivals on Nantucket?

The most popular festivals include the Daffodil Festival, Wine & Food Festival, Book Festival, Film Festival, and Nantucket Stroll.

When is festival season on Nantucket?

Festival season begins in spring and peaks during summer, with events continuing into fall and the holiday season.

Do Nantucket festivals sell out?

Yes, many festivals and ticketed events sell out quickly, especially during peak summer months.

Are Nantucket festivals family friendly?

Many festivals include family-friendly activities, while some events, like food and wine festivals, are geared toward adults.

Should I plan my trip around a festival?

Yes, planning around a festival can enhance your visit, but it’s important to book accommodations and transportation early.

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