How to Celebrate the Nantucket Daffodil Festival

The beloved Nantucket Daffodil Festival marks the arrival of spring, when more than three million daffodils paint the town yellow and white. Locals don daffodils on everything from their hats to their homes; businesses open up shop for the active season; and the entire island gathers for a slew of celebrations, including hat and flower shows, bike and dog parades, and, most notably, an antique car parade followed by a tailgating picnic out in Sconset.

March 14, 2022

This year, the festival will take place April 22-24, 2022. Read on to discover the top events to look forward to during Nantucket Daffodil Festival 2022.

DAFFODIL FLOWER SHOW

Recognized by the American Daffodil Society, the Nantucket Garden Club’s annual Daffodil Show is a spectacular way to celebrate spring. Take in all the spectacular bouquets in the greenhouses at Bartlett’s Farm on Saturday, April 23 from 2-5pm & Sunday, April 24 from 10am to 4pm. Back after two years of virtual celebration, the 46th Annual Daffodil Show will be themed “Island Treasures” and is surely not one to be missed!

CAR PARADE & TAILGATE

One of Nantucket’s most beloved traditions, the antique and classic car parade is undoubtably the most anticipated event of the Daffodil Festival. Vintage cars donned in creative flower arrangements line up on Main Street for the island to see before parading out to scenic ‘Sconset for a themed tailgate picnic. This year, the event will commence on Main Street on Saturday, April 23 at 9 AM, followed by the tailgate from 12-3 PM in ‘Sconset. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or just want to commune with locals dressed up fun daffodil costumes, this event is a can’t-miss!

DAFFY EVENTS AT CHILDREN’S BEACH

Attending the Daffodil Festival with kids in tow? On Saturday, April 23 from 10 AM to 2:30 PM, families will be able to partake in Daffodil themed events at Children’s Beach, including a hat Parade, children’s Parade, giveaways, live entertainment, dog parade, and more.

MORE WAYS TO CELEBRATE

Window Shopping
Many local businesses decorate their windows boxes with elaborate floral arrangements, and even compete against each other for the best display. Take it all in on a walk downtown, and consider helping out local businesses by picking up a souvenir or two. A few of our favorite shops include Murray’s Toggery Shop, Nantucket Looms, and ACK4170.

Take to the Fields
During the festival, much of Nantucket is covered in daffodils, and there’s no better way to take it all in than with a scenic walk, drive, or bike around the island. Head to Sconset and marvel at the floral arrangements lining Milestone Road, then make your way to Sankaty Lighthouse nearby for some serious eye candy—this time of year, the iconic lighthouse is surrounded by fields of yellow flowers. Dress in layers and don’t forget your camera.