Epic photo by Nantucket Magazine
This weekend is the 45th Annual Nantucket Daffodil Festival! I am so sad to be missing Daffy this year, but it’s for a good reason: my nephew is turning one on Saturday!
If you go, you should make a weekend out of it. But you can still experience a lot of fun by going on the main day, Saturday.
Daffodil Weekend is one of my two favorite weekends (after Stroll). The whole of town is decorated in yellow, and most of the people are too! Saturday is such a fun day!
Tip: Grab a free copy of Nantucket Magazine at the ferry and a Daffy guide, and make a plan!
Tip: Whether you are staying over or gong for the day, being layers- cardigan, raincoat, sweater and an umbrella. When I went two years ago, it was supposed to pour and it was gorgeous! I left some stuff in a friend’s car. Last year it was supposed to be freezing and I came wearing multiple layers. I changed from pants to a skirt!
Some things not to miss:
The Hat Pageant- on Children’s Beach at 10:45 a.m. Handmade creations that are truly wonderful. It is judged and prizes are given out! You can walk there from town, and on your way to Brandt Point lighthouse.
Brandt Point Lighthouse. You’ll see it from the ferry, with a giant wreath of Daffodils! You can walk there from town. It’s about a mile each way.
Daffy Festival Antique Car Parade on Main Street. Starts at 9:30 a.m. See the antique cars and watch them as the do a loop at noon around town and then head out to Sconset.
Take a cab, bike or drive, but get out to Sconset after the parade has headed out. Not only is it my favorite place on the island, but the cars and people line up for an epic tailgating parade that you have to see to believe. Many of the tailgaters compete for the best display, and again, you have to see it to believe it.
And while you are out there, visit Sankaty Lighthouse, which is surrounded by Daffodils! Note: unless you want to walk about 6 miles, you’ll need to drive/cab/Uber.
Don’t forget to hit the shops in town. Shops compete for best window display, and it’s so lovely and happy!
Peachtree Nantucket photo by Peachtree Nantucket
There is also a Daffy Dog Parade at noon, Daffodil Flower Show at Bartlett Farm (free shuttle from town), walks, yoga, culinary events and wine tastings.
If you have time, head out to Cisco Brewers for drinks, raw bar, fun eats and music.
Many restaurants are open, but also booked. Nantucket Culinary is a great option to experience Daffy. The Nantucket has a 3 course prix fixe menu at Breeze. Dune is a favorite, but good luck. And new restaurant Or, The Whale looks great!
Have so much fun if you go! And if you can’t make it this year, put it in the calendar for next year.
Xxoo,
Jen