NANTUCKET, MA - From early-April to mid-May, over three million daffodils of every color, shape and size will bloom on Nantucket Island, a world-class resort just 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts. This blossoming, and the advent of spring itself, is the focal point of the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Daffodil Festival, April 25-27, 2008.
Originated by the late Jean MacAusland, a summer resident of Nantucket and former publisher of Gourmet magazine, the weekend has grown into a full-scale celebration of winter’s thaw, joyous for both islanders and visitors alike.
Daffodils adorn the island’s roadsides, gardens and shop windows with blossoms of yellow, orange, white and even pale pink.
The Daffodil Festival’s grand event, held on Saturday, is the Annual Antique Car Parade, featuring over 100 daffodil-bedecked antique cars (pre-registration necessary for participation).
After winding through town and across the island to the charming village of Siasconset, participants join residents and visitors for the Annual Daffodil Tailgate Picnic. Held on the lush lawns leading into the village, the picnic boasts fare ranging from elaborate gourmet cuisine served on fine china to box lunches and burgers. Other highlights include the Nantucket Garden Club’s Annual Daffodil Show, Children’s Daffodil Parade and Daffy Hat Pageant.
Daffodils are in bloom for about five weeks – early and late bloomers from early-April to mid-May. Springtime on Nantucket brings delightful weather and offers opportunities for seal cruises and outdoor activities such as bicycling, hiking, fishing, photography, bird watching and nature study. For more information and the best Nantucket resource - the Official Guide - call the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce at 508/228-1700 or visit www.nantucketchamber.org.
Nantucket is accessible by airplane or ferry - one-hour high-speed ferry services are available. Visitors are encouraged to leave their cars behind, as all activities are accessible by walking, bicycle, or taxi.