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 agricultural fairs to fine Italian dining under the stars, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Check out some of the most exciting August events on Cape Cod and the Islands:
A 5-Star weekend with Elin Hildebrand – August 3
A celebration of Elin’s latest book, The Five-Star Weekend begins with a “Read the Runway Fashion Show,” live auction, discussion with Elin, light bites, drinks and dancing. This event benefits the Nantucket Book Foundation
1st Friday Vineyard Haven Main Street – August 4th
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. The event is free to attend, but make sure to bring some money to help support the local vendors!
La Tavola Mashpee – August 4th
Come to the 16th annual La Tavola for a chance to experience an Italian feast under the stars! Purchasing a ticket for just $75 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 Steeple Street in front of the Mashpee Library and proceeds to benefit the Mashpee Chamber Scholarship Fund.
Mayflower Beach Sand Sculpture Contest – August 5th
Bring your bucket and shovels to Mayflower Beach and join in the fun! Building starts at 6:30am and the judging will be at 9:30am. Pre-registration required with the Town of Dennis Beach Department at 508-760-6159. REGISTER.This is a free family event with ribbon prizes awarded to the winners.
Wood Hole Film Festival – July 29th – August 5th
Head over to Falmouth for the 32nd Wood Hole Films Festival. The festival will feature independent film screenings, panel discussions, workshops, parties, and more!
This year’s festival will feature 110 different films from 19 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 to view all of the movies at the festival from the comfort of your home.
Chillmark Road Race -August 12th
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.
Provincetown Carnival – August 12th- 19th
The Ptown Carnival is back in full force!! In its 45th 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.
Harwich Cranberry Festival Artisan Market – August 12th & 13th
Check out the Harwich Cranberry Festival Artisan Market for local makers and craft vendors, both days from 9am to 4pm, at Brooks Park. Learn more about the upcoming festival in our article about the Harwich Cranberry Arts & Music Festival.
Illumination Night – Martha’s Vineyard – August 16th
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 17th – 20th
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. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under 5 can get in free, but parking is $5. The fair starts at 10 am on August 18th.
Oak Bluff Fireworks and Band – August 18th
After a two-year hiatus, the Oak Bluffs Fireworks and Band Concert has been revived to close the summer off with 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.
Falmouth Road Race – August 20th
Break out your running show 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!
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!
Check out our favorite must-do things on the cape or some of the best excursions and tours on the island.
