Photo credit: Nantucket Current

Summer on Nantucket is more than just long beach days and scenic bike rides—it’s also the season when the island hosts some of its most iconic annual events. From cultural festivals to outdoor fundraisers, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the community and soak up the spirit of the island. If you’re planning a visit in 2025, here’s your guide to some of the top events to mark on your calendar.

Kicking off the season is the Nantucket Book Festival, running June 12–15, 2025. This literary weekend brings celebrated authors, poets, and readers together for a series of intimate talks, panel discussions, and book signings. Just days later, storytelling shifts from the page to the screen with the 30th Annual Nantucket Film Festival, happening June 25–30. Known for its focus on screenwriting, the festival offers a curated lineup of independent films, documentaries, and filmmaker Q&As in cozy island venues.

If you’re looking to get active while giving back, the Race for Open Space on June 28 is a can’t-miss event. The scenic run supports the Nantucket Conservation Foundation and takes participants through some of the island’s most beautiful preserved lands. Then, of course, comes one of the most anticipated days of the summer—Nantucket’s Fourth of July celebrations. From Main Street’s family-friendly activities to the fireworks over the harbor, Independence Day on the island is pure patriotic magic.

The fun continues in July with the Nantucket Garden Festival (July 8–10), where horticulture and sustainability come together through garden tours, floral workshops, and expert-led lectures. Running alongside it is the Nantucket Dance Festival (July 8–13), which brings world-class dancers and performances to the island for an amazing week of movement and artistry.

If you’re looking for laughter, the Nantucket Comedy Festival (July 10–12) is a summer favorite, drawing top comedians from around the country and supporting youth programs through Stand Up & Learn. That same weekend, the Night for Nantucket Harbor on July 12 combines celebration with conservation, raising critical funds to support the health and future of our island’s harbor.

Rounding out the July lineup is Nantucket by Design (July 14–17), hosted by the Nantucket Historical Association. This highly anticipated event celebrates the island’s distinctive style through curated panels, home tours, and designer receptions—perfect for anyone inspired by coastal living.

Photo credit: Nantucket Current

As we move into August, the island continues to buzz with events that bring together our community, culture, and celebration.

The month kicks off with NiSHA’s Great Catsby Gala on August 1, 2025—a lively evening supporting Nantucket Island Safe Harbor for Animals, complete with great food, entertainment, and a cause that’s easy to get behind.

The following week on August 6th, design enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 69th Annual House and Garden Tour, hosted by the Nantucket Garden Club. This beloved event offers a unique peek inside some of the island’s most beautiful homes and gardens. The next day, on August 7th the Nantucket Preservation Trust’s August Fête celebrates island history with walking tours and a festive evening block party in one of Nantucket’s historic neighborhoods, where you will be able to explore a preserved historic home not normally open to the public!

The excitement continues on August 9 with the Boston Pops on Nantucket, one of the island’s most iconic summer traditions. Held at Jetties Beach, this benefit concert for Nantucket Cottage Hospital pairs incredible live music with fireworks and unbeatable beach views. August 16 brings the Tim Russert Summer Groove, an uplifting event that supports mentoring programs for Nantucket’s youth, all while dancing the night away after a nice dinner by Island Kitchen.

And finally, wrap up the summer with one of Nantucket’s most picturesque traditions—the 53rd Opera House Cup Race on August 17. This stunning regatta of wooden sailboats is a true Nantucket classic and a must-see for locals and visitors alike.

With so many incredible events packed into just a few months, it’s no surprise that summer rentals go quickly. Whether you’re planning your trip around a favorite festival or simply want to enjoy the island at its liveliest, now’s the time to secure your Nantucket home base. Reach out to Lee Real Estate today to find the perfect property for your summer stay.

Explore some of our standout rental options we have available across the island:

272 Polpis

11 Swayze’s Drive

42.5 Union

321 Madaket Road

4 Saccacha

31 Shell Street

25 King Street

Contact us today to book your Nantucket vacation rental