Cape Cod Activites, Events & Things to Do: Golf, Fishing, Whale Watches, Beaches, Shopping >> Activities >> Cultural
Crossing Paths, by Russell Vujs Courtesy of the Cultural Center of Cape Cod
Culture - Theater, Arts and Music on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket
Cape Cod and the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are blessed with rich history - from the first landing of the Pilgrims, to Revolutionary War activists, the lucrative clipper ship trade with the Orient and the heyday of the whaling industry.
Numerous museums, both maritime and historic, are open to the public, along with many former sea captains' homes, historic lighthouses and exhibits of Native American artifacts.
Actor's theatres, cabaret venues and symphony orchestra performances are abundant. Art museums are plentiful and galleries provide a full schedule of gala opening shows when one may meet and greet the featured artist.
Rte 6A at the Cape Playhouse Center • Dennis, MA 02638
Tel: (508) 385-4477
The Cape Cod Museum of Art’s mission is to collect, conserve, study, interpret and exhibit works by outstanding artists associated with Cape Cod and the Islands. Through its programs, the museum seeks to preserve the artistic heritage of the area and to foster artistic and cultural growth within the individual and the community. Visit CCMA to discover the Cape through historical and contemporary artists: - See exhibitions in seven galleries - Stroll through the lovely sculpture garden - Visit the Museum Shop for unique gifts by artists and artisans - Explore your creativity in year-round art classes for ... <more>
4676 Falmouth Road • Cotuit, MA 02635
Tel: (508) 428-7581
The Cahoon Museum of American Art resides in a beautifully restored 1775 Georgian Colonial that was once an overnight stop on the stagecoach line between Hyannis and Sandwich. Wide floorboards, stenciled walls and floors, fireplaces and antique furnishings give the cheerful galleries a homey intimacy. The heart of the collection is the fanciful primitive paintings of the late Ralph and Martha Cahoon, local legends who had their home, studio and gallery in the old house for 37 years. Using a palette of jewel-like colors, Ralph Cahoon created a world populated by innocently flirtatious mermaids and admiring sailors. Their exploits often ... <more>
49 Union Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-1177
Dedicated to preserving Nantucket's rich history of basket making as an art form. Providing a permanent home for an exhibit of Lightship Baskets, both historic and contemporary, our goal is to educate the public for future generations, with exhibits, lectures and demonstrations. Lightship baskets are unique to the island of Nantucket. The Museum exhibits and documents a wide range of Lightship Baskets from the earliest forms created in the 1850s to present-day creations. Throughout the season, the Museum features changing basket exhibits and provides demonstrations and lectures by experienced basket makers, weavers, historians, scrimshanders, and restoration experts. The Nantucket Lightship ... <more>
1 Candle Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-257-6727
George Thomas is a painter who spends his winters in Nantucket, MA and his summers in Nova Scotia. His work includes oils, pastels, watercolors, and prints. He is best known for his use of light in seascapes as well as his angling art. His Nantucket studio is located in town on Candle Street between Bary Thurston's Tackle Shop and A Cut Above. George's work can also be viewed at a number of galleries and stores both on Nantucket and the mainland. The on-island locations can be seen on the town map. Various prints can be ordered online as well. <more>
73 Orange Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-9047
The Weaving Room has been designing and producing high quality woven rugs and tapestries for home and public spaces since 1985. We offer custom made rugs reflecting the wishes and needs of the home owner, interior decorator or corporation. <more>
Off Route 6 • Wellfleet, MA 02663
Tel: (508) 349-2510
Fall in love with Wellfleet... and Enjoy Cape Cod at its Best! Wellfleet on Cape Cod offers something for everyone. Located some thirty miles out into the Atlantic Ocean, Wellfleet offers an abundance of quaint seaside character and charm. Our miles of beautiful sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, surfing, flying a kite or just relaxing. If you're willing to walk a short distance, you can enjoy complete solitude on your own private beach. The calmer waters of Cape Cod Bay and our harbor are a haven for boating, windsurfing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Don't miss taking a refreshing dip ... <more>
14 Atlantic Avenue • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-5152
Paul Galschneider was born in 1957 in Czechoslovakia and raised in Dornbirn, Austria. In 1985 he moved to the United States, living in Boulder, Colorado, Short Hills, New Jersey, and finally settling on Nantucket in 1994. Galschneider's interest in art developed later in life. Needing a way to express himself, Galschneider embraced painting. In 1993, he apprenticed for Earl Biss, (1947-1998), a nationally known Native Crow Indian, American artist, where Galschneider futher developed his own technique. He stretches his imagination to explore new techniques and subjects. Over the years, he has perfected his own unique style. Galschneider's work is highly ... <more>
5 India Street • Nantucket, MA 02544
Tel: 508-228-0406
South Warf Gallery opened in the summer of 1978 and for twenty-nine years the gallery was a landmark on the warf featuring refreshing and original works of art created primarily by rising and accomplished stars from Nantucket's own creative community of artists. <more>
48 Centre Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-325-8815
Charles A. Manghis has been an accomplished scrimshander and ivory carver for over 35 years. His love and knowledge of the history of the whaling era are portrayed in his detailed artwork. His scrimshaw appears in many private collections in the United States and abroad. <more>
19 I/2 Washington Square North • Salem, MA 01970
Tel: (800) 544-1692 or (978) 744-1692
Visit the Salem Witch Museum for a dramatic look at the history of the Salem witch trials of 1692. Our main presentation uses narration, lighting and figures to tell the story of the accusers and accused, the court proceedings and the executions of innocent victims. Our exhibit, Witches: Evolving Perceptions, examines the changing interpretations of the word “witch” over time. Images and figures portray the stereotypical witch and modern day Wiccans. A formula for a witch hunt and examples complete the exhibit. The museum is open year round and admission is charged. Available in English, French, German, Japanese, Italian, Spanish ... <more>
4 Mill Street • Nantucket, MA 02544
Tel: 508-228-1894
Welcome to the Nantucket Historical Association's educational program, dedicated to celebrating and reviving Nantucket's rich tradition in historic decorative arts and crafts. Immerse yourself in history at 1800 House, the NHA's restored nineteenth-century dwelling located at 4 Mill Street. Indulge your artistic side and learn centuries-old techniques taught by artisans from Nantucket and throughout New England. <more>
Route 151 • East Falmouth, MA 02536
Tel: (508) 563-3200
The Barnstable County Fair has been an annual summer tradition on Cape Cod for 164 years. The Fair is a place where families can spend the day together and share experiences they can only experience at the Barnstable County Fair. There are animal shows, 4-H demonstrations, petting zoos, horticulture displays, rides, games, live music, arts & crafts, food and commercial vendors with various arts and crafts for sale. The Fair features the best in wholesome family fun and entertainment. More than 85,000 people attend with an anticipated 90,000 this year. The Barnstable County Fair is a great place to get ... <more>
307 Commercial St • Provincetown, MA 02657
Tel: (508) 487-3424
Provincetown.... Cape Cod's most exciting destination: An historic town that knows how to have fun! Our first visitors: Nov. 11, 1620. For more information, please visit our website! <more>
75 Court Street • Plymouth, MA 02360
Tel: 508-746-1620
Small in scale and intimate in feeling, Pilgrim Hall Museum offers a chance to get up close and personal with the reality of past - inviting visitors to "Please Touch!" an authentic piece of Plymouth Rock. Less durable but equally authentic artifacts are displayed in more protective surroundings - the Brewster family chest that was brought to America on the Mayflower, the cradle of Peregrine White, William Bradford's great chair, the 1685 Bible translated by John Eliot into the Native Massachusett language, the only portrait of a Pilgrim (Edward Winslow) actually painted from life and the earliest sampler made ... <more>
10 Old South Wharf • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-7654
Eric Holch, internationally recognized artist and printmaker, based on Nantucket Island, creates limited edition serigraph prints, posters and his signature line of nautically-inspired silk neckties. Since 1976, Holch's limited edition prints and oil paintings have been exhibited in over 250 galleries and museums throughout the U.S., Bermuda, England, Australia and Japan. Holch's distinctive images have also been used for magazine covers, posters, cards, linens, jigsaw puzzles, ceramics, needlepoint, clothing and fashion accessories. <more>
7 Joy Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-325-7751
My pieces are an expression of the natural rythms of life. <more>
93 Washington Street • Salem, MA 01970
Tel: 978-741-3252
America’s bewitching seaport, Salem is a dynamic city to visit and explore. Just 16 miles north of Boston, and a 90 minute drive from Hyannis, Salem has an incredible history that includes witches and pirates, art, culture, maritime exploration, literary brilliance, and neighborhoods inspired by emigrants and collections from around the globe. Visit the mansion and gardens at the House of the Seven Gables, explore the land of witches and pirates, take a walking tour that is historic or haunted, and make an easy connection to Boston via the high-speed Salem Ferry. Cultural & family events, historic tours & attractions, ... <more>
50 North Liberty Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-2376
Barbara Toole opened The Clay Art Studio, Nantucket Island's only studio devoted entirely to ceramics, in May, 2000. Although she has been making pots for over 30 years, it is only in recent years that she has become a full time potter -after a longtime career as a pastry chef and co-owner of a restaurant on Nantucket. The Clay Art Studio is a functional studio, classroom,and gallery, open to the public year round. She teaches classes to adults and children on all levels. <more>
2 Greglen Avenue • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-325-9988
I began weaving in 1976. While working on my Masters of Fine Arts from Boston University in Costuming for the Stage I became more and more interested in the cloth I was working with every day, how it was woven, dyed and designed. Self-taught as a weaver, my early work concentrated on textiles that are used and touched in every day life - scarves, table linens, clothing and rugs. I also did weaving for church and synagogue. Weaving satisfies both the desire for creative expression and the more logical and mechanical turn of mind. The different kinds of weaving I ... <more>
16 Federal Street • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-2326
Nantucket Looms was established in 1968 as a weaving studio producing high-quality textile fabrics. Until it became a private enterprise, the looms were under the direction of the Nantucket Historical Trust and fabrics created there were used for the renovation of the historic Jared Coffin House. Continuing that tradition today, our weaving studio works with natural fibers to create one of a kind hand-woven textile designs. These range from our signature brushed mohair chaise throw to fine quality upholstery fabrics. Nantucket Looms not only produces our own textile pieces, but we also represent a variety of local artisans working in ... <more>
PO Box 234 • Woods Hole, MA 02543
Tel: (508) 548-8500
Woods Hole is a salty, sea spray village that brings the Nobel Laureate and the local fisherman together in harmony. It is a village of the past, with many seafaring tales, and it is a village of the future. In the summer, Woods Hole bustles with visitors, shoppers, scientists, residents, and passengers waiting for the next ferry to the island of Martha's Vineyard. It is a strolling village, easily reached in the summer aboard the "WHOOSH" trolley or by the "Shining Sea Bikepath." As you amble about the village, you'll discover many great eating places, unique shops, galleries, museums, educational ... <more>
11 First Way • Nantucket, MA 02584
Tel: 508-228-4487
Discerning Collectors are quick to recognize the artistry, skill and craftsmanship of the creations at Nantucket Basket Works. From the meticulous fine weave, to the exacting fit and design of each component. Be assured that your custom-made Nantucket Basket, is not only of the highest quality, but also reflects your personal choice! <more>
80 Old South Road • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-6755
In 1659 when the first white settlers came to Nantucket a need arose for storage and transportation of household wares. Basket making was one of the many skills that that the friendly natives taught the new settlers. These early baskets were made with materials that were readily available at the time, namely ash, oak, or hickory. These woods were made into splints by pounding and separating along the annual rings. This style of weaving baskets is the origin of many styles of baskets still produced today. Of all these styles perhaps shaker baskets most readily reflect their connection to the ... <more>
449 Bragg Lane • Barnstable, MA 02630
Tel: (508) 432-6909
From Cochrane and Traynor to Munson and Fisk, from Garciaparra and Erstad to Varitek and Helton, the Cape League has proven a breeding ground for top Major League talent since the turn of the century. Suffice it to say, the CCBL will once again prove it is the place where "tomorrow's stars shine tonight." Each year the most talented collegiate baseball players in the country are selected to play on one of 10 Cape Cod League teams. And fans, families and everyone in between are invited to share in the making of history. Admission is free, but donations are ... <more>
19 Old South Wharf • Nantucket, MA 02554
Tel: 508-228-1004
The Scrimshander Gallery, located on historic Old South Wharf in Nantucket, is a destination of choice for scrimshaw collectors and art lovers alike. The gallery began in 1990 as a showcase for artist Michael Vienneau's scrimshaw, carvings and artwork. A selection of artwork from other fine regional artists who work in scrimshaw is also available at the gallery. <more>
Pine & Grove Streets • Sandwich, MA 02563
Tel: (508) 888-3300
Located on 100 beautiful acres of gardens and nature trails, Heritage Museums & Gardens opens April 1 through October 31, 2010. The museum is completing three new projects that will open in the spring and summer. The projects include Hidden Hollow: A Nature Discovery Center, a Flume Fountain and major renovations to the Shaker round barn that exhibits the J. K. Lilly III Automobile Collection. These new projects enhance the current offerings of the museum which include a world class automobile collection; an American History Museum, and Art Museum with hand-carved carousel and extraordinary collection of New England folk art. ... <more>
P.O. Box 1698 • Martha's Vineyard, MA 02568
Tel: 800.505.4815
Discover the Magic of Martha's Vineyard Located just 7 miles off the Massachusetts coastline, the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard is a world apart, offering a vacation ambience unlike any other. Explore the diversity of our six island towns, take long walks along our pristine shores, and step back in time to a more leisurely pace. Each season offers something different. We invite you to come and experience all the island of Martha’s Vineyard has to offer. —MARTHA’S VINEYARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE <more>
