Thanksgiving Tradition in Nantucket

Thanksgiving is significant, and people celebrate it in many ways, mostly based on their traditions. As an adventurer, you can tour various places to experience their Thanksgiving celebrations.

Nantucket is among the best places to visit for Thanksgiving, as it has plenty of niceties to participate in during the holiday. The island’s popularity as a tourist destination has been on an upward trend, with many travel enthusiasts having it on their bucket lists.

Several activities characterize this island’s Thanksgivings, notably the Nantucket Atheneum Cold Turkey Plunge. It is an annual event that marked its 21st anniversary in 2022 and takes place at the Children’s Beach.

The primary purpose of the Cold Turkey Plunge is to raise funds for Nantucket’s Atheneum Weezie Library for Children. The funds ensure that the library is functional round the year, with library users accessing its services and materials for free. Typically, the event raises an average of $100,000 each year.

The 2022 event ended a 2-year streak of virtual events due to the Covid-19 pandemic and boasted excellent attendance.

Anyone can participate in this Nantucket tradition: you should register early if interested. The festivities start around 10 am on Thanksgiving Day, and on-site registration ends at 9 am. You can either sign up as a plunger or a spectator. Plungers dip into the icy waters when the event starts and may register as a group.

Spectators watch as the event unfolds, with an MC taking charge to ensure everyone joins in the fun. Some spectators may assume the role of “helpers,” offering towels to the participants coming out of the water.

Keep in mind that the Children’s Beach has limited facilities, such as parking. You may have to park further up the road before joining others in merry-making. The teams make the event colorful by sporting different costumes. The scene resembles a script out of a carnival. Moreover, there are plenty of refreshments for both plungers and spectators.

You can still participate in the Cold Turkey Plunge even if you are far from the island. You do this by registering and making your donation. Moreover, you can attend the virtual version of this event.