Nantucket Cranberry Festival

A History of Cranberries on Nantucket

Cranberries have been part of Nantucket's story for centuries. Native Americans harvested wild cranberries long before European settlement, using them for food, medicine, and dye. The Wampanoag people called the berry "sassamanesh" and shared their knowledge with early colonists.

Commercial cranberry cultivation on Nantucket began in the mid-1800s, coinciding with the decline of the island's whaling industry. Enterprising islanders recognized that Nantucket's acidic, sandy soil and abundant freshwater ponds created ideal growing conditions. At its peak in the early 20th century, Nantucket had over 200 acres of cranberry bogs, making it a significant player in Massachusetts' cranberry industry.

Today, while commercial production has decreased, Nantucket's cranberry heritage remains an important part of island identity. The Milestone Cranberry Bog, managed by the Nantucket Conservation Foundation, continues the tradition and serves as the centerpiece of the annual festival, connecting visitors to this rich agricultural history.

The Milestone Cranberry Bog

The Milestone Cranberry Bog, located along Milestone Road about three miles from town, is Nantucket's largest and most accessible cranberry bog. Spanning over 200 acres of conservation land, the property includes active cranberry beds, walking trails, and pristine wetland habitats.

The bog takes its name from the historic milestones that once marked the road to Siasconset. Today, it represents one of the finest examples of traditional New England cranberry farming, using a combination of time-honored techniques and modern sustainable practices.

What Makes Cranberry Farming Unique

• Wet harvesting: Bogs are flooded and berries are knocked off vines, floating to the surface for collection
• Dry harvesting: Mechanical pickers comb through dry beds for fresh-market berries
• Year-round care: Bogs require careful water management, pest control, and frost protection
• Sandy soil: Cranberries thrive in acidic, nutrient-poor sandy soil - perfect for Nantucket
• Three-year cycle: New cranberry beds take three years to produce their first harvest

Festival Activities

The Cranberry Festival typically spans a weekend in mid-October, though the exact dates vary based on harvest conditions. The celebration offers something for everyone, from educational tours to family-friendly entertainment.

Bog Tours and Demonstrations

Guided tours led by Nantucket Conservation Foundation staff offer an insider's look at cranberry cultivation. Learn about the history of Nantucket's bogs, the science of cranberry growing, and modern harvesting techniques. Demonstrations may include:

• Wet harvest demonstrations showing berries floating on flooded bogs
• Dry harvest machinery in action
• Sorting and processing explanations
• Historical farming methods and tools
• Conservation and sustainability practices

Harvest Viewing

The visual highlight of the festival is watching the harvest itself. When bogs are flooded for wet harvesting, the sight of brilliant red cranberries floating on the water creates unforgettable photo opportunities. Viewing platforms and designated areas allow visitors to safely observe the action while workers corral the floating berries.

Cranberry-Themed Foods and Drinks

Local vendors and restaurants showcase cranberries in creative culinary applications throughout the festival:

• Fresh cranberry baked goods - muffins, scones, pies, and cookies
• Cranberry sauces, chutneys, and preserves
• Cranberry-infused cocktails and mocktails
• Hot and cold cranberry cider
• Cranberry ice cream and frozen treats
• Savory dishes featuring cranberry glazes and sauces

Live Music

Local musicians provide a festive soundtrack throughout the event. Expect a mix of acoustic performances, folk music, and family-friendly entertainment that complements the relaxed autumn atmosphere. Bring a blanket and enjoy the tunes while taking in the fall scenery.

Local Vendors

The festival features a marketplace of local artisans and producers:

• Nantucket-made cranberry products and gifts
• Local art featuring cranberry and harvest themes
• Handcrafted jewelry and accessories
• Island-made preserves, honey, and specialty foods
• Seasonal decorations and crafts
• Nantucket souvenirs and keepsakes

Kids Activities

The festival offers plenty to keep younger visitors entertained:

• Cranberry-themed arts and crafts
• Educational activities about bogs and wildlife
• Nature scavenger hunts
• Face painting and games
• Story time featuring cranberry tales
• Junior naturalist programs

When to Visit: Timing the Harvest

The Cranberry Festival typically takes place in mid-October, but the exact timing depends on growing conditions and harvest readiness. Cranberries are harvested when they reach optimal color and sugar content, which varies year to year based on weather patterns.

Planning Your Visit

• Check dates: Festival dates are usually announced in late summer - check the Nantucket Conservation Foundation website
• Weather contingency: Heavy rain or unusual conditions may affect scheduling
• Columbus Day weekend: The festival often coincides with this holiday weekend, which brings additional visitors
• Book early: October is popular for fall foliage; accommodations fill up fast
• Shoulder season pricing: While popular, October rates are generally lower than peak summer

Beyond Festival Weekend

Even outside festival dates, October visitors can enjoy the cranberry harvest season. The Milestone Bog property is open year-round for walking, and you may catch harvesting activity throughout October. The conservation foundation sometimes offers additional tours during harvest season.

Getting to the Bog

The Milestone Cranberry Bog is located approximately 3 miles from downtown Nantucket along Milestone Road, toward Siasconset.

Transportation Options

• Bike: A scenic 20-25 minute ride from town on the Milestone Bike Path. Bike racks available at the bog.
• Shuttle: Festival shuttles typically run from downtown during the event - check schedule
• NRTA Bus: The Sconset route passes near the bog; check current stops
• Car/Taxi: Limited parking available; carpooling encouraged
• Walking: Possible but lengthy (about 1 hour from downtown)

Parking

Parking at the bog is limited during the festival. Overflow parking and shuttle service from town are typically provided. Biking is strongly encouraged both for convenience and environmental reasons. If driving, arrive early to secure parking.

What to Bring

Come prepared to enjoy a full day outdoors in the October weather:

• Layers: October temperatures can vary from 50s to 70s; mornings are cool
• Comfortable walking shoes: Paths can be uneven and potentially muddy
• Waterproof footwear: Useful if walking near wet areas of the bog
• Camera: The floating cranberries and fall colors create amazing photos
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: October sun can still be strong
• Cash: Some vendors may not accept cards
• Reusable bag: For vendor purchases and cranberry products
• Picnic blanket: For enjoying music and taking in the scenery
• Water bottle: Stay hydrated
• Binoculars: For birdwatching - the bog attracts migratory species

Fall Foliage Bonus

October visitors enjoy Nantucket's beautiful autumn transformation. While the island doesn't have the dramatic hardwood forests of mainland New England, it offers its own unique fall palette:

• Cranberry bogs: Deep red berries against green and gold vegetation
• Moorlands: Heath and scrub oak turn bronze and russet
• Beaches: Beach grass turns golden, contrasting with deep blue water
• Town trees: Maples and oaks along historic streets show autumn colors
• Gardens: Late-blooming flowers and ornamental grasses

Best Foliage Spots

• Milestone Bog and surrounding conservation lands
• Sanford Farm walking trails
• Main Street and historic downtown
• Altar Rock for panoramic moorland views
• Siasconset village and bluff walks

Other October Activities on Nantucket

Extend your Cranberry Festival visit with other fall activities:

• Hiking: Perfect weather for exploring the island's trail network
• Beach walks: Uncrowded beaches offer peaceful autumn strolls
• Surfing: Fall swells bring excellent surf conditions at Surfside
• Whale watching: Humpback migration continues through October
• Historic sites: Fewer crowds at museums and landmarks
• Fishing: Prime season for striped bass and bluefish
• Seal watching: Grey seals become more visible in autumn
• Gallery hopping: Many galleries host fall exhibitions

Halloween on Nantucket

If visiting late October, catch Nantucket's Halloween festivities:

• Downtown trick-or-treating with costumed kids
• Decorated storefronts and historic homes
• Annual Halloween parade
• Costume parties at local venues
• Haunted history tours

Dining Featuring Cranberries

During October, many Nantucket restaurants embrace the harvest with cranberry-inspired dishes and seasonal menus:

Where to Find Cranberry Dishes

• The Proprietors: Creative cocktails featuring local cranberries
• American Seasons: Seasonal tasting menus with autumn ingredients
• Straight Wharf: Fresh seafood with cranberry accompaniments
• The Chanticleer: Elegant French cuisine with fall touches
• Island Kitchen: Farm-to-table dishes celebrating local harvest
• Brant Point Grill: New England classics with seasonal twists

Cranberry Products to Take Home

• Fresh cranberries (seasonal availability)
• Nantucket cranberry preserves and sauces
• Cranberry-scented candles and soaps
• Cranberry wine from local producers
• Dried cranberries and cranberry trail mix
• Cranberry recipe books

Shoulder Season Accommodation Deals

October falls within Nantucket's shoulder season, offering more affordable rates than peak summer while still providing excellent weather and plenty of activities.

What to Expect

• Rates: 20-40% lower than July/August at most properties
• Availability: More options, but Cranberry Festival weekend fills up
• Seasonal closures: Some properties close after Columbus Day; confirm openings
• Package deals: Many inns offer fall packages including breakfast and activities

Recommended Accommodations

• White Elephant: Luxury waterfront property, excellent fall packages
• The Wauwinet: Remote elegance, perfect for autumn relaxation
• Jared Coffin House: Historic downtown location, cozy autumn atmosphere
• Union Street Inn: Charming B&B with fall foliage garden views
• The Veranda House: Boutique hotel with seasonal specials
• Vacation rentals: Often available at reduced weekly rates in October

Booking Tips

• Reserve Cranberry Festival weekend accommodations 1-2 months ahead
• Ask about shoulder season packages and discounts
• Confirm restaurant and activity availability during your dates
• Consider mid-week stays for best rates
• Book directly with properties for potential upgrades