Exciting August Events on Cape Cod 2024

August is an exciting time on Cape Cod. The summer season is still in full swing, with a ton of unique August events to enjoy!

From Cape Cod Baseball League games to fine Italian dining under the stars, there August events across the Cape and islands for everyone to enjoy.

Check out some of the most exciting August events on Cape Cod and the Islands:

Wood Hole Film Festival – July 27th – August 3rd

Head over to Falmouth for the 33rd Wood Hole Films Festival. The festival will feature independent film screenings, panel discussions, workshops, parties, and more!

This year’s festival will feature 120 different films from 21 different countries,  in four different venues. Tickets can be purchased in packs of 10 for $150 or packs of 6 for $90. The tickets can be used for multiple people for one film or across several films.

If you are unable to attend, you can also purchase a virtual pass for as little as $130, which gives you access the following week, August 4-August 11th,  to view all of the movies at the festival from the comfort of your home.

Pink and White Party with Elin Hilderbrand – August 1st

A celebration taken from Elin’s latest book, Swan Song begins with a “Read the Runway Fashion Show,” live auction, discussion with Elin, light bites, drinks and music. This event benefits the Nantucket Book Foundation

1st Friday Vineyard Haven Main Street – August 2nd

Take a trip over to 19 Owen, Park Street in Vineyard Haven to visit the First Friday event this month! Every first Friday of the month from June through October, Main Street in Vineyard Haven hosts a free outdoor event.
The event will have local vendors selling food, art, and crafts in addition to live music, carriage rides and a fire dancing performance. The event is free to attend, but make sure to bring some money to help support the local vendors!

La Tavola Mashpee – August 2nd

Come to the 17th annual La Tavola for a chance to experience an Italian feast under the stars! Purchasing a ticket for just $80 gets you access to a five-course feast catered by Villaggio Ristorante.

In addition to the meal, you will be entertained by a wide variety of unique performers, including the popular Aaron Caruso. The event takes place on Job’s Fishing Road outside of Christ the King Parish and proceeds to benefit the Mashpee Chamber Scholarship Fund.

Chillmark Road Race  -August 10th

Join the Chilmark Road Race on Martha’s Vineyard on a hilly course.  All proceeds from the race are donated to the Town Affairs Council for the operation of the Chilmark Community Center and  scholarships. Volunteers are always needed if you are not planning to run.

Harwich Cranberry Craft Fair – August 10th & 11th

Check out the Harwich Cranberry Craft Fair for local makers and craft vendors, both days from 9am to 4pm, at Brooks Park Harwich Center. Learn more about the upcoming festival in our article about the Harwich Cranberry Arts & Music Festival.

Illumination Night – Martha’s Vineyard – August 14th

One of the best events of the summer is the annual illumination night in Martha’s Vineyard. The highlight of the event is the lighting of the Victorian gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs using traditional Japanese lanterns.

The lighting is proceeded by a program in the Tabernacle that includes a community sing-a-long and music by the Vineyard Haven band. Make sure to get there early as it’s a popular event!

Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair – August 15th – 18th

Over its 160 years, the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair in West Tisbury has grown into a beloved island tradition. The fair features rides, games, shows, and competitions, along with the traditional showing of agricultural animals, goods and products..  Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children, seniors and veterans. Children 4 and under can get in free. The fair starts at 10 am on August 15th.

Oak Bluff Fireworks and Band – August 16th

The Oak Bluffs Fireworks and Band Concert closes the summer outwith a bang! The concert begins at 8:00 pm at the Ocean Park Gazebo, with the fireworks going off around 9 pm.  Parking is available at Waban Park and Washington Park, but it’s best to get there before 7 in order to get a spot.

Provincetown Carnival – August 17th- 24th

The Ptown Carnival is back in full force!! In its 46th year, this festival attracts tens of thousands of guests from all over the world to enjoy parties, gallery strolls, a sunset cruise, costume contests and the celebrated Carnival parade down Commercial Street. This years theme is the Land of Toys. Check out our article on the Provincetown Carnival for more info.

Falmouth Road Race – August 18th

Break out your running shoes for the annual Falmouth Road Race. This long-running race has been ongoing since 1973. Runners will travel along a 7-mile sea-side course that features runners of all levels.

The race does have Olympic-level athletes but features mostly recreational runners. The overall goal is to raise money for philanthropic giving and to promote health and fitness in the community. Register for the race today!

Dennis Festival Days August 25th – September 1st

Wrap up the end of summer with a week-long celebration sponsored by the Dennis Chamber of Commerce. Festivities start with the Antique Car Parade followed by Field Day, Pie Eating Contest, Outdoor Music, Canoe Race, Fireworks and Beach Party.

Looking for More to Do on Cape Cod?

While the above August events are unique experiences, there is lots to do in Cape Cod that is available during the entire summer season and even year-round! Our Events Calendar will keep you up to date on all the August events happening across the Cape and Islands!

Check out our favorite must-do things on the Cape or some of the best excursions and tours on the island.