It’s Thanksgiving on Nantucket.

It can stay fairly warm here into the holidays, thanks to the island being enveloped by the Gulf Stream that influences the island’s climate. Beach activity is now a memory, except for walks and shell collecting. The most rewarding things to do now are visiting museums, taking in a show at the movie theater or one of the playhouses. Sightseeing tours and biking trips on the well-maintained bike paths stretching out to Polpis, Madaket and ‘Sconset can still be enjoyed, and best followed by a trip to a cozy coffee shop or restaurant.

Use our Calendar of Events to navigate your way through the island’s happenings this weekend.

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

SPECIAL EVENTS

There is an exception to the decrease in beach activity – the famous Turkey Plunge. This annual tradition greatly benefits the Weezie Library for Children at the Nantucket Atheneum – as well as just being great fun.
Hundreds of swimmers and spectators gather at Children’s Beach on Thanksgiving morning to watch a crowd of brave souls charge into the freezing harbor. Bring down some hot chocolate or coffee for a swimmer to help take the sting out from the cold water. Feeling brave this year? Join in and register at the library on 1 India Street, 508-228-1110 or online at www.nantucketatheneum.org.

Just a day before Thanksgiving, Nantucket Historical Association’s annual Festival of Wreaths opens to the public, following a preview party reception on Tuesday evening. This annual event at the Whaling Museum displays creative, hand-crafted wreaths decking the walls throughout the museum’s Candle Factory spaces.

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

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