Free events in Nantucket, MA

Free Movie Fridays at Heritage Theaters celebrates a 25th year in business with a summer lineup of family friendly films at no cost, presented by The Sandwich Fundation. Each week features a different movie. Only 200 tickets are available on a first come first served basis, and concessions will be open. A golden ticket twist adds a bit of extra excitement.

Summer Concert Night at the Bandstand features a live set from Entrain at the Mashpee Commons Bandstand. The eclectic six piece from Martha’s Vineyard has been performing and recording since its first show in March 1993, celebrating more than three decades together. The concert is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Naukabout Beer Garden will offer snacks and brews, and Smith Family Popcorn will provide complimentary lightly salted popcorn with additional flavors available for purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted at Bandstand shows. If weather becomes a concern, the event will move indoors and day-of updates will be shared on social media.

Stop by the NiSHA table at Sustainable Nantucket’s farmers markets this summer for details about the shelter and easy ways to support animals on the island. Browse merchandise, pick up resources about programs, and learn more about the annual gala, Unleash the Disco. Leashed, well behaved pets are welcome to say hello.

Freebird Patio Sessions is a new live music residency at Freebird Motor Lodge presented by Cape Symphony Presents as part of the Summer Sessions on 28 series. Shaped by the lodge’s retro, rock and roll spirit, the programming offers carefully curated performances that bring together locals, travelers, artists, and the wider Cape Cod creative community. All shows are free, creating an easygoing setting for poolside relaxation, cocktails, outdoor social time, and discovery at a distinctive boutique destination. Drawing on vintage Americana style and an independent edge, the series blends singer-songwriters, indie acts, DJs, soul-leaning performers, and eclectic regional talent into a focused yet laid-back listening experience. Developed in collaboration with Reverie Brands and aligned with sister efforts like The Uncommoner Hotel and Gypsy Sol Sessions, it champions destination-driven arts programming that strengthens connections between visitors and residents across the Cape.

A lively singalong with a dueling pianos show invites crowd song requests, paired with an evening of dinner and drinks. Expect high-energy piano back-and-forth and plenty of audience participation. There is no cover charge.

Spend time listening to stories shared by community readers at a multigenerational storytime. All ages are welcome, and children 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Presented by the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce, the Yarmouth Summer Concert Series turns Parker's River Beach into a lively seaside stage with free, family friendly music. This date features SummerTown, a Cape Cod band blending classic rock, Americana, and contemporary favorites for an energetic set that encourages singing along and dancing in the sand. Attendees can bring a blanket or beach chair, settle in by the water, and enjoy the ocean breeze, upbeat tunes, and a welcoming community vibe. The series is supported by Cape & Coast Bank, The Steamship Authority, Skipper Chowder House, Signarama, Cape Cod 5, and Cape Cod Gourmet.

Pitchfork presents a free concert at Brooks Park Harwich as part of a concert series.

Enjoy dinner and drinks alongside a night of crokinole, a tabletop game that blends shuffleboard and curling with the competitive vibe of a 1990s classic like Crossfire. Beginners are welcome, with experienced players on hand and all equipment provided. Sign up for free to claim a spot and enjoy friendly games, good food, cold beverages, and maybe a burger in hand.

Strengthen your on-the-water skills with a friendly paddling workshop centered on safety and technique. This free session at Oyster Pond Beach provides practical pointers to help you improve, and there is no requirement to paddle in October.

A no-cost concert for families presented by the Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival takes place at the First Congregational Church of Chatham. Festival Artistic Director Jon Manasse on clarinet leads the program with his son, Jordan, at the piano, and his new daughter-in-law, violist Alyssa Yuge. The music is tailored for children ages four to eight, while all ages are welcome. No tickets are required and casual clothing is encouraged, offering an easy way for young listeners to explore chamber music.

Renée Levesque takes the stage at the Mashpee Commons Bandstand as part of the MVYRADIO Summer Concert Series, a season of free, live performances. Enjoy snacks and beer from Naukabout Beer Garden, plus complimentary lightly salted popcorn from Smith Family Popcorn, with additional flavors available to purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed at Bandstand shows. If weather intervenes, the concert will move indoors and day-of updates will be shared on social media.

Settle in for a free, family friendly screening of Cars at the Mashpee Commons Bandstand. This feature runs 1 hour and 56 minutes and follows a brash race car who gets stuck in a desert town on the way to a big race, where the offbeat local residents help him discover that the journey can matter more than the finish line. Pack chairs and blankets for comfortable seating. Smith Family Popcorn will hand out complimentary lightly salted popcorn, with additional flavors available for purchase, and beverages will be offered at the Naukabout Beer Garden Party. This event is open to the public. Outside alcohol is not permitted. Screenings are weather dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are poor. For day-of updates, check social media.