12 Best Activities In Nantucket During October

things to do in nantucket in october

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, the charming island of Nantucket transforms into a peaceful paradise. This picturesque destination offers a plethora of exciting and unique activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the month of October. From indulging in local delicacies to witnessing stunning fall foliage, here are the 12 best activities that you simply cannot miss during your autumnal escape to Nantucket.

Activity Description
Cranberry Festival Celebrate the harvest season with fresh cranberries, samples, and live music
Whaling Museum Explore Nantucket's rich maritime history through interactive exhibits
Bike Tour Take a scenic bike tour of the island and enjoy the fall foliage
Ghost Tours Discover Nantucket's haunted history with a guided ghost tour through the island
Fishing Charters Try your luck with a fishing charter and catch the local striped bass or bluefish
Fall Restaurant Week Sample the island's cuisine with prix fixe menus at participating restaurants
Whaling History Walking Tour Learn about Nantucket's whaling past with a walking tour through the historic district
Nantucket Grown Food Festival Indulge in locally sourced food and beverages at this annual festival

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Fall foliage bike tour

Fall
Source: Jordan Real Estate

Fall is a wonderful time to visit Nantucket Island, and there are few things better than experiencing the fall foliage by bike. With the changing leaves, crisp air, and stunning scenery, a fall foliage bike tour in Nantucket is a must-do.

To start your tour, you can rent bikes from several providers on the island. Once you have your bike, head out on one of the many bike paths that crisscross the island. You can choose the routes that best match your skill level, but it’s recommended to explore the Sconset Loop, the Katama Loop, and the Polpis Loop to take in the island’s stunning fall scenery.

The Sconset Loop is an excellent starting point, showcasing fantastic views of the Atlantic coast along the way. It’s a 9-mile route that explores the small village of Siasconset with its charming rose-covered cottages, picturesque bluff-walks, and quaint shopping areas. The ride is mostly flat, and there are several spots to stop and take photos or to grab a bite to eat.

The Katama Loop, on the other hand, is an 18-mile ride that offers more challenging terrain. You’ll explore the south shore of the island, encountering jaw-dropping landscapes that leave you breathless. The route takes you through Katama farm, Edgartown Great Pond, and Norton Point Beach, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the panoramic coastline that Nantucket is famous for.

Finally, the Polpis Loop is another excellent option on Nantucket Island. It takes you through the hidden and tranquil parts of the island, and there are several chances to see wildlife around the Polpis Harbor. Along the route, you will pass by the oldest house on Nantucket Island, the Sherburne House, and the iconic salt pond known for its oyster farms.

In conclusion, fall is a fantastic time to explore Nantucket Island through a bike tour. You’ll be surrounded by stunning autumnal landscapes and the crisp air that accompanies the fall season. With several excellent bike routes on the island, you can choose the one that best suits your skills and enjoy the extraordinary views that Nantucket offers during the season. So, make sure to grab a bike and hit the trails to experience the best of Nantucket in October.

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Cranberry Festival

Cranberry
Source: Nantucket.net Blog

As the leaves turn golden brown and the air starts to feel crisp, Nantucket Island welcomes the fall season with open arms. October is a great time to visit the island as the crowds subside and the beaches and trails offer stunning views of nature’s beauty. However, there is one event in October that you simply cannot miss – the Cranberry Festival!

The Cranberry Festival is an annual event that takes place on Columbus Day weekend (October 9-11, 2021). The festival is a celebration of the cranberry harvest season and has been held for over 25 years. It is a great opportunity for visitors to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage as well as indulge in delicious cranberry flavors.

If you’re planning to attend the festival, be sure to check out the many events that are scheduled throughout the weekend. One of the main highlights of the festival is the Cranberry Bog Tours, where visitors can witness the harvesting of cranberries up close. The tours take place on Saturday morning and afternoon, and Sunday morning, and tickets must be purchased in advance.

In addition to the bog tours, there are many other events that take place throughout the weekend, including live music performances, cooking demonstrations, and a farmers’ market. Visitors can also enjoy cranberry-inspired foods, such as cranberry muffins, cranberry scones, and cranberry fritters.

The festival is a family-friendly event and there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. They can participate in the bog tours or attend the children’s festival, where there are games, face painting, and a bounce house.

Overall, the Cranberry Festival is an event that has something for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Nantucket Island, as well as indulge in delicious cranberry treats. So, pack your bags and head to Nantucket this October to celebrate the Cranberry Festival!

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Sunset beach bonfire

Sunset
Source: Elevate Youth

Nantucket in October is the perfect time of year to enjoy the island's crisp autumn air, beautiful scenery and quiet beaches. One of the best ways to experience the magic of this island in the fall is to gather around a sunset beach bonfire. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the colorful sky provides a stunning backdrop to the warm glow of the bonfire on the beach.

There are many secluded spots around the island where you can set up your own private beach bonfire. Simply pack a picnic basket with some snacks and drinks and head to the beach. Make sure to check Nantucket's fire regulations before lighting the bonfire. You'll need a permit and you'll also need to make sure you build the fire in a designated area, away from sand dunes and foliage.

If you prefer a more organized beach bonfire experience, there are several popular locations on the island where you can join others and enjoy the beautiful sunset together. One of the most popular spots is Jetties Beach, located on the north shore of the island. It's a great place to enjoy a bonfire, especially during the off-season.

If you're staying at one of the island's luxury resorts or hotels, you may find that they offer their own beach bonfire experiences. They'll typically provide everything you need to enjoy the evening, from the firewood to the chairs to sit on. They may even offer some delicious snacks and beverages as well.

Regardless of where you choose to have your beach bonfire, you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Nantucket. The cool, crisp air and the sound of the waves will create a memorable experience. Be sure to bring some extra layers to stay warm as the temperature drops in the evening.

A Nantucket beach bonfire is a magical way to enjoy one of the most beautiful places on earth. It's the perfect opportunity to spend time with loved ones, make new friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack up your picnic basket, grab some blankets, and head to the beach for a sunset bonfire this October on Nantucket.

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Whale watching

Whale
Source: New England Inns and Resorts

Nantucket in October is a beautiful time to visit the island, with stunning autumn foliage and cooler temperatures making for the perfect outdoor experience. One popular activity that many visitors partake in is whale watching. Nantucket is known for having some of the best whale watching experiences in the country, and October is a great time to see these magnificent creatures up close.

One of the most exciting aspects of whale watching in Nantucket is the chance to see humpback whales up close. These massive creatures can grow up to 50 feet in length and weigh as much as 50 tons, and seeing them breach the water is a truly awe-inspiring experience. In addition to humpbacks, visitors may also see other types of whales, including minke and fin whales.

When planning a whale watching trip to Nantucket in October, it is important to dress appropriately for the cooler temperatures. Dress in layers, and bring a warm jacket or sweater, particularly if you will be out on the water early in the morning or late in the day. Don't forget a pair of binoculars, and be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, as the sun can still be strong during this time of year.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience during your visit to Nantucket in October, consider taking a whale watching tour. With humpbacks and other whale species visible off the coast, and knowledgeable guides to provide insight into these creatures and their habitat, this is an activity that is sure to please visitors of all ages. So book your tour today, and get ready to experience the majesty of these magnificent creatures like never before.

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Ghost tour

Ghost
Source: Tripadvisor

Nantucket in October is a time when the island is quieter, and the crowds have thinned out. However, this does not mean that there is less to see and do. In fact, it is the perfect time to take a ghost tour of the island.

Nantucket has a rich history, and with history often comes tales of hauntings and ghosts. The ghost tour takes visitors through the narrow streets and alleys of the town, where they will hear spooky tales of whaling captains, lost sailors, and even a haunted inn.

The tour starts at dusk, adding to the eerie atmosphere, and the guides, dressed in period costume, help to transport visitors back in time. The tour lasts around an hour and a half and is suitable for all ages.

The first stop on the tour is the Old North Cemetery, where visitors will hear tales of Captain Kezia Coffin, a notorious witch who was executed in 1673. The guide will point out Coffin's grave and the unmarked grave of a child who is said to have died in mysterious circumstances.

Next up is the Quaker Cemetery, where visitors will hear stories of the island's most famous ghost, The Blue Lady. The Blue Lady is said to haunt the cemetery, and many visitors have reported seeing her at night. The guide will tell the story of how she came to be and the tragedy that led to her haunting the island.

The tour then takes visitors down to the harbor, where they will see the Old Gaol, where prisoners were kept in appalling conditions. The guide will regale visitors with tales of a prisoner who escaped and was never seen again.

The tour ends at The Jared Coffin House, a historic building that has been converted into a hotel. The guide will tell visitors about the ghost that is said to haunt room 19, the former home of a whaling captain who died under mysterious circumstances.

In conclusion, Nantucket in October is a great time to visit the island, and a ghost tour is an excellent way to explore the town's history and spooky legends. With knowledgeable guides and a wealth of ghostly tales, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience. So book your tickets now and get ready for a night to remember.

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Cranberry bog tours

Cranberry
Source: Tradewind Aviation

Nantucket island may be well known for its beautiful beaches and sunny summer weather, but there's plenty to see and do in the fall, too. Throughout the month of October, visitors to the island have the opportunity to take part in cranberry bog tours and learn about the island's unique agricultural history.

Cranberries have been grown on Nantucket for over 150 years, and the island's bogs have long been a source of pride for its residents. The Nantucket Conservation Foundation offers guided tours of some of the island's most important bogs, providing visitors with fascinating insights into the history and culture of Nantucket's cranberry industry.

One of the best things about cranberry bog tours is the chance to see the harvesting process up close. Cranberries are typically harvested from mid-September to mid-October, and visitors can watch as the berries are harvested by hand, with workers standing in waist-high water to scoop the floating berries into boats. It's a unique and unforgettable experience to see this process in action and to learn about the techniques that have been used for generations.

In addition to watching the harvesting process, visitors on cranberry bog tours will also learn about the history of cranberry farming on Nantucket, and the challenges that the industry has faced over the years. By the late 1800s, Nantucket was one of the top producers of cranberries in the country, thanks to its unique growing conditions and the hard work of local farmers. However, in the 1900s, competition from other cranberry-producing regions and a series of natural disasters caused the industry to decline.

Today, only a handful of bogs remain in operation on the island, but they continue to produce some of the most flavorful cranberries around. Walking through these bogs, visitors can see the intricate network of dikes and waterways that are used to manage water levels and create the perfect growing conditions for the berries.

If you're planning a trip to Nantucket in October, be sure to add a cranberry bog tour to your itinerary. It's a unique and fascinating way to learn about the island's history and experience a side of Nantucket that few visitors get to see.

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Pumpkin picking

Pumpkin
Source: The Westmoor Club

As the leaves turn from green to a beautiful array of orange, yellow, and red, Nantucket Island is the perfect place to visit for a fall getaway. October is particularly special, as the island is bustling with activities to celebrate the harvest season. One of the most cherished activities, especially for families, is pumpkin picking. Here are some of the best spots to visit for an unforgettable pumpkin picking experience.

Bartlett's Farm

Bartlett's farm is a must-visit destination for pumpkin lovers. Located just outside of town, this farm offers acres of fields lined with orange pumpkins waiting to be picked. You can choose a pumpkin that fits your preference- from small cute ones to big ones great for carving jack-o-lanterns. The farm offers horse-drawn wagon rides and pony rides for children, making it the perfect family outing.

Pumpkin Pond Farm

For a more authentic farm experience, visit Pumpkin Pond Farm, tucked away in the middle of the island. This cozy family farm offers a more intimate pumpkin picking experience. You can take a walk through the fields, pick your perfect pumpkin and head over to the farm store for a delicious snack. The farm offers mouth-watering freshly baked cider donuts, hot apple cider, and other goodies that are perfect for a chilly October day.

Siasconset Market

Siasconset Market is another great place to visit for pumpkin picking. Located in the quintessential village of Siasconset, this market offers everything from fresh produce to flowers. In addition to offering a wide variety of pumpkins of different colors, shapes, and sizes, the market also offers fresh pies and other baked goods for those looking for a tasty treat after their pumpkin picking journey.

No matter which spot you choose to visit for pumpkin picking, Nantucket Island will leave you with unforgettable memories. From picturesque landscapes to delicious treats, it is the perfect fall destination. Make sure to plan your visit in advance and check with the farms for hours of operation and availability. Happy pumpkin picking!

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Nantucket Arts Festival

Nantucket
Source: Artists Association of Nantucket

The Nantucket Arts Festival features an eclectic mix of art, music, theater, and dance events. The festival showcases the best of local and regional talent, including established and emerging artists. Visitors to the festival can expect to see an impressive array of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and photography.

The Arts Festival also features live performances, workshops, and exhibitions throughout the island. Attendees can attend a poetry reading, take a painting class, or try their hand at pottery making. Arts Festival's Nantucket Nightlife even features a rock concert that showcases local and regional musicians. There's something for everyone at the Nantucket Arts Festival, regardless of your personal interests.

The Nantucket Arts Festival is a perfect outing for art lovers and culture seekers, but it's also an excellent opportunity for families. There are plenty of events aimed at entertaining children, including storytelling hours, puppet shows, and hands-on arts and crafts activities. The festival's open house events allow children and their parents to tour the island's historic homes and museums.

Nantucket is also known for its breathtaking scenery, and the Arts Festival is a great time to explore this fantastic location. The island features some of the most stunning beaches in the country, miles of hiking trails, and fascinating historical landmarks. Visitors can take a bike ride into town, grab lunch at a quaint café, or take a sunset cruise around the harbor. Nantucket Island is a place of remarkable beauty, and there's no better time to experience it than during the Arts Festival.

In conclusion, the Nantucket Arts Festival is a world-class event that celebrates the vibrant culture and art of Nantucket Island. Visitors can expect to enjoy a wide range of activities that offer something for everyone. From music to theater to painting, there is no shortage of creative and immersive activities to enjoy at the festival. Additionally, it's an excellent chance for families to explore the island's natural beauty and historic landmarks. So if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience this October, there's no better place to visit than Nantucket Island during the Nantucket Arts Festival.

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Historic walking tour

Historic
Source: Wade Tours

Nantucket in October offers the perfect opportunity to take a peaceful and scenic walk around the island. While there are many different routes to explore, one of the most popular is the historic walking tour. This tour not only allows you to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh sea air, but it also provides an incredible insight into the island's rich history.

Begin your historic walking tour at the Whaling Museum, located in downtown Nantucket. The museum is an incredible starting point, as it provides a glimpse into the island's fascinating whaling past. The exhibits showcase the lives of sailors and the harsh realities of this industry. After exploring the museum, head to the nearby cobblestone streets of the downtown area.

As you make your way around downtown Nantucket, you'll find an array of beautifully preserved historic architecture. Marvel at the elegant homes with their pristine gardens and white picket fences, built by some of the island's wealthiest residents in the 19th century. One such home is the Jethro Coffin House, which was built in 1686 and is one of the oldest homes in the nation.

Continue on to Main Street, where you can see the First Congregational Church, built in 1725, and the Pacific National Bank, built in 1812. The streets are lined with quaint shops that give you a glimpse into the island's culture and traditions. Keep an eye out for the signs that indicate historic landmarks along the way.

Your walking tour will also take you through neighborhoods and village centers, providing an opportunity to experience the local lifestyle on the island. One such village center is Siasconset, which is located on the eastern end of the island. The picturesque village is home to quaint cottages with rose-covered fences and perfectly manicured lawns.

As you walk around the island, you'll be able to appreciate the natural beauty of Nantucket. The island is known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and winding trails. Some of the must-visit locations include the Brant Point Lighthouse, which dates back to 1746, and the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, a vital conservation area on the island.

In conclusion, a historic walking tour of Nantucket is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the island's intriguing history while breathing in the fresh sea air and taking in the stunning scenery. Nantucket's historic landmarks, architecture, and natural beauty will leave you enchanted and longing to explore more.

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Wine tasting

Wine
Source: Jordan Real Estate

Nantucket is a scenic island located off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Many visitors flock to this island during the summer months to enjoy the beaches, shopping, and water sports. However, October also brings its own charm to Nantucket, and one of the activities that should not be missed is wine tasting.

The island of Nantucket has a rich history of winemaking. Cranberry bogs and the local farm produce a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. Some of the oldest grapevines on this island have been around since the 1970s, and they produce some of the best wine in the region.

Visitors can start their wine-tasting excursion by visiting the island's wineries. One of the popular wineries is Cisco Brewers. It is not only a brewery, but it also has a winery and a distillery. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery while learning about the grapes that Cisco Brewers uses to make their wines. The gift shop is stocked with a variety of wines, beer, spirits, and souvenirs.

Bartlett's Farm is another stop that should not be missed. It is a family-run farm that produces its wine from grapes grown on the farm. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in the farm store and learn about the different wines produced by the farm. This farm also offers visitors to experience other wine-related activities, such as grape stomping and harvest tours.

If you are staying in town and cannot make it to either of the vineyards, you can still try some of the best wines in town at any of the local restaurants. The American Seasons is a fine-dining restaurant that offers some of the best wine collections on the island. The restaurant offers a comprehensive wine list, including some of the rarest wines from different vineyards on the island.

Nantucket is the perfect destination for a wine-tasting experience in October. The temperature is mild, and the wineries and vineyards are less crowded. This time of year, visitors can also participate in the annual wine festivals, where they can taste different kinds of wine from different vineyards. Overall, wine tasting on Nantucket is an unforgettable experience, and visitors are sure to be impressed by the variety, quality, and taste of the wines produced on this lovely island.

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Harvest Dinner

Harvest
Source: Seven Sea Street Inn

Nantucket in October is a beautiful place to be, with stunning fall foliage, crisp weather, and plenty of exciting activities to partake in. One of the most anticipated events of the season is the annual Harvest Dinner, hosted by local farms and restaurants.

The Harvest Dinner is a celebration of all things autumn, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional New England cuisine. The dinner is typically held outdoors, in one of the island's stunning fields or meadows, and is lit by twinkling string lights and glowing lanterns.

The menu for the Harvest Dinner changes each year, depending on what is in season and what local farms have to offer. However, there are some classic dishes that are always included, such as roasted pumpkin soup, apple cider braised pork, and crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon.

The meal is served family-style, with guests passing around platters of food and filling their plates with whatever looks most delicious. There is an emphasis on community and connection at the Harvest Dinner, with friends and strangers alike coming together to share a meal and celebrate the bounty of the fall harvest.

In addition to the incredible food, the Harvest Dinner also features live music, dancing, and other entertainment. Local bands and musicians perform throughout the evening, and guests are encouraged to get up and dance the night away under the stars.

Tickets for the Harvest Dinner typically sell out quickly, so it's important to plan ahead and purchase them in advance. While the event is certainly a splurge, it is a one-of-a-kind experience that is not to be missed.

Overall, Nantucket in October is an absolute delight, with the Harvest Dinner being one of the highlights of the season. Whether you're a local or a visitor to the island, this event is a must-attend for anyone who loves good food, good music, and good company.

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Scenic drive along the coast

Scenic
Source: Feathers & Stripes

Nantucket Island in October is a stunning sight. With the leaves beginning to turn and the cool, crisp air, there's no better time to take a scenic drive along the coast. The island's narrow winding roads provide endless opportunities to take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Sound.

One of the most popular routes to take is the Sconset Bluff Walk. This three-mile walk takes you along the eastern shore of the island and provides uninterrupted views of the Atlantic. The walk starts from Sconset Village and continues through the Sankaty Head Lighthouse. The walk is an easy stroll and is great for those who want to experience the island's natural beauty without any effort.

Another route to take is the Polpis Road Scenic Drive. This 12-mile route takes you through some of the island's most picturesque villages and provides stunning views of the Nantucket Sound. The drive starts from the center of Nantucket and continues through the small villages of Quidnet and Wauwinet. Along the way, you'll be able to see lighthouses, salt marshes, and Quaise Harbor.

If you're looking for a more challenging route, then the route up to Altar Rock is perfect for you. The route takes you to the highest point on the island and provides panoramic views of the island and the ocean. The route is a mix of steep hills, winding roads, and open fields. It's a great route to take if you want to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

No matter what route you take, be sure to take your time and soak in the island's natural beauty. Nantucket Island is a special place, and the best way to experience it is by taking a scenic drive along the coast. October is the perfect time to do so as the crowds have thinned out, and the island is calmer. So, go ahead, take a drive, and experience the magic of Nantucket Island in October.

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Frequently asked questions

Answer: Nantucket offers plenty of exciting activities during October, including hiking, biking, and exploring historic boutiques in the charming downtown area. You can also visit the local farm and try some freshly pressed cider, attend a spooky-themed Halloween party, or catch the annual Autumnal Equinox Sunset Cruise.

Answer: The temperatures during October can be cooler in Nantucket, but it's usually still comfortable enough to enjoy many outdoor activities. You'll want to pack layers and a warm jacket, but you can still enjoy exploring the island's outdoor trails, visiting the beach, and participating in fall festivals.

Answer: Yes, there are several fall festivals and events happening in Nantucket during October, including the Cranberry Festival, the Nantucket Restaurant Week, and the Harvest Dinner. You can also attend the local Farmers' Market, check out the local art galleries, or take a guided tour of the island's historic lighthouses.

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4 Comments

OL

Oliver James

I just got back from a trip to Nantucket in October and it was absolutely breathtaking! One of the best things to do during this time is to take a bike ride around the island and take in the stunning fall foliage. I also highly recommend visiting the Whaling Museum and taking a stroll down Main Street to explore the charming local shops and restaurants. Don't forget to try the fresh seafood - the oysters are to die for!
MA

Maxwell Lindsey

October is such a magical time to visit Nantucket! One of my favorite things to do during this month is to take a scenic drive along the coast and admire the changing colors of the leaves. Another must-do activity is taking a guided tour of the lighthouses - the views from the top are simply breathtaking. And if you're a foodie like me, make sure to check out the local farm-to-table restaurants that offer seasonal dishes using fresh ingredients from the island. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
CA

Carlo Fitzpatrick

I've been visiting Nantucket in October for the past few years and it has become my favorite time to go. The weather is still mild, perfect for long walks on the beach and exploring the island's beautiful nature. One of the highlights for me is the Cranberry Festival, where you can pick your own cranberries and enjoy live music and local food. And let's not forget about the autumn sunsets - they are absolutely magical!
I'm so glad to hear that you've discovered the beauty of Nantucket in October! It truly is a special time to visit. The mild weather allows for leisurely beach walks and taking in the island's stunning natural scenery. I agree that the Cranberry Festival is a must-visit event, with its unique opportunity to pick your own cranberries and enjoy local delights while listening to live music. And of course, those autumn sunsets are truly magical - they paint the sky with breathtaking hues of orange and gold. It sounds like you've found the perfect time to experience all that Nantucket has to offer!

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