Daffodil Festival on Nantucket: A Bloom-Filled Tradition Returns
Every spring, Nantucket transforms into a vibrant sea of yellow as over three million daffodils bloom across the island. The Daffodil Festival—affectionately known as “Daffy Weekend” by locals—kicks off the island’s social season with vintage charm, flower-fueled fun, and timeless tradition. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan, the 2025 Daffodil Festival promises fresh blooms and unforgettable memories.
A Brief History of the Daffodil Festival
The Daffodil Festival began in the 1970s thanks to the vision of Jean MacAusland, a longtime Nantucket resident and publisher of Gourmet magazine. She spearheaded a movement to plant thousands of daffodil bulbs across the island as a way to beautify Nantucket and mark the return of spring. What started as a beautification effort quickly evolved into a beloved celebration of creativity, community, and color.
Over the years, the festival has grown to include antique car parades, picnics, flower shows, dog pageants, and children’s parades, turning downtown Nantucket and ‘Sconset into a joyful showcase of springtime spirit.
Daffodil Festival 2025: What to Expect
This year’s Daffodil Festival will be held April 25–27, 2025, with events for all ages taking place throughout the island. Highlights include:
Antique Car Parade & Picnic in ‘Sconset
Watch dozens of vintage cars decked out in daffodils cruise from Main Street to Siasconset. The celebration culminates in a colorful tailgate picnic on the lawns—bring your own blanket and your best daffy-themed attire!
Daffodil Flower Show
Hosted by the Nantucket Garden Club at Bartlett’s Farm, this juried show celebrates the island’s blooms with impressive floral displays and horticultural creativity.
Daffy Dog Parade
A crowd favorite, the Daffy Dog Parade invites Nantucket’s four-legged residents (and visitors!) to strut their stuff in festive, flower-inspired costumes.
Children’s Parade
Little ones dressed in daffodil-themed outfits parade through town to the delight of all. It’s a family-friendly moment not to miss.
Shopping, Dining & Spring Specials
Many of the island’s boutiques and restaurants participate in the celebration with daffodil-themed menus, window displays, and weekend-only offers.
Where to Stay: Spring into Veranda House
As Nantucket welcomes spring, there’s no better place to stay than Veranda House, freshly reimagined and reopened in the heart of town. Steps from Main Street and the parade route, Veranda House offers luxurious accommodations, timeless island charm, and sweeping harbor views from the rooftop terrace.
This Daffodil Festival, surround yourself with beauty inside and out—book your spring stay today and be part of the blooming tradition.
