In most years, when we are wondering what’s happening on Nantucket we are looking for unique island experiences in addition to vacationing in one of New England’s quintessential small towns surrounded by beaches, lighthouses, whaling homes, and cobblestone streets. This year, we are googling what’s happening on Island… virtually, that is. While some have been able to make it to the Nantucket this season, others may be planning for next year – but we all still can be part of the festivities and culture on the Island.
This year, many businesses and organizations have adapted to the new normal of virtual meetings, lectures, and tours and here are a few virtual experiences worth highlighting.
Boston Pops for NantucketÂ
The Pops Concert, an annual celebration for 24 years held on Jetties Beach to support Nantucket Cottage Hospital, was a little different this year with a video presentation. This 45 minute show features a wonderful video collaboration of multiple Nantucket musicians joining together to sing Lean on Me, previous musical performances by Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra from the Hatch Shell – including the iconic 1812 and Stars and Stripes – along with Nantucket fireworks.
Boston Pops for Nantucket: August 8, 2020 from Nantucket Cottage Hospital on Vimeo.
Nantucket Atheneum
The Nantucket Atheneum offers virtual programs that range from informative classes and workshops to entertaining evenings of trivia, theater and music. For upcoming programs please check out their calendar and past recordings on their  YouTube Channel.
White Heron Theater
This summer, our neighbors, the White Heron Theater, is offering The Ghost Light Series, podcast series based on Blue Balliett’s ghost stories. Their acting company performs in the podcast in the style of an old fashioned radio show and brings life to these classic Nantucket ghost stories.
Maria Mitchell
Maria Mitchell offers 2020 Science Speaker Series online as well as home learning activities for children. Each Wednesday at 7:00 pm, the Maria Mitchell Association will host a science lecture via Zoom. The topics will vary across the sciences.
Upcoming Event: Tim Russert Summer Groove
Annually the The Nantucket Boys & Girls Club hosts the biggest fundraiser and the best dance party of the year: the Tim Russert Summer Groove. This year the Boys and Girls club has decided to hold a unique, virtual experience in lieu of a face-to-face Summer Groove. This virtual event will still be held on Saturday, August 15th. Click to learn more.Â
If this doesn’t have you missing the Island, then make sure to get your daily dose of Nantucket by viewing the live webcam perched on top of the Observation deck of the Nantucket Whaling Museum.
