As summer begins to wind down, one of Nantucket’s favorite early-fall traditions returns to Tom Nevers. The Nantucket Island Fair 2026 will take place Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Tom Nevers Field, bringing together two days of classic fair games, local artisans, animals, family activities, competitions, and plenty of island community spirit.
For those who live on Nantucket year-round, September brings a noticeable change of pace. The beaches get a little quieter, the evenings a little cooler, and community events begin to take center stage. The Nantucket Island Fair fits perfectly into that transition—a relaxed weekend that feels distinctly local and offers something for nearly every age.
When Is the Nantucket Island Fair 2026?
Dates: Saturday, September 12 & Sunday, September 13, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM both days
Location: Tom Nevers Field, Nantucket, Massachusetts
The fair takes place over two days, with many activities offered throughout the weekend and a few special events scheduled for Saturday or Sunday.
What to Expect at the 2026 Nantucket Island Fair
A walk around the fairgrounds brings together many of the traditions that have made the Island Fair a favorite Nantucket event.
Ray’s Barnyard
One of the most popular stops, especially for younger fairgoers, is Ray’s Barnyard, open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM both days. This year’s barnyard is scheduled to include alpacas, donkeys, goats, pigs, chickens, rabbits, and ducks.
Local Artisans & Community Exhibitions
Head through Artisans Alley and the Community Tent to discover local crafts, community exhibitors, Gertrude’s Farm Stand, and traditional fair competitions.
Saturday’s schedule includes judging for favorites such as the Nantucket Tar Roof Cake Competition, Best Cookie Competition, and Fairy House Competitions, with winners highlighted on Sunday.
It’s one of our favorite parts of the weekend—a chance to see just how much creativity, talent, and tradition exists within the Nantucket community.
Classic County Fair Games
If you’re ready for a little friendly competition, the schedule is packed with classic fair games throughout both days.
Expect favorites including the sack race, three-legged race, watermelon eating contest, cupcake eating contest, hot pepper eating contest, skillet toss, and an inflatable suit obstacle course. Saturday also includes a water balloon toss.
Whether you participate or simply watch from the sidelines, these are often some of the most entertaining moments of the weekend.
Family Fun at the Kids Corner
Families with younger children will want to make time for the Kids Corner, where activities are scheduled to include tie-dye, pumpkin painting, henna, face painting, the Strong Man Game, pumpkin ring toss, Fish Bowl Pong, Can Knock Down, and Ducky Pluck.
Tickets are required for Kids Corner activities.
Around the rest of the fairgrounds, look for scarecrow building, scavenger hunts, Nantucket Disc Golf demonstrations, Grandma’s Apron, and the dunk tank.
Don’t Miss the Sunday Dog Show
Dogs get their turn in the spotlight on Sunday, September 13 during the Nantucket Island Fair Dog Show, sponsored by Geronimo’s.
Registration is scheduled from 11:00 AM to noon, followed by show judging from 12:00–1:00 PM.
It’s always a fun addition to the weekend and another reason to spend a little extra time exploring the fair on Sunday.
Volunteer at the Nantucket Island Fair
Want to experience the fair from a different perspective? The Nantucket Island Fair is currently inviting volunteers to join the Island Fair family for 2026.
Volunteering is a great way to participate in one of Nantucket’s community traditions while helping make the weekend possible.
→ Sign Up to Volunteer at the 2026 Nantucket Island Fair
The official Island Fair website also provides an email contact for anyone interested in getting involved.
Celebrate September on Nantucket
There’s something special about Nantucket in September. The pace begins to slow after the height of summer, but there’s still plenty happening around the island—and the Nantucket Island Fair is one of those weekends that captures the season especially well.
Come for the animals and fair games, browse local crafts, enter a competition, bring the kids to the Kids Corner, cheer on the Dog Show, or simply spend a few hours catching up with familiar faces at Tom Nevers.
We’ll see you at the 2026 Nantucket Island Fair!
Nantucket Island Fair 2026 FAQs
When is the Nantucket Island Fair in 2026?
The 2026 Nantucket Island Fair takes place Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day.
Where is the Nantucket Island Fair held?
The fair is held at Tom Nevers Field on Nantucket.
Is the Nantucket Island Fair family-friendly?
Yes. The fair includes Ray’s Barnyard, a dedicated Kids Corner, games, crafts, competitions, scavenger hunts, and other activities designed for families and children.
Is there a Dog Show at the Nantucket Island Fair?
Yes. The 2026 Dog Show takes place Sunday, September 13. Registration runs from 11:00 AM to noon, with judging scheduled from noon to 1:00 PM.
Can I volunteer at the Nantucket Island Fair?
Yes. The Nantucket Island Fair is accepting volunteers for the 2026 event. Volunteers can register through the official Nantucket Island Fair volunteer sign-up page.
For more Nantucket stories visit our blog at Fisher Real Eastate.