Summer on Cape Cod is synonymous with a vibrant festival scene that transforms this idyllic coastal region into a hub of cultural celebration. From lively music and food festivals to patriotic pride, the Cape comes alive with a spirit of community.
Fourth of July is celebrated best with fireworks, and Cape Cod offers plenty of chances to enjoy them, whether you watch them from the ocean aboard the Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch in Provincetown or with a blanket on the sand at Falmouth Heights Beach. If you can’t wait for the holiday, start the celebration early with the fireworks, food trucks and family fun at the Mashpee Community Picnic & Fireworks (June 28), or catch the spectacular show over Rock Harbor in Orleans (July 2). American pride will also be showcased in parades in Barnstable, Chatham, Orleans, Provincetown, Sandwich, and Wellfleet. In Hyannis, the celebration takes place on both land and sea, starting with a downtown celebration featuring live performances, re-enactments and kids’ activities and ending at Hyannis Harbor, where a procession of boats decked out in a sea of red, white, and blue will wind their way around the inner harbor.
Locals get a chance to show off their horticultural prowess during the Cape Cod Hydrangea Fest, happening July 4-15. The festivities kick off on July 5th at Hyannis Country Garden’s Celebratory Opening Night Party, but the real highlight of the week is the 100+ private gardens throughout the Cape that will be open for tours. Tickets, sold separately for each tour, are $5, with the proceeds going to local nonprofits. Admire the seasonal blooms, but also make time for the workshops, painting demos and promotions happening throughout the fest.
The annual Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow (July 5-7) is a three-day celebration of Wampanoag culture and traditions, including performances from the Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers, selections of traditional Wampanoag food, and such events as fireball, clambakes, the Sly Fox Mishoon Race and a sunrise naming ceremony.
Nothing says summer on Cape Cod like the return of the Barnstable County Fair, which barrels into the Cape Cod Fairgrounds in East Falmouth July 22-28. Indulge all of your senses, from feeling the soft fur of animals at the petting zoos to listening to top-notch entertainers and indulging in classic fair food. Let your eyes take in gorgeous horticulture displays and 4-H demonstrations before your heart pounds watching the demolition derby and riding the many carnival attractions.
On July 28th, more than 100 Cape Cod artists, farmers, and businesses will come together to showcase their talents and wares at the Love Local Fest in Hyannis’s Aselton Park. Shopping local has never been more fun. The free event is soundtracked by local entertainment and features delicious offerings from food trucks and vendors.
The Woods Hole Film Festival returns for its 33rd year July 27-August 3, making it the oldest film festival on Cape Cod and the Islands. The festival, which takes place at locations throughout Woods Hole and Falmouth, highlights independent films through screenings, workshops, panel discussions, classes, and award ceremonies.
La Tavola, or “the table” in Italian, is a highly anticipated Italian feast under the stars hosted annually on Steeple Street at the Mashpee Commons (August 2). Treat yourself to a five-course Italian dinner catered by Villaggio Ristorante, while the sweet sounds of an Italian Tenor fill the air. With your belly full and ears still ringing from the music, return home knowing that you supported your local community; proceeds from the night benefit the Mashpee Chamber Scholarship Fund and #ShopMashpee campaign.
From the tenderness of prime rib to the sweetness of delectable cannolis, the Cape Cod Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival on August 10th has a treat for everyone. Whether you quench your thirst with freshly squeezed lemonade or choose from the large selection of regional and local craft beers, the festival promises an exquisite taste of New England. The event, held at the Cape Cod Fairgrounds, also offers live music and lawn games.
Ending the summer with a bang is the 46th Annual Provincetown Carnival (August 17-24). Renowned for its epic celebration of pride and community, this year’s festival will honor the theme of “Renaissance and Revolution” with pool parties, musicals, costume contests, and the larger-than-life parade (held on the Thursday of Carnival), featuring over-the-top performances and colorfully creative floats.
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