Issuu

photo by Hamid Basbous

photo by Sarah T. Bois

photo courtesy Nantucket Book Festival

Why Nobody Rushes a Nantucket Sunset… see page 5

photo by Jennifer Johnson of Manchester, MA

Pendants P Gold

Drawn into the World He Tried to Escape

by Suzanne Daub

By all outward measures, Richard Russo has had the kind of literary career many writers only dream about — a Pulitzer Prize, an Oprah’s Book Club selection, beloved novels adapted for film and television, and a body of work spanning four decades that has made him one of the defining voices of working-class American fiction. But spend time with the author and you understand that none of it came easily, and none of it was guaranteed.

Russo was born and raised in Gloversville, New York, a post-industrial town in the Mohawk Valley whose fortunes had faded by the time he was growing up. It is a place he spent much of his young life trying to escape. When his parents separated, his mother took him to Martha's Vineyard for two weeks, a trip that left a lasting impression. “She was desperate to escape,” Russo recalled, “and she wanted me to understand there were much better, much

photo by Elaina Seibert

NANTUCKET • NEWPORT • NEWBURYPORT

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Bringing the Next Generation to Fishing

by Steve “Tuna” Tornovish

Tammy King had a vision. She had just been appointed to the board of directors for the Nantucket Anglers Club. This gave Tammy an opportunity to set a plan in motion to make her dream a reality.

“I had this crazy idea to have a freshwater learn-to-fish experience that would be very hands-on. One that the community would have access to because fishing starts with the basics. My dream is to see families sharing the love for fishing.”

Tammy knew that her vision needed help in order to come to fruition. A lot of help. The event was scheduled for June 6. The plan was ambitious. Volunteers were needed, lots of volunteers. And the word had to get out to get the families to turn out to the event. Tammy turned to Homer Ray and Matt Roberts, two fellow Anglers Club board of directors members, to help her make the project happen. She used her sway in the fishing community to round up a large group of fishers to play a variety of roles. She had mothers and fathers from the scouting communities step up. Her Kids Indoor Fishing Fun Day was a go!

Matt Roberts told me, “When Tammy and I came to the board this fall, she had a vision for this kids event. Homer and I knew her event would be the perfect tie-in with our Cub Scouts program. The ages and skills she wanted to focus on lined up perfectly with our scouts who would be eligible for the “Catch the Big One” adventure award after completing the event. I knew that if it was half as good as Tammy was describing, our attendance with kids both in and out of the scouting programs wouldn’t be a problem. The Nantucket Anglers Club and the Cub Scouts have a history of working together for the kids fishing derby, but Tammy’s vision was next level. She had the connection with OutCast (lure company) and every diehard fisherman on the island. She brought everyone together to educate and share our love of fishing with these kids, to pass that passion on to the next generation! I’m so proud to have been even a small part of Tammy’s home run!”

continued on page 16

Why Nobody Rushes a Nantucket Sunset

by Shawn Roberts

For most of the day, Nantucket moves surprisingly fast. Contractors race between job sites, restaurant staff hustle through double shifts, and delivery trucks bounce down cobblestone streets. Cyclists pedal furiously toward beaches, brunch reservations, and ferry departures, while tourists clutch maps, trying to squeeze every possible experience into a single week they spent eleven months looking forward to. Summer arrives with a kind of beautiful urgency. Everybody is headed somewhere.

Then something strange happens around seven o’clock.

The island begins to slow down.

You can almost feel the shift. Cars start drifting west toward Madaket, beach chairs appear in the backs of trucks, and coolers get loaded. Families gather children who have spent the day collecting enough sand to build a small nation. Somewhere, somebody is picking up takeout; somewhere else, somebody is opening a bottle of wine. The migration begins. And for reasons nobody fully understands, thousands of people who spent the entire day rushing suddenly become willing to sit perfectly still.

All for a sunset.

I’ve always loved that about Nantucket. Not just the sunsets themselves, although they are undeniably beautiful, but the fact that so many different kinds of people gather together to watch them.

In almost every other part of life, people separate themselves by age, income, profession, politics, and social circles, but a sunset doesn’t seem particularly interested in any of that. At Madaket, Dionis, Steps Beach, Eel Point, or any number of places where the island leans into the western sky, those distinctions begin to blur.

The hedge fund manager sits in a beach chair next to a carpenter covered in sawdust. The family staying in a waterfront estate watches the same sky as the kid working two jobs to afford rent. Locals, tourists, summer people, washashores, and first-time visitors all end up facing the same direction: toward the

horizon. For ten or fifteen minutes, nobody has better seats than anybody else. The sky belongs equally to everyone.

I think that’s part of what makes it feel so important. Modern life gives us very few shared experiences anymore. Most of us live inside carefully customized worlds, split by different news sources, social media feeds, and schedules. We no longer watch the same shows or gather around the same events the way previous generations did. Yet somehow, every evening, the entire island agrees that something worth seeing is about to happen.

So people show up. Children chase one another through the dunes, and teenagers pretend they aren’t interested while secretly taking photographs. Couples sit shoulder-to-shoulder in folding chairs, old friends tell stories they have already told each other a hundred times before, and dogs wander hopefully from blanket to blanket searching for dropped sandwiches.

Then gradually, conversation begins to soften. Not stop, just soften. Because even the most talkative people eventually run out of things to say when confronted with a sky doing something extraordinary.

The colors never arrive exactly the same way twice. Sometimes the sunset burns orange and gold so intensely it feels theatrical. Other evenings, the sky settles into soft pinks and muted purples that seem almost too delicate to notice at first. Occasionally, fog rolls across the horizon and transforms everything into watercolor. The Atlantic is an artist with an unpredictable mood, and Nantucket has learned not to expect consistency from artists.

What I love most, though, is the anticipation. The waiting. The shared understanding that something beautiful is coming, even if nobody knows exactly what form it will take.

That feels increasingly rare today. We live in a culture obsessed with immediate gratification where every question receives an instant answer and every moment of waiting is instantly filled with phones, notifications, and

THURSDAY, JUNE 11

15TH ANNUAL NANTUCKET BOOK FESTIVAL

From June 11-14, authors & readers meet for talks, panel discussions, signings, & casual gatherings. See ad on back cover for details. NantucketBookFestival.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 for 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

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 10:45 AM - Author Talk Lois Romano with Kathleen Matthews

An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincoln in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: 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 - Author Talk Jamie Siminoff with Kate Brosnan

Hear author of Ding Dong: How Ring Went from Shark Tank Reject to Everyone’s Front Door speak in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre St. Nantucket Book Festival Event

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 508-2287037 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.

1 PM - Linda Loring Nature Foundation Hike with Nantucket Walkabout LLNF’s publicly accessible property has easy trails thru sandplain grasslands, coastal shrublands, & along the North Head of Long Pond in sight of an active osprey nest. 110 Eel Point Road. Book at 508-422-7466 or WalkNantucket.com

1 to 1:45 PM - Author talk by Dr. Joshua Bennett

Hear Bennett talk about his book: WE (The People of the United States) in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

2 to 2:45 PM - Julian Brave Noisecat with Mary Haft

Hear the author of We Survived the Night talk about his book, his people, & legacy in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

At the Center of an Economic Revolution

by Dr. Sarah Treanor Bois, PhD Director of Research & Conservation at the Linda Loring Nature Foundation

Did you know that there once was a tree that spiked an economic bubble in the US? And there are Nantucket ties with a legacy that we can still see (and visit) on the island today?

I love any story with a tree at the center—this one sparks an economic revolution! It all began in the 1830s. New Bedford was taking over as the leader in the whaling industry and Nantucket was looking to diversify. Like many others on the east coast, they started looking at silk. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, silk was a popular and highly valuable commodity. Silk fashion was all the rage but difficult to produce and expensive to import from overseas. Speculation began about whether silk could be produced in the eastern US.

In the 1830s, enterprising individuals sought investors to help start the US silk industry. But it wasn’t just factories and labor that were needed: silkworms were needed to produce the silk threads and their food source needed to be in ready supply.

Silkworms were easy enough to work with. They had been domesticated for more than 7,000 years, starting in ancient China. Importing silkworms and cultivating silk was physically easy because the eggs were tiny and easy to ship. However, they also needed an available food source. Silkworms feed exclusively on the leaves of white mulberry trees. Farmers and speculators throughout the eastern US imported both, betting on the American silk industry to reduce reliance on the foreign silk imports and hoping to get rich themselves.

White Mulberry (Morus alba) is the tree needed to satisfy the silkworms. Native to east Asia, White mulberry is a fast-growing deciduous tree. Because of their essential role in silk production, mulberry trees became associated with economic prosperity and morally upright productiveness. It seemed like a win-win

“The

Events & Entertainment

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

3 to 3:45 PM - Isaac Fitzgerald with Wendy Hudson

Fitzgerald talks about his book American Rambler: Walking the Trail of Johnny Appleseed in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. Nantucket Book Festival Event

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 508-228-0334.

4 to 4:45 PM - Laura Zigman with Sara DiVello

Hear Zigman talk about her book The Author Weekend in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. Nantucket Book Festival Event

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by B3 Kings

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 6 PM - Nantucket Young Playwrights Staged Reading

A staged reading of original 10-minute plays written by Nantucket teens under the mentorship of filmmaker Jay Craven. Performed by professional actors, these short works bring fresh voices & imaginative storytelling to the stage. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India St. NantucketAtheneum.org Nantucket Book Festival Event

5 to 7 PM - Evening Art with Nikoline Bohr

Participants create lighthouse & animal inspired paintings with guidance from artist Nikoline Bohr. A relaxed, creative experience for adults with 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.

5:30 PM - Lecture: Whaling and Its Impacts

A talk exploring the cultural exchange behind scrimshaw and carved art across the Pacific world. Examines Indigenous traditions, whaling history, and how these influences continue to shape contemporary artists and material culture. Nantucket Whaling Museum, 13 Broad Street. nha.org

6 to 7 PM - ELL Beginner & Intermediate English Class

Learn basic conversation or improve English skills. Class in English; preregistration not required. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India St. NantucketAtheneum.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

7 to 8:40 PM - Eureka Day presented by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

This sharp dark comedy follows a progressive school community as a mumps outbreak ignites a fierce debate over vaccines, values, & consensus. What begins as civil discussion spirals into ideological chaos with biting humor & high stakes. Winner of 2025 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play. Tickets at TheatreNantucket.org Bennett Hall, 62 Center Street. 508-228-4305

8 PM - Authors in Bars

Join several of this year’s authors in a comfortable after-hours setting, while enjoying your favorite beverage. Admission is free; cash bar. Nantucket Hotel Breeze Bar, 77 Easton Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

8 PM - Live Music by Haptic Sense at the Brotherhood

Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

15TH ANNUAL NANTUCKET BOOK FESTIVAL

From June 11-14, authors & readers meet for talks, panel discussions, signings, & casual gatherings. See ad on back cover for details. NantucketBookFestival.org

8 AM - Stump Swamp/Norwood Farm Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

A mashup of island terrain; forest, upland meadows, small ponds, a former cranberry bog, & one of the island’s true flowing streams. A 90-120 min. dual property hike, depending on group interest. Book at WalkNantucket.com

8 to 8:45 AM - Free Families in Nature Program

A sensory friendly family program exploring LLNF’s trails, local plants, and wildlife. Designed for young children and caregivers, with hands on outdoor learning in a welcoming setting. Linda Loring Nature Foundation, 110 Eel Point Rd. 8:30 to 10 AM - Marine Ecology Field Trip for Ages 8+

Help collect, identify, & release marine life. 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 - Julian Sancton with Sara DiVello

Hear Sancton discuss his book Neptune’s Fortune in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

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 - Kids’ Bird Watching for Ages 7+

A hands-on bird watching program exploring Nantucket’s coastal habitats through observation, sound, and identification skills. Led by MMA educators, participants use binoculars & field guides to discover local bird species and ecosystems. Registration required: MariaMitchell.org

9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellﬁsh Hatchery

Explore the Moon, planets, & galaxies while learning from professional astronomers. Open to all ages. $25; (for youths: $15). Loines Observatory, 59 Milk Street. Register at 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 - Fabulous Mansions of the Cliff & Brant Point

A 2-1/2 mi., 1 hr exercise walk with historic commentary past island's spectacular summer homes. Led by 3-time runner-up in Nantucket Quiz Bowl $25 ~ $20 for 65+ ~ $15 for teens, $10 for kids 6-12. Cash only. No reservations needed. Gather at Centre & Main Sts, by bank steps. 774-325-8972 whjamieson@gmail.com.

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide. Intown pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

10 to 10:45 AM - Angela Flournoy with Shantaw Bloise-Murphy

Hear Flournoy discuss her book The Wilderness in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

10 to 11 AM - Free: An Hour in Mrs. Cofﬁn’s Garden

A free, fun & informative exploration of the history, layout and signature plants of the colonial housewife’s garden. Discuss Native American gardens, the arrival of the English kitchen garden to New England, staple crops, the importance of herbs, & the blending of garden traditions. Oldest House, 16 Sunset Hill Lane.

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org

11 AM - Barrett’s Tours

Historic tours offered daily departing from 25 Federal St., across from Visitors Centre. Reservations: 508-228-0174 Barrettstours.com Again at 1:30 & 3:30 pm

11 to 11:45 AM - Nicholas Boggs with Mitchell Jackson

Hear Boggs discuss his book Baldwin: A Love Story in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise

1 to 1:45 PM - Belle Burden with Elin Hilderbrand

Hear a discussion of Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage with Burden and Hilderbrand in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

2 PM - Smooth Hummocks Hike with Nantucket Walkabout Hike Nantucket’s version of the Midwest’s prairies, complete with rare wildflowers & grasses that thrive in sandy, nutrient-poor soil—a fascinating island ecosystem with much to teach. Book at WalkNantucket.com

2 to 2:45 PM - Richard Russo with Chriss Brown

Hear Pulitzer Prize winning author Richard Russo discuss his book Empire Falls in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

3 to 3:45 PM - Alice Hoffman with Laura Zigman, and Adriana Trigiani

Best selling author Alice Hoffman will discuss The Best Dog in the World in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

3:30 to 5:30 PM - Free Wines & Rinds at Bartlett’s

Head out to Bartlett’s Farm every Friday afternoon for a tasting of wines and cheeses. Free, no reservations needed Bartlett’s Farm, 33 Bartlett Farm Road. 508228-9403 BartlettsFarm.com

continued on page 9

4 to 5:15 PM - Jenna Bush Hager with Tim Ehrenberg; Shannon Garvey, Juliet Faithfull, & Emma Brodie

A 2-part event: part one with Hager and Ehrenberg; part two featuring Hager and 3authors. In the Methodist Church, 2 Centre St. Nantucket Book Festival Event

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Shwayze at Cisco Brewers

Head to the brewery at 5 Bartlett Farm Road and enjoy this is a ticketed event. Tickets at 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.

6:30 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 7:30 PM - 15th Annual Nantucket Book Festival Celebration Evening

Crystal Clear features Ann Patchett, Patrick Ryan, Julian Brave Noisecat, & Tayari Jones in a conversation exploring how reading & writing deepen understanding, connection, and shared humanity. Held in the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House, 11 Orange St. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

6:30 to 8:30 PM - LGBTQ+ Group

An unstructured, supportive environment for anyone identifying as LGBTQ+ to come together for mutual support and to build community. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise

7 to 8:40 PM - Eureka Day presented by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

8 PM - Live Music by Haptic Sense at the Brotherhood

Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route

Gather at 7:50 pm at corner of Centre & Main by 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 7-12. Cash Only. No Reservations needed. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972

10 PM - Karaoke at The Rose & Crown

Join the fun & sing along at the Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street. 508-228-2595 TheRoseAndCrown.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

15TH ANNUAL NANTUCKET BOOK FESTIVAL

From June 11-14, authors & readers meet for talks, panel discussions, signings, & casual gatherings. See ad on back cover for details. NantucketBookFestival.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 - Vanessa Riley with Dawn Tripp Riley, author of Fire, Sword, and Sea discusses the inspirations behind her seafaring adventure. In the Methodist Church, 2 Centre St. Nantucket Book Festival Event

9 to 9:45 AM - Ravenous Reptiles with MMA for Ages 4+

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 AM to 4 PM - Grab & Go Bag: Paper Spinner Craft

Give making paper spinner toys a whirl. While supplies last at the 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 - Morning Exercise Walk with Historic Commentary

A 2 mile, nonstop. exercise walk with historic commentary down streets & lanes most visitors never find. Cash only; $25; $20 seniors (65+) ; $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Meet at Center & Main sts, by the bank steps 10 min early. No reservations necessary 774-325-8972

High Speed Ferry

10 to 10:45 AM - Conversation with Mitchell Jackson, Marlon James, & Lisa Genova Hear these esteemed authors discuss The Power of Language to Illuminate the Human Experience. Methodist Church, 2 Centre St. Nantucket Book Festival Event Reservations strongly recommended Straight Wharf | Nantucket 508.228.3949 Visit us online for schedules, travel alerts & specials hylinecruises.com

Nuanced Satire by TWN

Theatre Workshop of Nantucket’s production of Eureka Day, written by Jonathan Spector, follows the executive committee at a private school as it navigates a mumps outbreak among its students. Tensions rise as they are left debating vaccination policies, and the audience gets a taste of the range of opinions among parents about conspiracy theories, science, and responsibility.

With uncanny foresight, Spector wrote Eureka Day several years before the COVID-19 pandemic made situations like what he’s portrayed commonplace. The play finds humor in the absurdity of human behaviour (at times unhinged), without villainizing any character. This sharp, laugh-out-loud satire is also provocative, turning an all-too-familiar debate into brilliant theatre.

Tickets to TWN’s Eureka Day are available at TheatreNantucket.org.

photo by Mark Crosby

Events & Entertainment

Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 9

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket

Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide. Intown pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

10 AM to 12 PM - How to Properly Clean Historic Gravestones

Join curator of the Mitchell House & the Prospect Hill Cemetery Assn historian for a short talk about stone monuments & their conservation. Participants then go to the Prospect Hill Cemetery to learn how to properly clean stone monuments. MariaMitchell.org

10 AM to 2 PM - Local Authors from Cape & Islands

Local authors gather to discuss, sell, and sign their books in the Great Hall of Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org

10:30 to 11:15 AM - Family Connections Tour in the Whaling Museum

Experience NHA’s 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. Included with museum admission: registration strongly recommended at 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 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 to 11:45 AM - Ann Patchett with Tim Ehrenberg

Tim will talk with Ann Patchett about her book Whistler in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre St. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise

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

1 to 1:45 PM - Nora O’Donnell with Linda Henry

Hear award winning journalist Nora O’Donnell chat about We the Women: The Hidden Heroes who Shaped America In the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

2 to 2:30 PM - Walking Tour of Bartlett’s Farm

A guided tour of Bartlett’s Farm exploring the blend of traditional & modern greenhouse growing. Discover how fresh, local produce is cultivated year-round on Nantucket’s oldest family farm. Tickets at BartlettsFarm.com

2 to 2:45 PM - Ruta Sepetys with Mary Haft

NYT Bestselling author Ruta Sepetys will discuss A Fortune of Sand in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

2:45 PM - Head of The Plains with Nantucket Walkabout

Experience the Head of the Plains walk through Nantucket’s rare sandplain grasslands. Includes transportation to & from downtown. Bring water, bug spray, sunblock, and walking shoes. Book at 508-422-7466 or at WalkNantucket.com

3 to 3:45 PM - Adriana Trigiani with Sara DiVello

Hear Trigiani discuss her book The View From Lake Como, in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

4 to 4:45 PM - Patrick Ryan with Ann Patchett

Hear Patrick Ryan discuss his book Buckeye in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Jimkata 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 5:45 PM - Tayari Jones with Tim Ehrenberg

Author Tayari Jones will talk about her writing process, years of teaching creative writing, and books a&nd authors who inspired. Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street.

A Nantucket Book Festival 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.

6:30 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.

6:45 PM - Polpis Harbor Sunset Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

As the sun sets over Nantucket Harbor & Coatue, learn from Guide Peter Brace how geological forces formed Nantucket & Polpis Harbors & about salt marsh ecosystem in the harbors & conservation efforts. Book at WalkNantucket.com

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise

7 to 8:40 PM - Eureka Day presented by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

8 PM - Live Music by Haptic Sense at the Brotherhood

Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route

10 PM - Karaoke at The Rose & Crown

Join the fun & sing along at the Rose & Crown, 23 S. Water Street. 508-228-2595

TheRoseAndCrown.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

15TH ANNUAL NANTUCKET BOOK FESTIVAL

From June 11-14, authors & readers meet for talks, panel discussions, signings, & casual gatherings. See ad on back cover for details. NantucketBookFestival.org

8 AM - Shawkemo Hills Hike with Nantucket Walkabout Hike a portion of the island dramatically shaped by the last glacier to cover most of North America. From a high spot, see & learn about the formation of Coatue, Great Point, the Haulover, Nantucket Harbor, & inner harbor shores. Book at 508422-7466 or at WalkNantucket.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.

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 10:45 AM - Rick Tulsky with Adam Nee Hear Pulitzer Prize winning author Tulsky talk about his new work: Injustice Town: A Corrupt City, a Wrongly Convicted Man, and a Struggle for Freedom. In The Dreamland, 17 S. Water Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide. Intown pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: 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 - Shellﬁsh Association Oyster Fest

A celebration of Nantucket’s oyster farms, local shellfish culture, and waterfront conservation efforts. Enjoy fresh oysters while supporting the Nantucket Shellfish Association and the future of the island’s harbors & fisheries. Cisco Brewery, 5 Bartlett Farm Road. Tickets at givebutter.com/nsa-of26

11 to 11:45 AM - Liaquat Ahamed with Michael Schulder

Hear Pulitzer Prize winning author Ahamed discuss his new work: 1873: The Rothschilds, the First Great Depression, and the Making of the Modern World. In The Dreamland, 17 S. Water Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

▲ 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.

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.

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.

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.

Economic Revolution

to start planting.

from page 7

During this time, mulberry tree prices rose 650%; from $4 per 100 trees in 1834 to $30 per 100 trees in 1836. With that kind of rise, some industrious Nantucketers wanted in on the action. Nantucket joined the national “mulberry mania” designed to establish a domestic silk empire. The Nantucket Historical Association notes that Samuel H. Jenks, publisher of the Nantucket Inquirer, was one who aggressively championed planting the trees across public and private lands to nurture silkworms. Ads for white mulberry tree sales are found throughout the newspaper at this time.

Silk was also a material preferred by Quakers as opposed to cotton that was picked and processed by enslaved people. Thus, it seemed like Nantucket was the right spot to grow a silk empire.

In 1832 William H. Gardner planted a mulberry plantation at Quaise. George Fitch planted mulberry trees at his home lot. Other plantings included a stand at the Quaise Asylum for the Poor, as well as some on Academy Hill and on North Water Street. The largest grove was more than 4,000 mulberry trees on shipping merchant Aaron Mitchell’s farm in Polpis. All to nurture the silkworms.

Gardner was the island agent for Kenrick’s Nursery in Newton, Massachusetts. He brought William Kenrick’s influential book, The American Silk Grower’s Guide, to Nantucket in 1835 to encourage more planting. That same year, Gardner joined Jenks, Aaron Mitchell, and others in founding the Atlantic Silk Company to manufacture silk cloth. The factory began operation in mid-1836.

Located at 10-12 Gay Street, the Atlantic Silk Company employed around fifty women who operated the four spinning machines and the six looms. The looms produced 50,000 linen coats and thousands of vests and handkerchiefs in its eight years of operation. Samples of the wares are part of the Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) collections.

The island operation was successful for a time and gained some notoriety. According to the NHA, Massachusetts governor Edward Everett toured the factory in 1836, praising the industrious islanders. He is quoted as saying, “…whether in continued on page 14

Economic Revolution

from page 13

seizing the fibers of the silkworm, or in waging wars with the monsters of the deep – may they be equally prosperous.” Nantucket’s silk was also displayed at the American institute in New York City, garnering praise for its high quality with a prediction that, if the island could produce enough silk, it would surpass the silks of India and France.

Alas, the island’s foray into fine fashion was not to last. Although the silk company won accolades for the quality of its cloth, the company faltered as the mulberry trees began to suffer. The Gray Lady was ultimately not hospitable to mulberry trees. The weather was too cold, the soil too sandy, labor too expensive, and a blight ultimately wiped out many of the mulberry plantations. A harsh winter in 1838 killed many remaining mulberry trees nationwide marking the beginning of the end.

By 1840 the mulberry bubble had burst. The entire market crashed seemingly overnight. In the bubble’s aftermath in the early 1840s, companies along the East Coast went bankrupt. The trees, the silkworms, and the factories were abandoned. On Nantucket, the Atlantic Silk Company factory officially closed in 1844, and the remaining trees were left to naturalize. While most died off, there are still a few specimen trees around today from that time.

The best specimen to see on Nantucket can be found at the Oldest House (Jethro Coffin House) on Sunset Hill. The rambling old tree is a favorite to climb and picnic under. While there may not be silkworms around, the fruit are a bounty for wildlife and

birds. If you are fortunate to find a mulberry when in fruit, delight in the deliciousness! The fruits are a delicate yummy morsel full of antioxidants some consider a “superfood.”

In many parts of the US, white mulberry is now considered an invasive weed. Its fast-growing nature and excessive amounts of pollen produced mean that people now pay to have them removed instead of planted. They aren’t a nuisance (yet) in Massachusetts, but the widespread plantings throughout the eastern US has brought problems for many. In another ironic twist, climate change has changed Nantucket’s hardiness zone and now, white mulberry may be better suited to Nantucket climatically than it was the 1830s.

Have you seen any white mulberry on Nantucket? Let us know!

To learn more about the silk industry on Nantucket, check out the resources at nha.org.

Why Nobody Rushes a Nantucket Sunset

distractions. Yet every evening on Nantucket, people voluntarily sit and do absolutely nothing for twenty minutes. They watch the sky. That’s it. No productivity, no achievement, no transaction. Just attention.

Maybe that’s why it feels so restorative. The sunset asks nothing from us except presence. You don’t need money, credentials, local status, or insider knowledge to enjoy it. Nobody checks your bank account before allowing you to admire the horizon. You simply show up, and the island does the rest.

I sometimes wonder how many important life moments have happened during these Nantucket sunsets. How many marriage proposals, how many reconciliations, how many difficult conversations softened by the sound of waves and the realization that life is shorter than we pretend. How many children sat beside parents they would someday miss desperately? How many old friends unknowingly shared one of their final summers together? The sunset never announces those moments, it simply provides the backdrop. Like all the best things in life, it works quietly.

The older I get, the more I suspect these evenings are beautiful not because of the colors, but because they gather people. They create a temporary community. For a few minutes every evening, thousands of strangers agree to stop chasing whatever comes next and appreciate exactly where

from page 5

they are. That’s not really about sunsets. That’s about gratitude.

Nantucket has always been a place that rewards attention. The island reveals itself slowly to those who are willing to wait. The longer you stay, the more you notice: the smell of beach roses after a humid afternoon, the way fog changes sound, the silver-gray color cedar shingles earn after decades of weather, and the particular angle of late-day sunlight on the moors.

The sunset may be the island’s simplest lesson.

Pay attention.

This won’t last forever.

Summer won’t.

Youth won’t.

The people you love won’t.

The colors arrive. They fade. The stars come out. Tomorrow the whole process begins again. And somehow that doesn’t make it sad. It makes it precious.

Maybe that’s why nobody rushes a Nantucket sunset. Because deep down, everybody understands what they’re really watching. Not just the end of a day, but a gentle reminder that the best parts of life cannot be hurried.

Only noticed.

APPETIZERS

ROMAN STYLE FRIED AR

TICHOKE $17 RT

lemon/sea salt

POINT JUDITH CALAMARI $19

banana pepper/spicy

marinara/corn flour

SNOW CRAB DIP $22

snow crab/old bay/tortillas chips

TBALLS $18 AT BOLO MEA

tomato ragu/whipped

ead ricotta/basil/grilled br

elish tomato sundried pepper r $18 A ATTA FRESH BURRATA

ostini o basil/ balsamic/cr micr

ARM OLIVES $11 WA W

T & CHEESE BOARD $20 MEAAT

fed peppers/ salami stufff

coppa/provolone/cheddar

osemary crackers fig jam/r

fle powder/maldon sea salt trufff TRUFFLE FRIES $12

AIL $22 TA JUMBO SHRIMP COCKT

jumbo gulf shrimp/dantes cocktail

HOUSE WINGS $19 sauce/lemon

okra/blue cheese dr honey jerk hot sauce/pickled

essing

BABY WEDGE $17

bacon/maytag blue/fried onion/egg

cherry tomato/shallot vinaigr

ette

TAAILS SIGNAATTURE COCKT

NOBA SPRITZ $17

MOSCOW MULE $17 orange wheel osecco/soda water aperol/pr

vodka/goslings ginger beer/lime

ALOMA $18 PA ACK P

tequila/grapefruit/sprite

ESPRESSOMARRT tonic soda

s/pumpkin spice syrup bailey’’s fee liqueur ffvodka/espresso/cof TINI $18

PERFECTMANHAATTA TT

AN $19

makers mark/sweet vermouth

INLAND SPLASH $19 do cherry/orange bitters/luxar dry vermouth/angostura

vodka/chambor

d/pineapple juice

esh mozza fr MARG giardiniera mozzarella/ BRAISED T FLAAT

TBREADS

Next Generation Fishing

from page 4

I showed up early on that Saturday afternoon to help set up. I discovered that being 45 minutes early meant that I was an hour late. Tammy and her volunteer army had the entire building decorated and set up when I sauntered in. There were so many stations set up with so many people to help. It was exciting!

Lisa Sherburne was there. I was glad to see her as Lisa still holds the record as the fishing guest who caught the biggest beach false albacore on one of my trips (and she’s so very nice!). She told me, “I ran the photo booth and took pictures of the children in a frame that said, “Gone Fishing.” I thought it was a terrific event, and all the children seemed to have a great time as well as get introduced to the sport of fishing. Tammy did a great job!”

arella/basil/tomato

ALO CHICKEN $20 BUFFFA

falo chicken/blue cheese bufff

hot sauce

HANDHELDS

ALIAN $21 THEITTA

sliced mortadella/cappicola

ham/salami/provolone/lettuce

tomato/calabrian pepper mayo

lettuce/tomato/onion/american NOBABURGER $21 oll tuscan r

cheese/sesame kaiser/pickle

add bacon $3 add fried egg $2

LOBSTER GRILLED CHEESE $34

esh lobster/cheddar american blend fr

dough ed sour ripe tomato/butter

NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN

SANDWICH $22

buttermilk brined chicken

lettuce/tomato/pickle/creamy

nashville hot sauce/sesame kaiser

BEER/SELLT enadine orange juice/lime juice/gr

TZER $9

Corona Stella Artois Pacifico Bud Light Trracker Cisco T ale Pale Ale Ta Cisco Whales T

Te Nantucket T Nantucket Cran Seltzer

equila Lime Seltzer

Kate Arnold, Pinot Noir $15/$58 , Cabernet Sauvignon $15/$58 Decoyy, WINE

Craggy Range, Sauvingon Blanc $16/$64

Masi Masianco, Pinot Grigio $16/$64 donnay $16/$64 , Char r, onoma Cutrer S

Whispering Angel, Rose $16/$64

osecco $15/$58 illa Sandi Pr V

y from 3-10pm ay ayy-S Tu Open Tuesda

Dr. Sarah Treanor Bois had her spot staked out near the front door. We talked about her son Charlie (holy smokes, he’s 16 years old now!) and her awesome husband Carl (captain of the fishing charter boat Topspin). Sarah told me, “Tammy asked for help, and I happily agreed! I was assigned to the trivia board. We asked questions about fishing, fish species, and tools of the trade. Plus I made up a few extra questions for the little ones. I thought the event was a great success. I don’t know the total number, but it felt like there were so many kids and families throughout the time.”

My station was the safety station. I wondered if Tammy had put me there to be Mr. Bad Example, but I did my best. Nantucket Harbormaster Sheila Lucey had provided two Mustang personal floatation devices. I explained the importance of wearing PFDs when boating. I talked about wader safety. I got to hand out nifty flyers that went over the importance of wader belts and other important tips. And, most importantly, I stamped the activity cards for the kids who went to the various stations. It was an absolute blast!

My station was tucked in between Matt Roberts (basic fishing knots) and James Hatton (how to attach fishing bobbers) on my left and Jesse Boyd on my right. Jesse, accompanied by his son Chase, was demonstrating how to properly affix a worm and a minnow onto a bait hook. The worms used were candy gummy worms and the minnows were Swedish Fish. Jesse and I may have consumed a large school of the sugary minnows during our two-hour shift. And he may or may not have jabbed himself

continued on page 17

one good one with a fish hook along the way. These guys were great company, and I thoroughly enjoyed being with them.

Tammy had been worried sick about if enough kids would show up. Those concerns were soon cast aside – the Club was packed all afternoon with more than 100 kids.

Julia and Jameson Heise were there with their daughters Abby and Evelyn. Abby hit the jackpot, guessing exactly how many Swedish Fish were in a jar (230, exactly). Julia said, “You can tell that every detail was thoughtfully considered. The volunteers at the educational tables were exceptional, enthusiastically teaching kids about the various aspects of fishing. I even learned a thing or two myself!”

Hamid “Tak” Basbous was there with his almost 5-year-old daughter Ophelia. Hamid took my favorite picture of the day (cover photo), capturing Ophelia working on casting on the lower dock with Nick Whitbeck. It truly captured what this day was all about.

One of the coolest things happening at the event was seeing kids get to paint their own custom fishing lure, thanks to the great guys at OutCast Fishing Lures. Jeff Adams and Mike Pham helped about 30 kids create their own fishing lures and a lot of beautiful memories! Thank you OutCast crew!

There were all kinds of games for the kids. There were snacks (aside from the Swedish fish that Jesse and I were chowing on). The atmosphere was fun, and it was the kind of event that made me glad to be a part of the Nantucket fishing community.

Sarah Bois summed up the event when she said: “This event was for the next generation of fishing. This is the cultural heritage of our community. It’s awesome to get the kids excited about fishing and what the island has to offer. Tammy did a fantastic job putting it all together and rallying the volunteers. It was such an amazing event!”

Indeed it was. Thanks to Tammy, Matt, Homer and the Nantucket Anglers Club.

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

photo by Sarah Morneau

Events & Entertainment

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise

12 to 12:30 PM - Young Writers Award and Tharon Dunn Scholarship

An awards presentation celebrating Nantucket students, including the Young Writer Award and the Tharon Dunn Scholarship. Presented by bestselling author Ruta Sepetys, honoring excellence in writing and a passion for literature. The Dreamland, 17 S. Water Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

12:30 to 1:15 PM - John Vaillant

Vaillant, author of Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World, will share the reallife events behind his book, the science and storytelling of extreme weather, and the urgent questions his work raises about our collective future. The Dreamland, 17 S. Water Street. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

2 PM - Lost Farm Sanctuary Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

The area is within Nantucket’s oldest outwash plain of sandplain grasslands and contains pitch pine forests and a small walkway over an inlet. This hike is close to Cisco Beach and Cisco Brewery. Book at 508-422-7466 or WalkNantucket.com

3 PM - Free Concert Featuring the Boston Civic Symphony

The Boston Civic Symphony joins the Nantucket Island Youth Orchestra for a special performance featuring A Lincoln Portrait with narrator John Shea, Enigma Variations, and a world premiere by Thomas Peppard. A dynamic orchestral collaboration with professional musicians and local students. Nantucket High School Auditorium, 10 Surfside Rd.

3 to 5 PM - Nantucket Book Festival Send-Off Celebration

Gather at Cisco Brewers for great food, music, and conversation for readers and writers. Shuttle available from Visitors Services on Federal Street. No tickets required; pay for your own food & drinks. Cisco Brewery, 5 Bartlett Farm Road. A Nantucket Book Festival Event

3 to 5 PM - Island Tours Elin Hilderbrand Blue Book Tour

at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-228-0334.

3 to 6 PM - Live Music by Jimkata 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 6:40 PM - Eureka Day presented by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

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.

6:30 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.

6:45 PM - Smith’s Point Sunset Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

See an amazing sunset at the westernmost extremity of Nantucket in sight of Tuckernuck Island. Walk back on the beach under the rising moon & stars, and maybe take a dip in the ocean if you’re game. Book at WalkNantucket.com

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise

8 PM - Live Music by Haptic Sense at the Brotherhood

Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route Gather 6:50 pm at corner of Centre & Main by bank steps. This is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket, led by the original guide. The Most Popular Walking Tour Ever on Nantucket. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 712. Cash Only. No Reservations needed. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972

MONDAY, JUNE 15

STORY WALK: SAM AND DAVE DIG A HOLE

The story of Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett is this month’s book featured continued on page 19

in the Nantucket Atheneum Garden, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org

8 AM - Shawkemo Hills Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

Hike a portion of the island dramatically shaped by the last glacier to cover most of N. America. See & learn about the formation of Coatue, Great Point, \ Haulover, Nantucket Harbor, & inner harbor shores. Book at WalkNantucket.com

8:30 to 10 AM - Marine Ecology Field Trip for Ages 8+

Help collect, identify, & release marine life. 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+

9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellﬁsh Hatchery

9:30 to 10:30 PM - Stargazing at Loines Observatory

Explore the Moon, planets, & galaxies while learning from professional astronomers. Open to all ages. $25; (for youths: $15). Loines Observatory, 59 Milk Street. Register at MariaMitchell.org

10 AM - Fabulous Mansions of the Cliff & Brant Point

10 AM - Plein Air Nantucket - Annual Paint Out Day

An annual Paint Out day at Folger’s Marsh invites artists to paint outdoors at the UMass Field Station and Shipwreck Museum. A scenic, community focused day of creativity with limited parking and shuttle access available. NantucketArts.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 - En Plein Air with Nikoline Bohr

Capture the beauty of Nantucket in this outdoor painting & drawing class. Learn plein air techniques while sketching beaches, gardens, & historic scenes. All experience levels. Materials provided. Pre-registration required at MariaMitchell.org

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket

Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide. Intown pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org

10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA

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 - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise

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 PM - Sankaty Bluff Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

On this hike, walk south down the beach from the Hoicks Hollow Road public way to see examples of & learn about Nantucket’s geological past. Book at 508-4227466 or at WalkNantucket.com

2 to 3 PM - Nourish Nantucket: Free Talk on Thought for Food

Explore local food security efforts through community updates & guest presentations. Featuring results from a recent food insecurity study by BEAM Partners. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org

2 to 3:30 PM - Outdoor Art with Nikoline Bohr

An outdoor art program focusing on close up drawing, nature journaling, & observational art inspired by Nantucket’s natural details. Materials provided, registration required: MariaMitchell.org

continued on page 20

Events & Entertainment

Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 19

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Connor Cox 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

5:15 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 PM - Free Introduction to Amateur Radio

Learn how it works, how to get started, and its role in global communication and emergency response. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.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.

6:45 PM - Head of The Plains Sunset with Nantucket Walkabout

A guided dusk walk through Nantucket’s rare sandplain grasslands. Watch night herons, owls, & deer emerge as the sky glows and stars begin to shine. Includes transportation to & from downtown. Book at WalkNantucket.com

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise

8 PM - Live Music by Mark Carapezza at the Brotherhood Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route

Gather at 7:50 pm at corner of Centre & Main by bank steps. This is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket, led by the original guide. The Most Popular Walking Tour Ever on Nantucket. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 7-12. Cash Only. No Reservations needed. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

8 AM - Gardner Farm-Lost Farm Loop Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

This 2.5 mile hike explores plant succession on globally threatened habitat know as sandplain grasslands. These former vegetable farms are now dominated by pitch pines, with groves & small forests & meadows of wildflowers. Book at 508-4227466 or WalkNantucket.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: 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. Register at MariaMitchell.org

9 AM to 12 PM - Free Tours of the Brant Point Shellﬁsh Hatchery

9:15 to 10 AM - Marine Storytime - Ages 3+

A marine-themed story, a live animal intro, & a related activity. Held at the MMA Aquarium, 32 Washington St. Pre-registration encouraged: MariaMitchell.org

9:30 to 10:30 AM - Kids’ Metal Detecting 101

Rhythm, instruments, & musical games. Perfect for toddlers through early elementary. Bring a blanket to sit on. Canceled in case of bad weather. 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 - Morning Exercise Walk with Historic Commentary

A 2-mi, nonstop exercise walk with historic commentary down beautiful streets most visitors never find. Cash only; $25; $20 age 65+; $15 for teens; $10 for ages 6-12. Meet 10 min. early at corner of Center & Main sts, by bank steps. No reservations needed . 774-325-8972

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket

Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide. Intown pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

10 AM to 12:30 PM - Plein Air Nantucket - Quick Paint Day

Scenic Paint Out session at the Oldest House & along Coffin Park, inviting artists to capture Nantucket landscapes across a combined location. NantucketArts.org

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: 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 - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise

11:45 AM - The Westender Tour with Island Tours

3 PM - Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge with Nantucket Walkabout

A 3-mile hike mostly over sand, this area is a fascinating exploration of the beginnings of Nantucket Harbor. Six habitats - tidal pond, beach, cedar forest & dune, maritime oak forest, salt marsh with 2 active osprey nest poles & harbor. Book at 508-422-7466 or WalkNantucket.com

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Connor Cox 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

5:15 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.

6:30 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 7:30 PM - ELL Beginner & Intermediate English Class

Learn basic conversation or improve English skills. Class in English; preregistration not required. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India St. NantucketAtheneum.org

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

The stage for Open Mic remains open to all, and now you’re invited to bring your own creative projects. Knit, embroider, color, wrap gifts, or simply 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

7 to 8:40 PM - Eureka Day presented by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

8 PM - Live Music by Connor Cox at the Brotherhood

Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route

8:30 to 9:30 PM - Night at the Aquarium for Ages 5+ and Adult

Join MMA aquarists for an after-hours adventure at the MMA Aquarium! Discover how sea creatures adapt to the night with traits like night vision & half-brain sleep. Meet animal ambassadors and explore the aquarium after dark. Pre-registration required: 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, JUNE 17

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 available to borrow. All experience levels welcome. Meet at 110 Eel Point Rd, Linda Loring Nature Foundation

NANTUCKET ISLAND

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 ﬁ nd water stations along the way.

Drawn into the World

from page 3

more beautiful other places in the world...we never went back again, but I think I learned her lesson.” And then, in the way of many writers, he spent the next half-century revisiting his home town in his novels .

“Much of my adult life and my fiction has been a result of the fact that my mother and father presented me with two different visions of America that I have spent my life trying to reconcile.” His father, a war hero who returned home convinced that the country would not change for him or for anyone like him, represented one reality. His mother, “was all in on America,” and wanted Richard to take advantage of all that was available.

The tension between the America that could be and the America that was left behind is a current running through Russo’s writing.

Russo came to fiction by a circuitous route. He studied at the University of Arizona and went on to earn a PhD in English, then “I walked across the hall from the English Department to the Creative Writing Department. There was a wonderful teacher there: I said ‘I think I’d like to write.’” The teacher told him simply “write something.” He did. “It was awful,” said Russo, but “the fuse was lit.”

He went on to earn an MFA and spent years trying to become the kind of writer he had imagined himself being: a crime novelist working in the tradition of Ross Macdonald and James M. Cain: “I wanted to write crime novels set in Los Angeles.” But he had never lived in LA, and it showed. “I was a tourist in a place I never knew.” When he gave his first book-length manuscript to his mentor, Bob Downs, Downs handed it back and told him the truth: “it was pretty much inert.”

But there were forty pages in that manuscript set in a mill town in upstate New York, pages that Downs told him were alive. “I could have killed him,” Russo admits. “It was what I was trying to run away from.” He resisted the truth as long as he could, but when he finally gave in and wrote about the world he actually knew, something opened up. “I wasn’t gonna be the writer I imagined I would be,” he said, “but I was gonna be a writer. Once I dove into that world I couldn’t write fast enough.”

His first published novel, Mohawk, appeared in 1986, when Russo was in his early thirties and teaching at a branch of the University of Pennsylvania. It established themes that would define his work: the fading industrial Northeast, the weight of place on people’s lives, comedy and tragedy intertwined.

Recognition came to Russo incrementally: “If there’s one thing that will kill you as an artist is believing it will be easy,” he commented. He was awarded 1990 Guggenheim Fellowship for Creative Arts in 1990. Empire Falls (2001) won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, securing his place in the literary canon. His novel That Old Cape Magic was named an Indie Choice Book Award Honor Book. In 2017, he was honored with a Grand Prix de Littérature Américaine. Bridge of Sighs, a book he nearly abandoned, was published in 2007 and was selected as Oprah's Book Club pick for August 2025, a recognition that surprised even Russo, given how many years had passed since that novel’s original publication.

Russo’s work has translated well to the screen. Nobody’s Fool was adapted into a 1994 film directed by Robert Benton, with Paul Newman in the lead role of Sully Sullivan. Newman and Russo developed a friendship through the project, and Russo spoke about the experience of watching the actor inhabit his character, a figure based on Russo’s father. One scene in the film stands out in Russo’s memory. In the novel and in early drafts of the script, Sully delivers a long monologue explaining why he was absent from his son’s life. On set, Paul Newman asked them to simply put the camera on his face. “The scene that was shot has Paul Newman delivering one line instead of five pages of explanation,” Russo recalled. “It is just wonderful.”

Empire Falls was adapted as an HBO miniseries in 2005, starring Ed Harris and Helen Hunt, with Newman in a supporting role. Straight Man, Russo’s satirical novel of academic life, was adapted for Paramount+ in 2024. The author did not spend much time on set for either production: “the greatest gift a writer can give a director is to not be on set.”

He is eager to see more of his work adapted. “I want to see them all,” he said, though he acknowledges that Hollywood has been in considerable disarray of late, with projects that had been gaining momentum now stalling.

Few relationships between an author and his characters have been as long and emotionally resonant as the one between Richard Russo and Sully Sullivan — the aging, irascible, perpetually unlucky handyman at the center of Nobody’s Fool (1993), Everybody’s Fool (2016), and Somebody’s Fool (2023).

Russo insists that when he finished Nobody’s Fool, he considered the story complete. “When I finished that book, I was done.” The long gap between the first and second installments reflects that conviction. What changed? Partly it was the pull of unfinished emotional business. Going back to North Bath, the fic-

tional upstate New York town where the novels are set, felt like “visiting old friends.” He missed them. And Sully had taken on additional layers of meaning after Paul Newman brought the character to life on screen. Going back to North Bath was, in part, an act of mourning and of tribute. Writing Everybody’s Fool meant Russo could spend more time with his father and, in a sense, with Paul Newman, who died in 2008. Philip Seymour Hoffman, who played Chief of Police Raymer in Nobody’s Fool, died in 2014: Russo has said he channeled Hoffman entirely while writing Chief of Police Raymer in Everybody’s Fool

When asked if he writes for fun or if it’s a compulsion, he replied “yes to both.” Russo writes every morning, longhand in notebooks. “Two pages is a good day” he explained. “By the end of the year, you’ll have something the size of a book... you won’t have a book because you would have screwed up a number of times or a character says something you didn’t expect and you start again.”

Then he steps away: “I walk three miles a day, and I try to clear my mind as much as possible. Strangely enough, by trying to clear my mind, I almost invariably find myself rushing home to make some notes on what occurred to me during the walk.”

In the afternoon, he transfers his morning’s work to a computer; that transcription is, in effect, the first rewrite. Then he reads. Eighty books last year, he estimates: literary novels, thrillers, nonfiction. “I love Ann Patchett’s work; I’ve read Elizabeth Strout’s newest; right now I’m reading Douglas Stuart’s John of John... it’s terrific, completely immersive.”

The hardest part of writing a novel, he says, is the beginning—and the beginning lasts longer than you think. The first third of any book is, for Russo, a process of constant rewriting, discovering where the story actually starts, which is rarely where you thought it did. “Ann Patchett told me once when struggling with a novel ‘I would remind myself that no matter how many times you do it, no matter how many novels...despite you are supposed to know how to do this...you find yourself in the same situation: you start a book, you write (for me it is around 75 pages), and you realize you started in the wrong place. You start again, and then the fact that you corrected the problem once does not mean you won’t have to go back and start again.’

“The first third of the book you’re just gonna rewrite and rewrite and rewrite. The second third won’t take nearly as long because you have closed a number of narrative doors. By the last third, most of the narrative doors are closed... it should be a race to the finish.”

One novel that Russo nearly abandoned was Bridge of Sighs. Two hundred and fifty pages in, with three equally important protagonists and no clear path forward, he sent the manuscript to his agent. “I’m lost,” he told him. “I may have to put this aside. I think I have three books here.” His agent read it, made suggestions, and saved it. “I was ready to throw in the towel on that one.”

Russo’s most latest book is a thriller that he describes as “both a departure for me and a homecoming.” Due out this August, Under the Falls follows Tyler Sinclair, a musician who left his upstate New York hometown only to be brought back by his manager for a gig, where Sinclair discovers that not everyone has fond memories of him.

“No doubt about it: it is a thriller,” he commented, “and there is crime in it, but unlike many thrillers that are plot-driven, this book is character-driven and place-driven, like all my other novels.” His editor at Knopf, when she first read the opening, told him to let the thriller form “genuflect” to him. She advised him to set the place first, before he put the characters in motion. Lenses of place and class, which have always been central to his work, remain central in this novel.

Asked what tips he would give to writers starting out, Russo said “Expect it to take awhile...Try not to be too hard on yourself: what you’re doing is really difficult...As an artist you can be very hard on yourself, especially when things aren’t going well.”

Most importantly, he said, “Don’t be too self-absorbed...find a way to get out of your own way. Your characters are so much more important than you are...get out of yourself and devote all your attention to them.”

“As with most things that have something to do with art... painting, music, writing... there is a feeling of must that you have... that feeling comes long before you have the ability.”

As his birthday approaches, Richard Russo just finished a new short story set on Martha's Vineyard, that place his mother first showed him as a boy. He is, as he put it simply, never not working on a novel.

One of the Featured Authors during the 15th Annual Nantucket Book Festival this weekend, Richard Russo will be in conversation with the Nantucket Book Foundation’s Administrative Director Chrissy Brown on Friday, June 12 at 2 pm in the Methodist Church, 2 Centre Street. They’ll reflect on Russo’s signature portrayal of small town American living, the nuances of family dynamics, the challenges of contemporary literature, and his years of reading and writing.

Island Fun & Shopping

Adventure / Eco-Tours

Nantucket by Water

508-228-7037

A Variety of Boat Tours for All Ages Straight Wharf, Slip #1011

Call or visit us on Straight Wharf for your Island Adventure 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

Nantucket Walkabout

508-422-7466

Daily Guided Wilderness Hikes on Nantucket see website for hikes & times Book online & meet at Handlebar Cafe, 15 Washington St nantucketwalkabout.com

Explore Nantucket’s wilderness with “Walking Nantucket” and “Nantucket: A Natural History” author and naturalist Peter Brace, and learn how the last glacier formed the island. Experience wildlife and rare plants. Learn about Nantucket’s conservation efforts, ecology and the Native Americans that lived here. Adults $65-80; children ages 13 & younger $30-$35. Private and solo hikes also available. Apple Pay, Android Pay, MC, Visa, Amex, & Discover accepted. Get details & make reservations at nantucketwalkabout.com or 508-422-7466.

Apparel & Accessories

Blue Beetle

508-228-3227

Open Daily 12 Main Street

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

Open Daily. Visit us in the store & online!

508-680-1399

16 Federal Street 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

774-325-5982 Open for the 2026 Season 10 Old South Wharf Layer. Collect. Gift.

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

Art Schools & Classes

Nantucket

Island

School of Design & the Arts

508-228-9248

Classes, Workshops, Tutorials, Lectures, Gallery Openings & More Wauwinet Road College Study, Teachers Institutes, Art Studio Workshops & Young Artists Programs

Art for all at NISDA. Our Arts and Educational Mission is to explore the connections of the arts, sciences, humanities, and the environment, and to enhance education, community, and quality of life through arts stewardship. NISDA is dedicated to sharing the spirit and creativity that the Arts bring into our lives. Our Seaview Farm Arts Community offers a place to be inspired, refreshed, to create, learn. Join us July 9th for Swing Dance Night as part of the Nantucket Dance Festival and on July 11 at Jetties Beach for the 51st Annual NISDA Sandcastle & Sculpture Contest. nisda.org

Artists & Galleries

Artists Association of Nantucket

508-228-0294

“Chasing Light” on display thru June 23 8 Federal Street

In-Person Gallery & Online Exhibits

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 June 23 CHASING LIGHT 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

508-228-1353

Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm 40 Straight Wharf Oils, watercolors, prints, and note cards by G. S. Hill

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

Susan Lister Locke Gallery

508-228-2132 & 508-221-0531

Open daily 28A Easy Street

Art and Inspired, Creative Jewelry

Banking

Cape Cod 5

888-225-4636

Open Monday-Saturday 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

508-228-0800

Open Daily 6 So. Beach Street, next to Affordable Rentals

Bicycle Rentals & e-Bike 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

Easy Riders Bicycles

Open Daily

508-325-2722

65 Surfside Road

Bike Rentals, Sales, Service AND Electric Bikes easyridersbikerentals.com

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.

Young’s Bicycle Shop

Open daily in season

“The Cycle-logical Way to See Nantucket Island”

508-228-1151

6 Broad Street

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

Island Fun & Shopping

Books & Publications

CALL NANTUCKET

Charters - Sailing & Boating

Endeavor Sailing Excursions

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

508-228-9165

Guiding Visitors on Nantucket for 56 Years Box 626, Nantucket, MA 02554 In print & online + eNewsletter

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

508-228-5585

Private Charters. Per Person Fares Slip 1015, Straight Wharf 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

Classes & Workshops

Artists Association of Nantucket

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

508-228-0722

Open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm Visual Arts Center, 24 Amelia Drive Classes & Workshops for all ages

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 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

508-228-4000

Open Daily: books, gifts, chocolate 25 Broad Street Books, chocolates, & unique gifts

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

Car Rentals

Affordable Rentals

508-228-9198

Summer Programs for All 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

Confections

Aunt Leah’s

Fudge

Open daily

Made fresh on Nantucket

508-228-3501

Open daily 6 South Beach Street 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

Open daily in season

508-228-1017

The Courtyard, 16 Straight Wharf

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

508-228-1151

6 Broad Street

“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

508.680.1399

Visit us in the store and online! 16 Federal Street

Fabulous Resale. Fresh Finds.

Hospital Thrift Shop

Commonwealthnantucket.com

508-228-1125

Mon., Wed., Fri. 10am-12:30pm & 1-3:30pm Clothing, housewares, furniture & more Tues. & Thurs. 1-3:30pm & Sat. 10am-12:30pm 17 India Street

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. Evening hours start June 9. hospitalthriftshop.org

Island Fun & Shopping

The Rainbow Fleet

Gifts

Hill’s of Nantucket

508-680-1159

Open Monday-Saturday 10am to 5pm 167 Orange Street

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

NANTUCKET PHOTO CONTEST

508-228-9165

Deadline is Sept. 12, 2026 - CASH PRIZES Box 626, Nantucket, MA 02554

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

Open Monday - Saturday 61 Old South Road

Locally owned and operated

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 cranberry fudge or 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 takehome gifts. Another unique gourmet candy is her cranberry “bog frogs,” filled with roasted cashews, dried sweetened cranberries smothered with rich caramel and topped with premium milk chocolate. And you’ve got to try her mouth-watering cranberry bars: dried and sweetened cranberries with roasted almonds in both milk or dark chocolate. auntleahs.com

Digital Guide to Nantucket

Insiders Guide to Nantucket

Beaches, Events, Museums, Biking, Classifieds, & More

Visit us online & follow us on Instagram @nantucket_insider

Visit Nantucket before & after you visit Nantucket!

508-228-9165

Visit NANTUCKET.NET for a biking page, lighthouse page, festivals page, photo galleries, maps, parks & trails, and guides to lodging, dining, real estate, recreation, and much more! 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. And our classifieds are ever-changing. Visit Nantucket before, during, and after you visit Nantucket by going to Nantucket.net and follow us on Instagram @nantucket_insider Nantucket.net

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

Open Daily

Distinctive Nantucket Gifts

508-680-1901

30B Main Street

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

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

508-825-8100

57 Prospect St Medical Care & Urgent Access

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

Home Decor

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

Open Daily

Distinctive Nantucket Gifts

508-680-1901

30B Main Street

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 Fun & Shopping

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

Blue Beetle

Susan Lister Locke Gallery

508-228-2132 & 508-221-0531

June 17 from 11 am to 2 pm: Ribbon Cutting & Bangle Bar, introducing DuBar

Inspired and Creative Jewelry 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

Library & Public Programs

Nantucket Atheneum

508-228-3227

Open Daily 12 Main Street Jewelry & Gifts

Icarus + Co.

Open Daily

Jewelry and Home Decor

508-228-1110

Open year-round. Books, Programs for All Ages, Concerts, & More 1 India Street Nantucket’s Free Public Library & Gathering Place

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 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

Mortgages

Cape Cod

5

19 Old South Wharf

Jewelers’ Gallery of Nantucket

508-228-0229

Visit us online 21 Centre Street

Fine Antique & Estate Jewelry thejewelersgallery.com

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.

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

508-228-0272

Open for the 2026 season. Great gifts that sparkle! 1 Orange Street Jewelry, Lightship Baskets, Art, Scrimshaw, & more

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

888-225-4636

Open Monday-Friday 112 Pleasant Street and Zero Main Street

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

Movies, Concerts, Celebrations

The Dreamland

See Our Website for Films & Events Nantucket’s Film & Cultural Center 17 South Water Street 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 Science center, aquarium, museums, & field trips

508-228-9198

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 Whaling Museum

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

508-228-1894

Admission $25; 65+ & Students $23; Ages 6-17 $10; under 6 free Island residents & NHA members admitted free 15 Broad Street 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 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

Island Fun & Shopping

NHA Sites

508-228-1894

Your portal to Nantucket history 15 Broad Street 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

Special Events

A Night at the Museum

July 9: Tickets on Sale Now! Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum

Join the Egan Maritime Institute for an unforgettable evening as they commemorate the 70th anniversary of the tragic sinking of the Andrea Doria, one of the most storied ocean liners of the 20th century. Come dressed to impress in Nantucket Black Tie attire and embrace the glamour of the 1950s. You will enjoy cocktails, engaging conversations, and specially curated museum experiences that explore the ship’s legacy, its final voyage, and its lasting connections to Nantucket’s maritime history. eganmaritime.org

Baskets, Bubbles, & Bourbon

June 26: tickets at nha.org

Annual Fundraiser & Garden Party

Join us for our annual summer fundraiser celebrating the rich tradition of Nantucket lightship baskets! This year, Baskets & Bubbly is now BASKETS, BUBBLES & BOURBON and will feature exciting new additions that honor both weavers & collectors. We will also have an exclusive showcase of distinguished basket collectors displaying their treasured pieces. This year, our highly anticipated auction features a curated selection of exceptional works from today’s most talented artisans—plus select collaborations with other skilled craftspeople. And that’s not all! Enjoy a bourbon tasting alongside our signature bubbles, craft cocktails, and light bites. Tickets on sale now at nha.org

DreamBIG 2026

See Our Website for Films & Events Benefit for The Nantucket Dreamland held in the Sconset Casino Fundraiser on July 17

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

Killer Queen Theatre Gala

508-228-4305

Benefit on July 28, 2026 from 6-10 pm Tickets at theatrenantucket.org Nantucket’s Longest Running Professional Theatre

2026 include: Shannon Garvey, Jamie Siminoff, Rick Tulsky, Joshua Bennett, Emma Brodie, Jenna Bush Hager, Julie Gerstenblatt, Alice Hoffman, Marlon James, Norah O’Donnell, Ann Patchett, James Sulzer, and more. Most NANTUCKET BOOK FESTIVAL events are free — see the full schedule at nantucketbookfestival.org

Nantucket Dental Society

20th Annual Seminar: June 18-20, 2026

201-670-9076

Nantucket Dental Society offers one of the best continuing education programs in the world, with world-class speakers, cutting-edge topics and techniques. Our annual seminar includes morning lectures and multiple networking events on Nantucket Island. The connections you make and the knowledge you leave with will enhance the day-to-day techniques you use in your own dental practice and help to grow your business. Register online at nantucketdental.com

Plein Air Nantucket

508-228-0294

Artists Assn. of Nantucket Plein Air Festival around Nantucket June 12-18, 2026

ARTISTS ASSOCIATION OF NANTUCKET is hosting their annual Plein Air Nantucket from June 12-18. All community members and visitors are invited to register and then set up their easels anywhere on Nantucket, paint en plein air, and exhibit their Fresh Works at AAN’s Cecelia Joyce and Seward Johnson Gallery, 8 Federal Street. Participants may exhibit their fresh artworks daily for sale on our festival “Wet Walls.” This year’s Plein Air Paint Out Day will be held from 10 am on June 15 at the Shipwreck Museum & at the UMass Field Station. On June 16 from 10am to 12:30pm, Quick Paint sessions will be held at Oldest House and through .4 miles of Coffin Park to park area next to Something Natural, a combined location. Closing reception & awards ceremony on June 18 at 4 pm in Johnson Gallery. nantucketarts.org

Stargazer Circus

July 24, 25, & 26 + Opening Night Gala July 23

Tickets are on sale now: get yours, while they last!

Maria Mitchell Association hosts Venardos Circus mariamitchell.org

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 Jetties Beach

Relay Swim to Raise Funds to Fight Cancer

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

Theatre

Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

508-228-4305

EUREKA DAY on stage through June 20 Tickets at theatrenantucket.org

Nantucket’s Longest Running Professional Theatre

THEATRE WORKSHOP of Nantucket has been the island’s live theatre company since 1956. On stage June 5-20, EUREKA DAY is marked by biting humor, rapid-fire dialogue and serious stakes, the play is both a farce and a mirror: it skewers extreme viewpoints, but also holds tenderness for parents trying to do right by their kids. It asks: is there still room for doubt in a world where everyone demands certainty? And: what happens when the tools of inclusion become barriers to action? This dark comedy won the 2025 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play. Get your tickets today at theatrenantucket.org! TWN: Where Nantucket Meets Broadway! theatrenantucket.org

508-228-1110

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 1 India Street Benefit For Nantucket’s Free Public Library & Gathering Place

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 Nantucket Book Festival

June 11-14, 2026 Visit the website for schedule of free & ticketed events Great Books & Fascinating Authors

The NANTUCKET BOOK FESTIVAL brings more than 20 stellar authors to Nantucket for in-person talks, forums, gatherings, and celebrations of writers and readers. Presenting authors for

Barrett’s Tours

Tours - Bus & Van

1-1/2 hr tour; departs daily at 10:30am, 1:30 pm, & 3:30 pm

508-228-0174

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

Gail’s Tours, Inc.

Island Fun & Shopping Bakeries

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 and 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

Walking Tours offered by Nantucket Historical Assoc.

Dining Guide

Nantucket Bake Shop

508-228-2797

Tues.-Fri.: 6:30 am to 1:30 pm; Sat.: 6:30 am to 3 pm 17-1/2 Old South Road

The delicious freshly baked treats & bread you love + Gluten-Free goodies! Interested in enjoying an authentic bit of Nantucket? You still can in the NANTUCKET BAKE SHOP. Here you’ll find genuine Portuguese bread & rolls. Be tempted by our world-famous almond macaroons and Magees. For breakfast, try our egg sandwiches, fresh donuts, native cranberry & blueberry muffins, scones, flaky croissants, & 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. For mail order, visit our website. Nantucketbakeshop.com

Brewers

Cisco Brewers

508-325-5929

Open 7 Days a Week 5 Bartlett Farm Road

Home of Cisco Brewers, Nantucket Vineyard, and 888

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

508-228-1894

At 10:45 am & 1:30 pm Mon.-Sat depart from Whaling Museum, 15 Broad St. 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 Walkabout

Light Food & Take-Out

45 Surfside Bakery & Cafe

Breakfast & lunch daily

Take out or eat in our dining room or outdoor patio

508-422-7466

Daily Guided Wilderness Hikes on Nantucket see website for hikes & times Book online & pickup at Handlebar Cafe, 15 Washington St Explore Nantucket’s wilderness with “Walking Nantucket” and “Nantucket: A Natural History” author and naturalist Peter Brace, and learn how the last glacier formed the island. Experience wildlife and rare plants. Learn about Nantucket’s conservation efforts, ecology, and the Native Americans that lived here. Rated 5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor. Adults $65-80; children ages 13 & younger $30-$35. Private and solo hikes also available. Apple Pay, Android Pay, MC, Visa, Amex, & Discover accepted. Get details & make reservations at nantucketwalkabout.com or 508422-7466. nantucketwalkabout.com

Nantucket Walking Tours

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

Open Daily, Year Round

Farm Grown Produce | Garden Center | Groceries | Beer & Wine

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner To Go

774-325-8972

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

Hy-Line

508-228-9403

33 Bartlett Farm Road

508-228-3949

Travel daily; see schedule for times Make your reservations online High-Speed, Passenger-Only, Ferry Service from Hyannis Straight Wharf 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! hylinecruises.com Steamship Authority

Reservations: steamshipauthority.com

508-228-0262

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?

Cook’s Cafe

Open Daily 10 am to 3 pm

Healthy Take Out — Wraps & Smoothies

bartlettsfarm.com

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

The Brotherhood of Thieves

Dining Guide

Live Entertainment

Cisco Brewers

Live Music & tasty libations

508-325-5929

5 Bartlett Farm Road

Live Entertainment Is Back - check website for schedule 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. ciscobrewers.com

Markets

Bartlett’s Farm

Open Daily, Year Round

774-325-5812

Open 7 days a week 11:30 am to midnight 23 Broad Street

Good food. Good drinks. Good company. brotherhoodnantucket.com

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. 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

508-228-9403

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

Night Life

The Brotherhood of Thieves

508-257-4499

Lunch & Dinner Tuesday-Sunday 9 New Street, Siasconset Reservations available on resy.com or 508.257.4499

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

Nobadeer Café

Open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM; Bar Open Tues-Sun from 3 to 10 pm

508-228-6900

A casual, family-friendly spot for dining in or take-out 1 Miller Ln, in The Nantucket Inn

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

Open daily from 11:30 am 23 South Water Street

Indoor & Outdoor Dining ~ Takeout Available

774-325-5812

Open 7 days a week 11:30 am to midnight 23 Broad Street Good food. Good drinks. Good company.

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

508 228-6900

Open Tuesday-Sunday from 3 to 10 pm 1 Miller Lane, in The Nantucket Inn Cozy Cocktail Lounge in the Nantucket Inn nantucketinn.net/dining

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

Curated selection of wines & spirits

Open 10 am to 9 pm 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

508-228-2595

Open daily from 11:30 am 23 South Water Street Come for the Food, Stay for the Fun! 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

45 Surfside Bakery & Cafe

508-325-5929

Open daily 5 Bartlett Farm Road

Fine Nantucket wines 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.

774-333-3981

Breakfast & lunch daily 45 Surfside Road

Take out or eat in our dining room or outdoor patio

Events & Entertainment

Events are updated daily, year-round at Nantucket.net from page 20

8 AM - Smith’s Point Hike with Nantucket Walkabout Nantucket’s westernmost sand extremity is a great hike to see nesting piping plovers, least terns & American oystercatchers and catch a glimpse of Tuckernuck Island. Book at 508-422-7466 or WalkNantucket.com

8:30 to 10 AM - Marine Ecology Field Trip for Ages 8+

Help collect, identify, & release marine life. 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

9:30 to 10:30 PM - Stargazing at Loines Observatory

Explore the Moon, planets, & galaxies while learning from professional astronomers. Open to all ages. $25; (for youths: $15). Loines Observatory, 59 Milk Street. Register at 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 - Fabulous Mansions of the Cliff & Brant Point

10 AM - Gail’s Tours of Nantucket

Daily in-depth van tour of Nantucket with 7th generation native as your guide. Intown pickup. To reserve a seat, call 508-257-6557. Tours again at 1 & 3 pm

10 AM to 5 PM - Nantucket Whaling Museum Open

Exhibits in 9 premium galleries & more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, & treasures on display to tell the story of Nantucket across 4 centuries. Tickets: nha.org

10:45 AM - Historic Downtown Walking Tour with NHA

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 and Mary Kay Andrews Elin’s iconic weekly Wednesday signings! This week Elin will be joined by popular and best-selling novelist, Mary Kay Andrews! No pre-purchase is required for Elin’s signings. The first 100 people in line will get a ticket. You can start lining up at 10am Only books purchased at Mitchell’s and Bookworks can be autographed. Mitchell’s Book Corner, 54 Main Street. 508-228-1080 MitchellsBookCorner.com

11 AM to 2 PM - Ribbon Cutting & Bangle Bar introducing DuBar

The Susan Lister Locke Gallery, DuBar, @ackace, & Chamber of Commerce host a Ribbon Cutting & Bangle Bar introducing DuBar. In The Susan Lister Locke Gallery on the waterfront at 28 Easy Street. 508.228.2132 susanlisterlocke.com

11:15 AM - Nantucket by Water Harbor Tour & Ice Cream Cruise

11:45 AM - The Westender Tour with Island Tours

2 to 2:30 PM - Walking Tour of Bartlett’s Farm

2 PM - Smooth Hummocks Hike with Nantucket Walkabout Hike Nantucket’s version of the Midwest’s prairies complete with rare wildflowers and grasses that thrive in sandy, nutrient-poor soil. Smooth Hummocks is a fascinating ecosystem with much to teach. Book at WalkNantucket.com

3 to 4 PM - Library Legos at Nantucket Atheneum

The library will supply the LEGO bricks & just have fun. The program is FREE but

space is limited. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. 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, & island spots prominent in her novels. Book at 42 Straight Wharf, at nantucketbustours.com, or at 508-228-0334.

4 to 5 PM - Behind the Scenes at the Collections Center

Curious about what’s hidden behind the scenes at the NHA? Join curators for a private tour of special collections, including paintings, furniture, & unique Nantucket artifacts not on public view. Gosnold Collections Center, 89 Bartlett Road. NHA.org

4 to 7 PM - Live Music by Buckle & Shake 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 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. Whether you’re a pro or just getting started, there’s fun for everyone. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.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.

6:30 to 8:30 PM - Atheneum Knitting Group

A relaxed knitting group for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced crafters. Share projects, learn new techniques, and get help in a welcoming setting. Free and open to all. Nantucket Atheneum, 1 India Street. NantucketAtheneum.org

7 PM - Shawkemo Hills Sunset Hike with Nantucket Walkabout Hike through a portion of the island dramatically shaped by the last glacier to cover most of N. America. See & learn about the formation of Coatue, Great Point, Haulover, Nantucket Harbor & inner harbor shores. Book at WalkNantucket.com

7 to 8:30 PM - Nantucket by Water Sunset Cruise

7 to 8:40 PM - Eureka Day presented by Theatre Workshop of Nantucket

8 PM - Live Music by Connor Cox at the Brotherhood

Hear live music performed in the Cisco Surf Bar, upstairs at the Brotherhood, 23 Broad Street.

8 PM - The Nantucket Ghost Walk - Town Route Gather at 7:50 pm at corner of Centre & Main by bank steps. This is the most popular walking tour ever on Nantucket, led by the original guide. The Most Popular Walking Tour Ever on Nantucket. $25; $20 seniors(65+); $15 for teens; $10 for ages 7-12. Cash Only. No Reservations needed. whjamieson@gmail.com 774-325-8972

THURSDAY, JUNE 18

8 AM - Stump Swamp/Norwood Farm Hike with Nantucket Walkabout

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: mariamitchell.org.

9 to 9:45 AM - Ravenous Reptiles with MMA for Ages 4+

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

9:15 to 10 AM - Marine Storytime - Ages 3+

A marine-themed story, a live animal intro, & a related activity in 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

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