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26th annual Nantucket Wine Festival | May 15-19
The summer events season started with the 26th annual Nantucket Wine Festival, featuring wines from various countries and leading figures in the wine industry today. Guests had the opportunity to enjoy tastings, dinners, lectures, and demonstrations. The festival was initially held at the Sconset Casino in 1997, but over time, the locations have changed, and this year, most events took place in Town.
In the upcoming year, a significant change is on the horizon as the White Elephant has decided to partner with a new organizer, Gordon’s Fine Wine. They have stepped aside from working with Nancy Bean, who has been the director of operations since 2012 and currently the owner of that festival. This fresh collaboration will introduce the "Nantucket Food and Wine Experience," scheduled to take place on the same May weekend as in previous years.
As reported in June in the Nantucket Current, and in a statement from the White Elephant, they expressed their delight in continuing as the venue for this exciting new venture with The Gordon Companies. They are enthusiastic about upholding the tradition of providing exceptional food and wine to both locals and visitors on Nantucket.
"Tony Sarg, Genius at Play" Opening Exhibit | May 30
"Tony Sarg, Genius at Play" opened at the Whaling Museum on May 30 for the summer season. It's the first comprehensive exhibition exploring the life, art, and adventures of Sarg, a pioneer in modern puppetry born in 1880. While renowned as the father of modern puppetry, Sarg's artistic talents extended to design, illustration, and animation. Notably, he is credited with creating the iconic balloons for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Curated by the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA, in collaboration with the NHA, this event held special significance for David and me. David, who served as the Facilities Director at the Norman Rockwell Museum for five years before relocating to Nantucket in 2019, was particularly thrilled to support this partnership with the NHA and reconnect with friends from his time in the Berkshires.
Nantucket by Design, Kick-Off Cocktail Party | July 15
A wonderful kick-off cocktail party for Nantucket by Design with this year’s theme of Craftsmanship. A week for those who love antiques and design. The premier summer fundraiser for NHA, took place with keynote speakers, panel discussions, social gatherings, and more, at the Whaling Museum, White Elephant Hotel, and in private locations around the island. Sponsored by William Raveis, we were delighted to participate in this annual affair, enjoying quality time with our peers and friends amidst the stunning surroundings. Special mention goes to the chic decor by Serena & Lily and delectable treats by the Nantucket Catering Company.
Nantucket Grown, “Farm Fresh Feast” | July 24
Summer is growing season on Nantucket, when the island produces an abundance of locally grown edibles and decorative plants. The Sustainable Nantucket Farm Fresh Feast offered a Nantucket Grown menu sourced from island farms and catered by Chef Mark and Eithne Yelle of Nantucket Catering Company. It was over the top delicious, especially the dessert!
Established in 2000, Sustainable Nantucket (SN) is dedicated to protecting the unique identity of Nantucket while promoting its economic and environmental well-being. SN is a grassroots, non-profit organization working towards creating a more community-centered and self-sufficient food network on the island through education, advocacy, training, and collaborations with various stakeholders such as farmers, fishermen, local food providers, schools, restaurants, and other community members.
NIISHA's "Woofstock" | Aug 2
The Nantucket community gathered for an evening in support of Nantucket Island Safe Harbor for Animals (NiSHA). The fundraiser, which too place at Bartlett’s Farm, brought together pet owners and their beloved friends to raise money for the island’s animal shelter. NiSHA is a vital animal resource, leading in humane education, advocacy, and outreach. Their motto, "No animal in need will ever be turned away!" reflects their dedication.
Photography by Bill Hoenk & Robin Slick
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