ONE YEAR LATER- A GREATER FOCUS ON THE OUTDOORS

(and what better place to be than on the beautiful island and beaches of Nantucket)

 

The word April was derived from the Latin word Aperit, which means open.  And a year later, the COVID vaccines roll-out, there is a sweet reawakening in Nantucket and in our world - marked by cleansing April showers, warmer breezes and the opening of spring flowers, businesses, and hearts.  We feel it intrinsically in a slow and then blossoming sense of hope for a return to a more traditional existence this season.  Perhaps it took a pandemic to highlight something we all innately knew but have never appreciated the way we do now- how connected we all are to each other and to the earth, how fortunate we have been to enjoy a lifetime of hugs and smiles.  We emerge from 2020 with 20/20 clarity and an ever present sense of gratitude that colors every small step forward.  The world is different now.  The earth is healthier, air quality vastly improved, and sunrises and sunsets more intensely beautiful.  Any in-person interactions, even with acquaintances, feel like reunions, something longed for and cherished.  Those with family and friends bring both laughter and tears.  The return of repeat guests to our inn and to our island is, to us, a homecoming, anticipated with joy and appreciation.  How different this April is from last April in both its sense of hope, freedom and rebirth.  2020 has changed us in some important ways and the ability to see the world and the people we know and meet in a new light, with a new perspective, is a rebirth and a gift.  April marks a new beginning for all of us.

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything ~William Shakespeare

One positive and well-received response by the Town of Nantucket to COVID was the closure of streets in the downtown area, creating oases for European-style outdoor dining.  As restaurants reopen this year, the downtown is peppered with umbrellas and planters, people gathering in a socially distanced outdoor way, and enhanced by the wafting smells of a multitude of culinary offerings.  Daffodil decorations add touches of yellow and green, reminding us that even though the iconic celebration will be virtual this year, spring is on its way and the holiday remains very much a part of the fabric of our community. 

Bill Hoenk Photography

Luckily for the island and its visitors, a tremendous part of Nantucket’s charm is the innate beauty of the island itself -- its beaches, trails (walking and biking), boutiques and cobbled streets. In the past month, the beaches of Nantucket have been cited in several articles as some of the most beautiful beaches in the country and in the world, making the island the subject of many bucket lists.  See what Travel & Leisure’s travelers had to say about Nantucket – “one of the world’s most romantic islands”.  And check out what travelers such as yourselves had to say on TripAdvisor about the BEST 15 Things To Do In Nantucket.

Other major draws include the island’s history and culture, and our museums and theatres and tours remain open for socially distanced exploration.  The island is also known for its sustainable farms, conservation lands and open-mic brewery, which are also must-sees.  And finally, Nantucket is renowned for its events and festivals. 

 

Courtesy NFF

While some events have been moved to a virtual setting (or postponed) this year, many are still slated to happen.  The Nantucket Film Festival, #NFF2021, takes place June 17-28.  The 26th annual Festival will feature a robust program of online screenings, as well as drive-in screenings and intimate garden screenings and conversations.  All in-person gatherings are being planned in compliance with local and state public safety guidelines.  

The Nantucket Garden Festival will lend an added festivity to the summer July 13-15.  Connie Q. Umberger, Nantucket Lighthouse School grandmother and former Chair of the Board founded the Nantucket Garden Festival as a fundraiser for the Nantucket Lighthouse School, which has long used gardens and gardening as an educational tool.  Throughout the years, the Festival has celebrated island gardening through informative workshops, exquisite garden tours, educational and inspirational keynote addresses, creative family activities, parties and more.

 

The Nantucket Comedy Festival, founded by headliner Kevin Flynn in 2007, is an annual summer event that brings top comedic talent to Nantucket Island as the major fundraiser for Stand Up & Learn™. This year’s Nantucket Comedy Festival, slated for July 15-17, again highlights Nantucket as a community connected by laughter.  They assure you, you will "laugh your ACK off".

Courtesy Nantucket Comedy Festival

The Boston Pops community gathering on Jetties Beach to support our Nantucket Cottage Hospital has been a tradition for 24 years.  The program features the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and is scheduled for August 14, 2021.  What better way to spend a sultry summer night than at a concert, surfside. 

Courtesy TWN

The Theatre Workshop of Nantucket (TWN) will be announcing details of their 65^th Season soon!  You can sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date on the latest announcements and developments. 

 

Come home to the Martin House Inn as your base to explore the beautiful Island of Nantucket.  Mention SPRING AHEAD for a discount on a new reservation of up to 20% for April stays: 10% for two nights, 15% for three nights, 20% for four nights.