Fourth of July in Nantucket: A Celebration to Remember

06/25/2024

Spending the Fourth of July in Nantucket is truly a magical experience. Countless events make it the perfect place to celebrate Independence Day. Whether you're looking for kid-friendly activities, dinner reservations, or the perfect spot to catch the fireworks, we have a full list of happenings below in this Nantucket guide.

Main Street Area on the Fourth of July

Kick off your Fourth of July in Nantucket by exploring the heart of the island’s historic district. The morning is filled with activities that capture the spirit of the holiday and the local culture.

From 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, visit the Sustainable Nantucket Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market on Cambridge Street, between Federal and South Water Streets. Here, you can shop for local produce, cheeses, flowers, and artisanal goods. It’s an ideal spot to gather supplies for your Fourth of July picnic. The market is a display of Nantucket’s community spirit and dedication to sustainability.

Simultaneously, from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm, enjoy the Food Truck Market and live music from the ACK Tones on Federal Street, between Main and India Streets. Strolling through Nantucket's historic cobblestone streets while enjoying local food and music provides a true American holiday feel.

At 10:00 am, attend the reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Unitarian Church, located at 11 Orange Street. This historic tradition offers a poignant reminder of the day’s significance and is a great way to start your celebrations with a touch of patriotism.

The highlight for families is at noon, with the water competition between the Nantucket Fire Department and the Boynton Lane Reserves on Main Street, between Federal and Orange Streets. This fun and spirited competition is perfect for kids and adults alike and showcases the community’s camaraderie and festive spirit.

Children’s Beach Activities

Children’s Beach is the hub for family-friendly activities throughout the day. Alongside yard games like Cornhole, Matt Fee Tea Toss, face painting, and bubble blowing, there are scheduled events to keep the little ones entertained.

The festivities begin at 10:00 am with P.J. Moody singing the National Anthem and other patriotic songs. This is followed by a Nanpuppet Show at 10:30 am, another singalong with P.J. Moody at 11:00 am, and a fun bike parade at 11:30 am.

The afternoon features children’s games on the beach starting at 5:00 pm. The games include three-legged races, wheelbarrow races, potato sack races, and a thrilling tug-of-war. These activities guarantee a day full of laughter and joy for families celebrating the Fourth of July.

Fireworks at Jetties Beach

The grand finale of the Fourth of July in Nantucket is the fireworks display at Jetties Beach. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the beach’s festive atmosphere. From 6:00 pm, NRTA Wave buses will shuttle attendees from the Whaling Museum to the corner of Bathing Beach Road and Hulbert Avenue. They run every 20 minutes.

The fireworks show begins at 9:00 pm and lasts for 25-27 minutes, lighting up the sky with a dazzling array of colors and patterns. This breathtaking display over the ocean is the perfect way to cap off a day of celebration to leave you with lasting memories of Independence Day on Nantucket.

While the Fourth of July in Nantucket is packed with scheduled activities, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the island's natural beauty and charm. Take a stroll through the town, visit local shops, or simply relax on one of the many beautiful beaches.

Nantucket's Fourth of July celebrations are a blend of tradition, community, and fun. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the island offers a perfect backdrop for celebrating Independence Day. So, gather your family and friends, and join the festivities for a truly unforgettable experience.