by Jeff Shaw
Quick disclaimer; there are tons of annual and notable events in each Cape Cod town. This three-part series seeks to highlight one of many notable events that could very easily be swapped in for what follows.
My goal is to actually attend each of these events this year, but as the old adage goes, the more the merrier. I hope to see you there!
Fourth of July Parade, Chatham
“One of the oldest town parades in the United States,” reads the event website homepage. While most people agree the [unofficial] summer season kicks off on Memorial Day Weekend, Fourth of July in Chatham may as well mark the [official] start. The Chatham Fourth of July Parade is an absolute gem of an annual event.
First, the public is encouraged to submit ideas for the annual parade theme to the Parade Committee. Second, best practices to build a “winning float” are actually listed on the website, including a video with five tips! And of course, a baker’s dozen worth of awards are made annually, including most patriotic, funniest, best family entry, best youth entry, etc.
As for onlookers, be sure to place your blanket or chair along the parade route by sunrise on parade day!
A Taste of Turnip Day, Eastham
It has been a few years, but I had to see for myself what the town of Eastham and turnips have in common. And sure enough, a full gymnasium full of vendors, exhibits and games confirmed the fact that indeed, Eastham is the turnip capital of [the world?!] Cape Cod!
Last year, over thirty local restaurants and food trucks served specials featuring Eastham turnips; soups, sides, entrees and even ice cream! A local celebrity, Bob Seay of GHB News, even delivered the Blessing of the Turnips.
Save the date, August 18, 2024, for the 52nd running of the Falmouth Road Race!
The race website homepage reads: The Falmouth Road Race was established in 1973 and has become one of the premier running events of the summer season.
Each year the race draws an international field of Olympians, elite, and recreational runners out to enjoy the iconic 7-mile seaside course. The creation of the FRR At-Home Edition allows you to experience Falmouth from your hometown. You can walk or run 7 miles in 7 days beginning August 12th.
The nonprofit Falmouth Road Race organization is committed to promoting health and fitness through community programs and philanthropic giving.
Hosted by the Wellfleet Chamber of Commerce, Oysterfest is a two-day, family-friendly festival that celebrates the town’s famous oysters, clams and shellfishing traditions and brings together locals and visitors for a weekend of hometown flavor and fun.
There is something for everyone at OysterFest: local cuisine, a fine art and craft fair, educational lectures, culinary programs, children’s activities, eco-tours, live music, a road race, and the annual Oyster Shuck-Off competition.
For a decade and a half, the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce has sponsored the annual Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail. The trail is one of Yarmouth’s biggest attractions, featuring three dozen or so family-friendly sand sculptures. The trail is usually available for viewing from Memorial Day until mid-October. But beware, some sand sculptures are not completed until mid-June.
Sand sculpture trail maps are available and the public is encouraged to vote for their favorite!
March 14, 2024