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Cape Cod Events
August 2023

Updated: August 17, 2023

And that's just the beginning of all the fantastic things to do on Cape Cod in August!

 

Fairs, Festivals & Special Events
August 2023

Free Movies at Chatham Orpheum Theater

When: Daily in August, 2023 at 9:30 a.m.

Where: The Orpheum Theater, 637 Main Street, Chatham, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Chatham Orpheum Theater

Chatham's Orpheum Theater is showing free, family friendly movies every morning:

July 28 to August 3 - Spirit Untamed

August 4 to 10 - Beethoven

August 11 to 17 - Wallace & Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit

August 18 to 24 - Stuart Little

August 25 to Sept. 4 - The Land Before Time

Doors to the theater open at 9 a.m. The show starts at 9:30 a.m.

Tickets are free, available at the box office the morning of the show. Seating is first come, first served.

Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail

When: Daily in August 2023

Where: Throughout the town of Yarmouth, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail

Follow the Sand Sculpture Trail to see the mind-blowing works of nationally renowned artist and sculptor, Sean Fitzpatrick!

This year, you'll find Sean's creative, amusing and totally family friendly sand sculptures in 32 different locations around the town of Yarmouth.

"In the Flow: From Heaven to Earth" Art Exhibition

When: Throughout the month of August 2023

Where: Eastham Public Library, 190 Samoset Road, Eastham, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Carol Cannon Fine Arts

This month, Eastham Public Library presents a special exhibition by artist Carol Cannon.

Ms. Cannon’s unique artistry demonstrates the principle that the human body is a lightning rod for subtle energies, originally emanating from the center of all creation. Cannon practices clearing the mind and inviting the Divine, or the Natural Elements to express through her, listening to kinesthetic impulses, and letting her hand give free expression to spontaneous gestures.

The 16 exhibited pieces vary from small triptychs to a 6-foot by 8-foot illuminated microfiber piece, mostly in sumi or hand-made inks.

*Note: On August 1st, Ms. Cannon will present an Artist’s Talk from 5 – 5:30 p.m., followed by a reception from 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Carousel of Light

When: Daily in August, 2023 (weather permitting)

Where: Mullen-Hall Elementary School, 130 Katharine Bates Road, Falmouth

Admission: One ticket per ride, prices vary 

More Info: Carousel of Light on Facebook

This hand-carved, twirling work of art features 20 wooden horses and 2 wheelchair accessible chariots (including one called "Bubbles" that actually blows bubbles!), all decked out in a nautical flair. 

Come out for a ride on one of the most popular attractions in Falmouth - the Carousel of Light.

Woods Hole Film Festival

When: July 29 - August 5, 2023

Where:  Venues in Woods Hole, Falmouth & Cotuit

More Info: Woods Hole Film Festival

Dedicated to showcasing and promoting the work of talented independent, emerging filmmakers, the highly regarded Woods Hole Film Festival draws filmmakers and patrons from around the world.

The Festival showcases a wide variety of screenings and events during its eight-day run. Truly, something for everyone!

National Night Out

When: August 1, 2023 from 5 - 8 p.m.

Where: John Simpkins Field, 1153 Rt. 28, South Yarmouth, MA

Admission: Free

Come see what the Yarmouth Police are all about. Interact with officers, check out policing equipment, and have fun!

There will be free face painting, pizza, and ice cream (while supplies last). There'll also be a K9 and SWAT demo and an obstacle course for children.

Bayberry Quilters 40th Annual Quilt Show

When: August 2, 2023, noon to 7:00 p.m.; August 3, 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 PM; August 4, 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Where: Cape Cod Technical High School, 351 Pleasant Lake Ave., Harwich, MA

Admission: $12/adult; children under 12 - Free

More Info:  Bayberry Quilters of Cape Cod

Bayberry Quilters of Cape Cod's 40th annual show features 250+ beautiful quilts plus special displays of "Road Trip" themed quilts and red & white quilts in honor of the show's ruby anniversary.

In addition to the quilt displays, there'll be a vendors mall, handcrafted boutique, raffle quilt, lectures & demonstrations, a "Kids Can Sew" booth, and information on Bayberry's community outreach programs.

Summerfest in Orleans

When: August 4 - 6, 2023

Where: Throughout the town of Orleans, MA

Admission: Varies by event

More Info: Orleans Summerfest 2023

Summerfest in Orleans features interactive tours, fun family activities, and tons of shopping all weekend long.

Enjoy live music at Barley Neck, the Artists Cottage Entertainment Park, the Academy of Performing Arts, and much more! Catch the Firebirds at the Cape Cod Baseball League’s playoff game, or explore Orleans’ many galleries, museums, and unique shops.

This is a great time to explore Orleans!

Summer Celebratory Concerts

When: August 4 & 5, 2023 at 7:30 PM

Where: Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans, MA (Saturday concert is also live streamed.)

Tickets: $35 general admission; $30 seniors; students and under 18 Free

More Info: Gloriae Dei Cantores Choir

This Summer Celebratory Concert features performances of  stunning classical favorites in the amazing acoustics of the Church of the Transfiguration in Orleans.

Under the baton of Richard K. Pugsley, the world renowned choir Gloriæ Dei Cantores - along with brass ensemble, orchestra, and guest soloist - offer a glorious program including John Rutter's Gloria, All Things Bright and Beautiful, and For the Beauty of the Earth; Mozart's Exsultate, Jubilate; Elgar's Nimrod from Enigma Variations; Karl Jenkin's Benedictus from The Armed Man; and Holst's Two Psalms for choir and orchestra.

As always, tickets are free for students and youth.

Stony Brook Grist Mill & Museum Open House

When: August 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2023, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (See below for special event!)

Where: Stony Brook Grist Mill & Museum, 830 Stony Brook Road, Brewster, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Stony Brook Factory Village - FB page

Here's your chance to see this fully restored, 19th century water-powered gristmill in action!

Watch as the miller grinds kernels of corn into cornmeal the old fashioned way. Buy a bag of freshly ground organic cornmeal. Visit the museum upstairs where you'll learn about the history of Stony Brook Village and see weaving demonstrations on the antique "barn loom". Then spend some time exploring the scenic footpaths on Stony Brook's grounds.

*Special Event: August 26th is an extra-special Saturday at Stony Brook. It's the annual Cornbread Festival. Stop by and sample homemade corn bread, made from corn meal ground at the Mill. Get there early, before all the samples are  gone!

Mayflower Beach Sand Sculpture Contest

When: August 5, 2023 from 9 a.m. to noon

Where: Mayflower Beach, 2 Dune Road, East Dennis, MA

Admission: Free; paid parking (see below)

More Info: Mayflower Beach Sand Sculpting Contest

Bring your favorite sand sculpting tools (and your creativity!) to Mayflower Beach for this year's sand sculpture contest.

Everyone in the family can get in on the fun! Prize ribbons will be awarded to the winners!

*Note: Parking at Mayflower Beach requires a town of Dennis beach parking sticker or daily pass. Parking is first come, first served.

"Hookers Ball" 

When: August 5, 2023

Where: Chatham VFW, 150 George Ryder Road, Chatham

More Info:  Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen's Alliance

The name of this event got your attention, didn't it?

Held under a big white tent on the grounds of the Chatham VFW, this exceptional evening highlights fresh-from-the-boat seafood, a one-of-a-kind live auction and an extensive silent auction with items from the Cape's great businesses, artists and services.

Chatham Summer Craft Festival

When: August 5 & 6, 2023 (rain or shine)

Where: Chatham Community Center Lawn, 702 Main Street, Chatham, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Chatham Summer Craft Festival

Explore a charming crafts fair showcasing 55 talented artisans selling their exceptional American-made creations. You'll find a diverse range of items including jewelry, photography, art, candles, signs, pet gifts, towels, glassware, and more. Plus unique finds like whimsical garden art, knives, woodwork, bath products, calligraphy, fine art, and plenty of  specialty foods, too.

"A Night at the Movies!" Concert

When: August 11, 2023, 7:00 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm)

Where: Our Lady of the Cape, 468 Stony Brook Road, Brewster, MA

Admission: Free will donation

More Info: A Night at the Movies Concert

Spend an evening with the Cape Cod String Quartet and special guests as they take you on a journey through movie soundtracks of all different genres!

The concert will raise money to benefit the Family Pantry of Cape Cod and the Saint Vincent de Paul Society.

Make sure to get there early to grab a great seat!

Woods Hole Science Stroll

When: August 12, 2023, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Where: Along Water Street in Woods Hole, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Woods Hole Science Stroll

Here's your chance to explore science along Water Street in Woods Hole, and get close-up views of instruments and equipment used in research.

Talk with those doing the research and building the technology. See live animal exhibits, participate in hands-on activities and crafts, see demonstrations, tour a commercial scalloper and learn about cooperative research with the fishing industry.

Engage with staff from more than a dozen of the village’s marine science and educational organizations.

*Tip: Take the WHOOSH trolley from Falmouth to Woods Hole or ride your bike as parking is limited to metered street parking and some free parking in designated lots .

Provincetown "Carnival"

When: August 12 - 19, 2023

Where: Multiple venues and events around Provincetown

Admission: Varies by event

More Info: Provincetown Carnival

Now in its 45th year, this week-long celebration of LGBTQ+ life  attracts tens of thousands of guests from all over the world to enjoy parties, events, costume contests, and the wild and crazy  Carnival parade down Commercial Street.

This year's Carnival theme is "Land of Toys". No doubt the festivities will be as big and boisterous as ever!

TIP: This is a super-popular event in Provincetown, and accommodations sell out early. If you're planning to be here for the festivities, book your lodging now!

Performing Arts Building: Grand Opening Celebration

When: August 12, 2023, 2:00 p.m.

Where: Performing Arts Building, 95 Southern Eagle Cartway, Brewster, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Performing Arts Building

Lovers of the arts, young and old ... join Arts Empowering Life Foundation in celebrating the grand opening of their new, green, innovative Performing Arts Building on the Lower Cape!

The celebration will begin with an inaugural ribbon cutting, followed by exhibits about the building, a festive reception, and tours of this new community space.

* See the Performing Arts Building website (link above) for info about concerts at the venue on August 19th and 27th.

Festival of the Arts in Chatham

When: August 18 - 20, 2023, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Chase Park, Cross Street, Chatham, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Creative Arts Center

The 52nd Festival of the Arts boasts 120 juried local and national artisans and craftsmen exhibitors. The festival is family friendly with a children’s tent offering face painting and art activities. 

Food and refreshments will be available from Gourmet Food Trucks.

Colonial Day at the Manse

When: August 19, 2023, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Josiah Dennis Manse, 61 Whig Street, Dennis Village, MA

Admission: Free

More Info: Colonial Day at the Manse

Journey back to the 1700s at the Josiah Dennis Manse and the restored Old West School House. 

Come tour the Manse museum and schoolhouse, and see period-costumed docents, spinners, weavers and other craftsmen and women showing what life was like in the town of Dennis nearly 300 years ago.

This popular annual event is ideal for adults and kids, too. Don't miss it!

Falmouth Walk

When:  August 19, 2023, 10 a.m.

Where: Downtown Falmouth (or virtually, if you choose, from wherever you are)

Entry Fee: $30 per participant; pre-registration required

More Info: Falmouth Walk

The 32nd Annual Falmouth Walk is on the calendar for Saturday August 19th starting at 10 a.m. from Falmouth’s Town Hall Square.

The picturesque 5K (about 3.2 miles) course will once again flow through the charming streets of Falmouth along the bustling Falmouth Harbor and past the storefronts of Main Street to the finish at St. Barnabas Church by the Town Green.  

The $30 entry fee for this event includes a Falmouth Walk t-shirt and official walk bib number. All profits from the Falmouth Walk benefit local charities.

Falmouth Road Race

When: August 20, 2023

Where: Throughout the town of Falmouth

More Info: Falmouth Road Race

The ASICS Falmouth Road Race is one of the most anticipated Cape Cod events each August. Over 10,000 runners from Cape Cod and around the world participate in the race each year. 

This year's race will again follow a beautiful 7-mile seaside course, with spectators lining the route to cheer the runners on. Whether you're running or spectating, this is a don't miss event!

Peter Cottontail Hop

When: August 24, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Where: Falmouth Museums on the Green, 65 Palmer Avenue, Falmouth, MA

Admission: $20 per child (space is limited, pre-registration required)

More Info: Peter Cottontail Hop

Join the Falmouth Historical Society and the Thornton Burgess Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen for a family program that brings Burgess’ famed character, Peter Cottontail, to life.

The program begins with a story time with Christie Lowrance, author of Nature’s Ambassador: The Legacy of Thornton W. Burgess.

Following story time, children will receive a bunny finger puppet and participate in a bunny dance, then create a take-home bunny mask. The program ends with a Peter Cottontail Scavenger hunt on the grounds of the Falmouth Historical Society, a setting filled with several gardens and home for many adorable cottontail rabbits.

*Note: $20 per child admission includes puppet and take-home craft. Capacity is limited for this event. Pre-registration is required.

Symphony at the Seashore

When: August 24, 2023, at 7 p.m. (rain date August 25th)

Where: Salt Pond Visitor Center Amphitheater, 50 Nauset Road, Eastham

Admission: Free

More Info: Symphony at the Seashore

Cape Cod National Seashore welcomes the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra back to the shores of Salt Pond in Eastham for an outdoor concert featuring special guest vocalists Mozelle Andrulot, who grew up in Eastham, and Ella Mae Dixon, originally from Wellfleet.

The program includes American classics including  “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Fascinating Rhythm,” and “I Only Have Eyes For You.”

Pre-concert family games will be offered from 6 to 6:45 pm.

Cornbread Festival at the Gristmill

When: August 26, 2023, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Stony Brook Gristmill, 830 Stony Brook Road, Brewster

Admission: Free

More Info: Stony Brook Gristmill Cornbread Festival

Have you ever tasted cornbread made from freshly ground cornmeal?

Here's your chance to watch corn being ground the centuries-old way: by water power ... and to sample Cape Cod-style  cornbread made with Stony Brook's "home-ground" cornmeal.

*FYI: Once your taste buds have experienced this delicious treat, they'll never be satisfied with the store-bought stuff again! ;-)

Free cornbread samples will be given out until they're all gone. Get there early so you don't miss out!

"In the Light of Hopper" at the National Seashore

When: August 30, 2023 at 7 p.m.

Where: Salt Pond Visitors Center, 50 Nauset Road, Eastham, MA

Admission: Free, but reservations required

More Info: In the Light of Hopper

This documentary by ArtsLight reporter and filmmaker Johnny Bergmann brings Edward Hopper's paintings to life and connects the past to the present. Through interviews with artists, historians and an author, the film explores the different ways in which Hopper's work continues to inspire people to create.

Seats for this free screening are limited, so be sure to register (at the link above) in advance to secure your spot!

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>> Don't miss my Cape Cod Activities Guide for lots more fun things to see and do!

 

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Important Note: The date, time, place, admission charges, etc. of the events on this page may be changed by the event sponsor at any time, without my knowledge. Please be sure to confirm all information directly with the sponsor before you make any plans!