Free Adventures at the Cape Cod National Seashore in Eastham

The first official weekend of the season, Memorial Day Weekend, was certainly a lot of fun. The Memorial Day Picnic and first ever Scavenger Hunt went really well.

Kevin did a superb job with the ribs and chicken and the brisket was done to perfection. Tried a new German potato salad with bacon and a sweet and sour dressing, which was served warm. The whole 5 pounds was eaten. Erika, one of my friends from Germany, really liked it and asked for the recipe. She said in Germany they never had it warm. Showed her the old family cookbook from 1947. Now she can't wait to make it for their next gathering. We had a corn salad, Navy beans with parsley, scallions and white wine vinegar, sweet potato salad with peanut dressing, lemon vinaigrette pasta salad, watermelon and brownies for desert.

Dinner was followed by the awarding of Scavenger Hunt prizes. The grand prize went to Alan and Karla who earned the most points and gave us ideas for some new questions for the Labor Day Scavenger Hunt. They were pleased with their two-night stay gift certificate at the Inn. Better make your reservations early for Labor Day and get in on all the fun.

The next picnic coming up is Friday, July 3rd. This picnic will be held in conjunction with the fireworks at Rock Harbor. Come and enjoy all the great food and beautiful fireworks. After dinner we walk down to Rock Harbor, and the fireworks are right over head. You feel like you can almost touch them. Those that boom kind of reverberate through ones bones.

While waiting for the Whalewalk Inn summer events, the Cape Cod National Seashore has some programs to get summer rolling. The Seashore has a host of weekly events that are free and informative. Some do require advance reservations, and a couple do have fees (Canoe and Kayak trips).


SUNDAYS

Tour the Three Sisters Lighthouse. Tours are 3:00 PM in May and 4:00 PM in June. Beach fees may apply.

MONDAYS

Walk: Life on the Edge at 3:00 PM for 1 hour for 1 mile. Witness the impact the sea has on the shore and the species that live there. Explore the beach below the bluff and discuss the issues associated with an ever-changing shoreline. Meet at Nauset Light Beach parking area. Beach fees may apply.

Walk: Stormy Nights at 10:00 AM, for 1 hour for 1 mile. Join a ranger for a short walk to discuss some of the more famous ship wrecks that came ashore and discover whether anything remains of the Newcomb Hollow wreck that mysteriously appeared in the winter of 2007/2008. Meet at the Newcomb Hollow Beach parking area, off Ocean View Drive, Wellfleet. Through June 8 only.

Tour the Captain Penniman House and learn about the their home, stories, and travels. Tour starts and 11:00 AM by reservation only. Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0 for details.

TUESDAYS

Call the Salt Pond Visitor Center, 508-255-3421, EXT.0 for hiking information. Explore your Park leaves at varying times and the hike is 3 to 4 miles and takes up to 3 1/2 hours. You will join an experienced ranger and explore the beauty and variety of park destinations, resources and stories. You must be a good walker. Dress for the weather. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray.

Tour the Three Sisters Lighthouses. See Sunday for details.

WEDNESDAYS

Walk: Fort Hill: Window into the Past at 10:00 AM for 1 1/2 hours for 1 1/2 miles. Learn about the history of the various people who inhabited the lands at Fort Hill and surrounding Nauset Marsh. Meet at Hemenway Town Landing (one road north of Fort Hill off Route 6, Eastham. Through June 10 only.

Open House at the Captain Penniman House. Browse through this home. Meet at the Penniman House at Fort Hill, Eastham. Limited Parking.

THURSDAYS

Walk: Shoreline Stroll at 10:00 AM for 1 hour and for 1 mile. Explore the various habitats of forest, marsh, dunes and bay while discovering how they all work together to create a dynamic coastal barrier system known as the Great Island 'gut'. Meet at the Great Island parking area, Wellfleet. Through June 11 only.

Walk: Lore of Nauset Marsh at 3:00 PM for 1 hour for 1 mile. Meet at the terrace at the Salt Pond Visitor Center, Eastham. Learn about this alluring place and what has drawn people to its shores for thousands of years.

FRIDAYS

Canoeing: Gull Pond at 8:00 AM for 2 1/2 hours, 1 to 2 miles. Fee required. Call for reservations at 508-487-1256. Through June 12 only.

Walk: Seal Search at 9:30 AM for 1 1/2 hours for 1 1/2 miles. Hike along the Coast Guard spit and look for seals and learn about the species that might be seen. Meet at Coast Guard Beach parking area, Eastham. Through June 12 only.

Walk: Walking with Authors at 3:00 PM for 1 hour for 1 mile. Experience Cape Cod through the eyes of some of the area's most famous or most beloved authors, such as Beston, Thoreau, Hay and others. See what they saw and hear what they heard. Join local author Dana Eldridge for this stroll at the edge of Nauset Marsh. Meet on the terrace at Salt Pond Visitor Center. Through June 19 only.

SATURDAYS

Canoeing: Salt Pond paddle at 9:30 AM for 1 1/2 hours for 1 to 2 miles. Fee requires. Take a leisurely paddle in the protected waters of Salt Pond and Nauset Marsh in Eastham to explore its beauty. By reservation only. Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0, for information and reservations.

Captain Penniman House Tour. See Monday for more information.

Film: "Portrait of a Coast -- 21st Century" at 1:30 PM for 45 minutes. From the Storm of 1978 to the new Chatham inlet created during the April 2007 nor'easter, Cape Cod's coastline is constantly changing. Join a ranger for a viewing and discussion of this newly-updated film. Takes place at the Salt Pond Visitor Center. No showing on May 30th.

So make your reservations today to enjoy all the beauties of nature that the Cape has to offer. Also be sure to take a whale watching adventure. The naturalists are even surprised at how great the trips have been and how many whales are spotted at each trip. So see you soon at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa (where you can get the best massage ever!)

More Maritime Days' Activities, Wellfleet Harbor Tours, Lectures, and Lighthouse Tours

For those of you who will be visiting us on the Cape beginning on May 25th can still take advantage of our 40% discount for three nights, Sunday through Thursday. Here are some of the events for Maritime Days during that time. Also, heard from guests that whale watching has just be awesome this year. The whale antics are fun to watch and the numbers out there seems to be more than ever. Even the naturalists are excited about the numbers. So make your reservations today and enjoy all that the Cape has to offer.

MONDAY, MAY 25

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 11a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-3 p.m.
Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shortbirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-578


TUESDAY, MAY 26

Lighthouse Inn Tours
Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Location: The Lighthouse Inn, 1 Lighthouse Inn Road, West Dennis
Enjoy a tour of The Lighthouse Inn and West Dennis Light, built in 1855, the only privately owned and operated lighthouse in the US, sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard. Reservations required, space is limited.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-398-2244 for reservations


WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

Lighthouse Inn Tours
Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Location: The Lighthouse Inn, 1 Lighthouse Inn Road, West Dennis
Enjoy a tour of The Lighthouse Inn and West Dennis Light, built in 1855, the only privately owned and operated lighthouse in the US, sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard. Reservations required, space is limited.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-398-2244 for reservations


THURSDAY, MAY 28

“Thermometer-Mania Tour”
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Porter Thermometer Museum, 49 Zarahemla Road, Onset
The curator will provide guided tours of the museum in Onset, the Thermometer Capital of the World. Emphasis will be placed on maritime thermometers. Tour includes the museum’s collection of over 1,000 devices, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-295-5504


FRIDAY, MAY 29

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.
Location: Wellfleet Harbor to Great Island
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783, www.blueclawboattours.com

Cape Cod Maritime Museum Lectures and Book signings
Time: 6 to 7 p.m.
Location: Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St., Hyannis
“The Wreck of the Sparrow-Hawk”: Lecture by Historian and Curator Mark Wilkins.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-775-1723

Maritime Days are in Full Swing on Cape Cod -- Win Two-Night Stay Memorial Weekend -- Follow the Blog for More Details

Cape Cod Maritime Days are in full swing! Please see previous blogs for happenings across Cape Cod. Sunday May 24th , besides being chock full of activities, we will host our Memorial Day Picnic. Kevin and Brendan will be smokin' some great meats and the rest of the staff will be making salads for your dining pleasure. Also, this will be our first ever Scavenger Hunt -- first prize, a two-night stay at the Inn. Some restrictions will apply, but anytime at the Inn is a great time.

SUNDAY, MAY 24

Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 11a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-3 p.m.
Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783

Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak Fishing Tour
Come fish on the kayak sponsored by Eastern Mountain Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com Contact Michael at 508-208-2265. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing.
Cost: $150
Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265

Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties
Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more!
Cost: Free

Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Paddle to Nauset Beach
Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person.
Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211. You will receive directions upon making your reservations.

Marine Rummage Sale
Location: Osterville Museum, 155 West Bay Road, Osterville
Held outside on museum grounds, this old-fashioned rummage sale will feature maritime items. Proceeds to benefit the Osterville Museums’ children’s programs.
Cost: Free to attend
Information: 508-428-5861

Tours at Nauset Lighthouse
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Nauset Light, North Eastham
Guided tours of the lighthouse, open to the public. Please park in the Nauset Beach parking lot.
Cost: Donations are welcome
Information: 508-240-2612

Walking Tour of the Three Sisters Lighthouses
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Location: Meet at Nauset Light Beach parking lot in Eastham
These 19th century lighthouse once provided a beacon for sailors off the shore of nauset Light. Come and learn of their history and importance. Half-mile walk.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-255-3421

We look forward to hearing from you, and remember to book early for Memorial Day Weekend. It promises to be a great weekend.

Cape Cod Life's 2009 Best of the Cape & Islands Readers' Poll

What an exciting day at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa! We just received a congratulatory letter that the Inn is a winner in Cape Cod Life's 2009 Best of the Cape & Islands Readers' Poll. (Not just winners, but GOLD WINNER!)

The letter states "Our readers have a great loyalty to the magazine, and they take pride in voting for their favorite places on the Cape and Islands--you were voted among the very best! The results will be published in the June 2009 issue of Cape Cod Life. By the end of this month, this special issue will be on sale in retail outlets."

Thank you to all who have stayed with us and voted for us. We appreciate your loyalty, and the fact that you took the time to vote for us.

Mother's Day is fast approaching and we do have a little availability, if you are interested in a getaway. Check our availability page for room choice.

Also, Maritime Days are fast approaching and we are offering the mid-week (Sunday through Thursday 40% Off your room rate) special. Weekends are still our off season rates. Read some of the past blogs to see what is being offered for Maritime Days -- kayak trips, nature walks, sea tales and talks, lighthouse tours and much more. Be the first on your block to enjoy this seasons Wellfleet oysters, clam chowdah' and lobster. Golf courses are up and running, so plan a day of golf also. A fun day of golf is 9 holes at Highland Links in Truro, lunch at the Book Store in Wellfleet, while enjoying a water view, and then 9 more holes at Chequessette Golf Course.

A day trip to Nantucket makes for an exciting trip. Book through us and receive $6.00 off on each ticket. These tickets are available for the Hy-Line Cruises. You can upgrade these tickets to the first class section and receive complimentary breakfast treats and evening cheese and crackers. You can also upgrade to the Hy-Line Fast Ferry upon arrival for the 40 minute trip over. You will still have the $6.00 discount, but it cannot be booked in advance.

Make your reservations today and we look forward to seeing you at the Inn.

40% Discount on Room Rates during Cape Cod Maritime Days--Enjoy Lighthouse Tours, Kayak Trips, Nature Hikes

Just wanted to give you a preview of what May will bring. If you are planning on an April trip, read further down for April Events. Maritime Days are a great spring treat full of activities for visitors and locals alike. Brewster in Bloom Weekend, the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of May, has many fun-filled activities. Cape Cod Maritime Days begin on May 13th. The list below is only Saturday's activities and the rest of the activities will follow in future blogs.

Remember that at the end of Maritime Days is the Memorial Day Weekend. Here at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa, we will celebrate that weekend with our traditional picnic. Kevin and Brendan will be smoking ribs, chicken, and beef brisket. YUMMMMM! This year to get people in the summer mood, we will have a scavenger hunt. So while enjoying the beaches, shopping, tours and such, you will be able to pick up scavenger points. Prizes will be awarded. The picnic will be held on Sunday evening of that weekend, so make your reservations early to get the jump on your summer tan.

Cape Cod Maritime Days Schedule of Events

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13



Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape
Time: 10-11 a.m. and 2-3 p.m..
Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay
Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred.
Cost: $20 per passenger
Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783

Cape Cod Maritime Museum Lectures and Book signings
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St., Hyannis
“A Ruinous and Unhappy War: New England and the War of 1812”: Lecture and Book Signing by Author James Ellis, in cooperation with Books By The Sea.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-775-1723, www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org

New Life for a Life-Saving Station: The Restoration of the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station
Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Province Lands Visitor Center, Race Point Road, Provincetown
Join Cape Cod National Seashore Historian William Burke for a look at the ongoing restoration of the historic Old Harbor Life-Saving Station, one of the last stations of its kind in the nation. Meet at the Province Lands Visitor Center auditorium for a 30-minute discussion and slideshow about the history of the station and the plans to restore it, inside and out, to its 1900 appearance. Then, drive 5 minutes to the station for a first-hand look at the restoration progress to date.
Cost: Free
Information: 508-255-3421 x14


Make your reservations early! Don't forget to make your Spa reservations at the time of booking. Also, weekday stays do qualify for the 40% discount when you stay three or more nights.

April Happenings on Cape Cod -- Romance, Music, Hiking, and Art

Hope everyone had a great Super Bowl weekend. We were very fortunate to have neighbors in to celebrate the game with chili and all the fixings, plus some great deserts to cool off the heat of the chili.

If you still haven't made your reservations for 2009, please check our special's page for details for our 40% off during the spring on weekdays. Also, check our honeymoon package and plan early so you will have the room you want for this special time in your lives. If you are attending the Cape Cod Institute, mention the 10% discount -- good to March 31st. Check your syllabus and make your reservations today.

Here are a couple of events for the beginning of April. We open the first weekend in April, so hope to see you then. Here are some events for your getaway enjoyment -- remember too, that the spa will be open for exercise, sauna, hot tub, resistance pool, and of course, the best massage on the Cape.

Winter Wednesday Walks:

Join our hearty little group on Wednesday afternoons for a fun and informative nature walk on the Upper Cape led by Thornton W. Burgess Society Naturalist Patricia Gonser.

Meet at 1:00 pm at the Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich and travel together by van to different conservation areas each week. Walks end at 4:00 pm.

Call 508-888-6870 to register.

Fee is $8 for members, $10 for non-members.

Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum Show Art Treasures

The Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum (PMPM) is proud to announce that it will be exhibiting world renowned art treasures for public viewing at a special winter opening.

On Valentines Day/President’s Day weekend, The PMPM will open its doors to the public with free admission to view five paintings that are on loan from the Town of Provincetown Art Collection.

These incredible works of art are on loan and being exhibited for the first time since the closing of Provincetown Town Hall due to the current renovation project.

The exhibition features the 1915 masterpiece by Charles W. Hawthorne, “The Crew of the Philomena.” Other works on display are by artists Max Bohm, Frederick Judd Waugh, William Halsall and George Elmer Browne. Hawthorne established the Cape Cod School of Art in 1899 and taught hundreds of artists who traveled to Provincetown to study with him until his untimely death in 1930 at the age of 58. Bohm was Hawthorne’s teaching assistant. Call 508-487-1310 for more details. Be sure to put this event on your list of things to do on Cape Cod.

Cape Cod Horticultural Conference

Get a jump on your spring gardening plans. Learn how to have the most beautiful garden ever. Sponsored by the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension and the Master Gardeners Association of Cape Cod.

Saturday April 4th 2009, from 8:30AM to 4PM.

Held at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center, Barnstable High School, 744 Main Street, Hyannis, MA.

Cost $45.00; All paid registrations received before March 13th will include lunch. Walk-in registrations welcome on the day of the event, but these will not include lunch.

Speakers:

Bill Cullina “What the Heck Will Grow Here?” Native plants for difficult situations.

Mal Condon “Hydrangeas, Hydrangeas” All about hydrangeas including new & over-looked varieties.

Alan Armitage “Crazy Plants for Crazy People” Annuals and perennials to add pizazz to your garden.

To receive registration materials call the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension at 508-375-6690 during business hours.

Plant sale, door prizes and book signing by the speakers.

For more information call: 508-375-6690.

Eventide Arts presents "Brian Morris & Friends"

Composer/songwriter Brian Morris appears in concert as part of the Eventide Arts "Voices of Cape Cod" series. Morris has been a professional composer for over 25years. His compositions have been heard on national television and radio, and in various other media. As as songwriter, he has won numerous awards, including two Grand Prize awards in Eventide’s annual "Songfest" competition, and First Place in the Great American Song Competition (Gospel category) in 2005.

Brian will be joined in this program by fellow singers and musicians well-known to Cape audiences. So join in on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM & Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 2:30 PM.

Location:
Gertrude Lawrence Stage
Dennis Union Church
713 Main St., Route 6A
Dennis MA 02638
Contact Information:
Box Office
508-398-8588

Mendelssohn Celebration

April 4, 2009, Saturday 8:00 pm
April 5, 2009, Sunday 3:00 pm

Barnstable Performing Arts Center, 744 West Main Street, Hyannis.

For tickets call 508-362-1111 or order online at www.capesymphony.org

Jung-Ho Pak, Conductor
Phillipe Quint, Violin - Chorus pro Musica Women’s Voices
A musical and dramatic tribute to Mendelssohn on the 200th anniversary of his birth.

Program
Felix Mendelssohn

- Hebrides Overture, “Fingal’s Cave,” Op. 26

- Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in E minor, Op. 64

- A Midsummer Night’s Dream: A Dramatic Presentation

Inspired by the eerie echoes of waves in the sea caves of Scotland, Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture depicts the atmosphere of a natural cathedral – an overwhelming vastness punctuated by strange sounds and colors. The utmost elegance, wit and fluency of Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in E Minor are passionately expressed by violinist and Grammy Award nominee, Philippe Quint. With its fairies, elves and magical spells, A Midsummer Night’s Dream captures the magical tone of the Shakespeare play. Talented choral singers from Chorus pro Musica and accomplished Shakespeare actors bring an authenticity to the stage. A celebration of the Mendelssohn bicentennial (b. 1809).

Guest Artist
From the moment he takes the stage, violinist and Grammy Award-nominee, Phillipe Quint, captivates audiences with his charismatic presence. Beyond his recognized star power, Mr. Quint is often lauded for a “poetic lyricism” in repertoire that ranges from Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms to the leading composers of our time.

Known for innovative programming and high quality performances, Chorus pro Musica has built a superb reputation as one of the great choruses of New England. The Women’s Chorus represents the organization’s 100 highly talented musicians.

Location:
Barnstable Performing Arts Center
744 West Main Street
Hyannis
Contact Information:
508-362-1111

Stay at the Whalewalk Inn with that special someone and enjoy all that the Cape has to offer.

Spring Break Discount on the Outer Cape Cod at the Whalewalk Inn

Greetings from Belize! We are resting up for the Spring season on Cape Cod, when gardens will be sprouting with daffodils, cherry blossoms, pansies, and the amazing wisteria vines. The Whalewalk Inn's kitchen will be merry with the scents of baking banana bread, frying bacon, Captain Harding's eggs and other delights. Beaches will be quiet for romantic walks, fishing, birding, and watching sunrises and sunsets. We look forward to seeing new guests and welcoming back old friends.

Remember to book your spring get away and take advantage of our 40% off discount which will also help us celebrate our 40th Anniversary. We would like to share this significant event in our lives, and also do our part to boost our economy, by offering our guests a 40% discount, Sunday through Thursday, during the months of April, May, and the first two weeks in June. We do require a three-night minimum for this celebration of Spring and our lives together.

And, once upon a time having been a teacher, those teachers coming to the Cape for spring break, bring your lesson plan book. We will give you a split of champagne for all your hard work, and you may have your own romantic toast to spring.

Do not forget to book your massages when booking your reservation.

So reinvigorate your romance with a Spring stay with us and enjoy this budding time on Cape Cod.

Cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid Sunday through Thursday with a three-night minimum. Friday and Saturday nights are regular off-season rates. Memorial Weekend begins our in-season rates. This special is valid for direct booking only and not when booking through a travel agent.

Oyster Fest (Festival) in Wellfleet, Cape Cod Schedule of Events

Looking for the ultimate in festival fun? Then come on down to Cape Cod and enjoy one of the last festivals of the season -- The Wellfleet Oyster Fest.

Here are the activities and times for a spectacular weekend:

Friday, October 17, 2008

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Number and Shirt Pick-up for Sunday's 5K Road Race
Baker’s Field Recreation Building across from Mayo Beach.

9:00 pm - 1:00 am Disco Night at the Lighthouse Restaurant
Lighthouse Restaurant, 317 Main Street

Dance to disco classics at this classic OysterFest tradition.


Saturday, October 18, 2008

8:00 am - 9:00 am Shucky's Day: part 1, On the Flats
A unique two-part local experience! Meet at Cove Road Parking lot for part 1, a visit to the grant of acquaculturist Jim O'Connell to tour his flats and harvest your own Wellfleet oysters which you will later shuck and enjoy paired with wine (part 2). Bring waterproof shoes if you have them. Cost is $50 per person, limit 15 participants. For information and registration, email Heidi Clemmer or phone 508-340-2424.

10:00 am - 5:00 pm Main Street Festival
Main Street and Town Hall Parking Lot

Food, Arts & Crafts and Education Booths open. Shuttle Service available from designated beach parking lots and Town Pier. Walk-in parking from Cove Corner Parking Lot and Wellfleet Elementary School. Handicap parking and accessible shuttle from Mayo Beach lot.

10:00 am - 5:00 pm SPAT Booth
Located just behind Town Hall

Stop by for information, schedule, registration forms, directions and lots of great OysterFest merchandise.

10:00 am - 10:15 am OysterFest 2008 Kick-off
Announcements and DJ from the Main Stage behind Town Hall

10:00 am - 1:00 pm U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Boat
Public dock at Wellfleet Pier (adjacent to Mac's Seafood)

Meet U.S. Coast Guard crew members and explore the 47-foot motor life boat designed as a first response rescue resource in high seas, surf and heavy weather environments. Open to all, free of charge.

10:00 am - 3:00 pm The Woodfleet Project Art Auction
Located behind Town Hall next to Hatch's Fish Market

TODAY ONLY: Wellfleet's own mobile art gallery brings one-of-a-kind works of fine art created by dozens of admired artists to the heart of the OysterFest. Don't miss the exciting action - bid early, bid often and take home an affordable piece by any one of the featured local and nationally-known artists. Bidding begins at $20 and all proceeds go to support SPAT's educational mission, scholarship and grants program.


10:00 am - 5:00 pm “Shellfishing in Wellfleet: 19th-20th Century”
Wellfleet Historical Society, 266 Main Street
Admission is free to a special exhibit in our new Annex of arts and artifacts concerning the history of the shellfishing industry in Wellfleet. Also, enjoy a look back through time at our quintessential Cape Cod village.


10:30 am - 11:15 am CrabGrass (progressive Bluegrass & Folk)
Music on the Main Stage

11:00 am - 4:00 pm Family/Children’s Entertainment Area
Entrance on Main Street at Wellfleet Preservation Hall

Featuring clowns, moon bounce, face-painting, oyster jewelry making, pumpkin painting, cotton candy, balloon twisting and more right off Main Street, but away from the crowds in the enchanting park behind Wellfleet Preservation Hall (the old Catholic Church).

11:00 am - 12:00 pm Haunted Wellfleet
Wellfleet Public Library, 55 West Main Street

Seems like some people love Wellfleet so much they never want to leave! Ghost hunters and authors of Cape Encounters, Dan Gordon and Gary Joseph, talk about Wellfleet's ghosts and haunted places. Admission is free.

11:00 am - 12:00 pm Guided Beachcombing Walk on Mayo Beach
Mayo Beach
Join staff from the Massachusetts Audubon Society Wellfleet Bay Sanctuary for a beachcombing and birding walk along Mayo Beach. Weather permitting, beachcombers will have the opportunity to wade with a seine net to see what small fish may be in the Harbor.

11:00 am - 1:00 pm Number and Shirt Pick-up for Sunday's 5K Road Race
Baker’s Field Recreation Building across from Mayo Beach

Advance registration available or download registration form here.

11:00 am - 1:00 pm Tennis Round Robin
Baker’s Field Tennis Court across from Mayo Beach

Sponsored by the Wellfleet Recreation Department. Information form available here or by visiting the Recreation Department, Town Hall, 300 Main Street or by contacting Becky Rosenberg: phone #508.349.0330

11:30 am - 12:30 pm Cooking Demonstration: Homemade Clam Chowder
Masonic Hall, corner of Bank & Commercial Streets

Seasonal South Wellfleet resident, JJ Gonson, voted Best Personal Chef 2008 by "Best of Boston", will prepare Clam Chowder with Bacon "like my mom used to make" featuring local bacon and Wellfleet clams. For more on JJ Gonson, visit her blog at www.cuisineenlocale.com. Cost is $10/per person, participation is limited to 75 people, online reservation system available October 1st.

11:30 am - 12:15 pm XCape (Motown, 50's thru 70's rock)
Music on the Main Stage

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Kid's Interactive Steel Drum Workshop
Family/Children's Entertainment Area Stage

Erik Sewer, originally from the Virgin Islands, will lead a steel drum workshop in the Kid's Area from 12 to 1 both days on a first come basis. Experience playing the island sounds on the steel drums and learn from a real pro!

1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Oyster Shuck-Off, Shucking Contest Preliminaries
Main Stage

Emceed by local hero and reporter, Eric Williams, host of CapeCast, the daily webcast of the Cape Cod Times, seen at capecodonline.com/capecast. Register at the SPAT booth by 12:3o pm. Advance registration form available here or for more information contact Tracy Vanderschmidt. Prizes awarded:

1st Place-$1,000 2nd Place-$500 3rd Place-$250

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Erik and His Steel Band
Family/Children's Entetainment Area Stage

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Cooking Demonstration: Oyster Cornbread Stuffing
Masonic Hall, corner of Bank & Commercial Streets

Seasonal South Wellfleet resident, JJ Gonson, voted Best Personal Chef 2008 by "Best of Boston", will prepare Oyster Cornbread Stuffing, "a Gonson family favorite for holidays and more". For more on JJ Gonson, visit her blog at www.cuisineenlocale.com. Cost is $10/per person, participation is limited to 75 people, online reservation system available October 1st.

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Book Talk: The Famous Beds of Wellfleet
Wellfleet Public Library, 55 West Main Street

Author and local historian, David Wright, will speak about the history of Welllfeet shellfishing and read from his new book, The Famous Beds of Wellfleet. Sponsored in part by a grant from Wellfleet SPAT. Admission is free.

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm The Woodfleet Project Art Auction
Next to the SPAT booth directly behind Town Hall

Don't miss the exciting final 30 minutes of bidding and the opportunity to add a beautiful piece of art to your home. Benefits SPAT''s educational mission, scholarship and grants program.

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Rip It Ups (Rockabilly)
Music on the Main Stage

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Shucky's Day: part 2, Sunset Soiree
Sol Restaurant, 15 Kendrick Ave (Mayo Beach)

Part 2 of Shucky's Day continues with a personal hands-on shucking demonstration followed by wine pairing of several exquisite offerings to sip while enjoying your own catch as the sun begins to drop over the bay. The shucking gloves and oyster knife are yours to keep.

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Spelling Bee
Wellfleet Public Library, 55 West Main Street

Join the craze and test your spelling skills at the annual OysterFest Spelling Bee with children's and adult rounds, prizes and fun! Register at the SPAT booth or the library by 3:00 pm. Registration form available here or for more information contact Ed Miller.

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Pre-race Spaghetti Dinner
Masonic Hall at the corner of Bank and Commercial Street

5K road racers load up on carbs, but open to all.


Sunday, October 19, 2008

TBD Oyster Grant Tour
Wellfleet Shellfish Department, 30 Kendrick Ave

Sponsored by the Wellfleet Shellfish Department. Meet at Wellfleet Shellfish Dept for a guided tour of an oyster grant. For more information, contact Wellfleet Shellfish Constable Andy Koch: phone #508-349-0325.

9:00 am 5K Adult Road Race
Mayo Beach Parking Lot

Sponsored by the Wellfleet Recreation Department. Check-in and on-site registration beginning at 7:30 am at Baker's Field Recreation Department. Advance registration form available here or visit the Recreation Department at Town Hall, or contact Becky Rosenberg: phone #508.349.0330

10:00 am - 5:00 pm Main Street Festival
Main Street and Town Hall Parking Lot

Food, Arts and Crafts & Education Booths open. Shuttle Service available from designated beach parking lots and Town Pier. Walk-in parking from Cove Corner Parking Lot and Wellfleet Elementary School. Handicap accessible parking and shuttle at Mayo Beach lot.

10:00 am - 5:00 pm SPAT Booth
Located just behind Town Hall Stop by for information, registration forms, directions and lots of great OysterFest merchandise.
10:00 am 1.4 Mile Children's Fun Run
Mayo Beach Parking Lot

Sponsored by the Wellfleet Recreation Department. Check-in and on-site registration beginning at 9:30 am at Baker's Field Recreation Department. Advance registration form available here or visit the Recreation Department at Town Hall or contact Becky Rosenberg: phone #508.349.0330

10:00 am - 10:15 am OysterFest 2008 Kick-off, Day 2
DJ and Announcements from the Main Stage behind Town Hall

12:00 pm - 3:00 pm U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Boat
Public dock at Wellfleet Pier (adjacent to Mac's Seafood)

Meet U.S. Coast Guard crew members and explore the 47-foot motor life boat designed as a first response rescue resource in high seas, surf and heavy weather environments. Open to all, free of charge.

10:00 am - 5:00 pm “Shellfishing in Wellfleet: 19th-20th Century”
Wellfleet Historical Society, 266 Main Street

Admission is free to a special exhibit in our new Annex of arts and artifacts concerning the history of the shellfishing industry in Wellfleet. Also, enjoy a look back through time at our quintessential Cape Cod village.


10:30 am - 11:15 am Crabgrass (progressive Bluegrass &Folk)
Music on the Main Stage

11:00 am - 1:00 pm Taste the Terroir
Masonic Hall, corner of Bank & Commerical Streets

To learn more about oysters, clams and terroir (the french word for "taste of place"), join Fisheries & Aquaculture Specialist Bill Walton from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution for an educational and fun "taste-the-terroir" seminar. Participants will sample 3 types of oysters and 3 types of clams from different sections of Wellfleet Harbor. Walton will provide details about the biology behind Wellfleet oysters and aquaculture in the harbor, while guiding a discussion to taste the differences. Wellfleet shellfishermen will also be available for questions. Cost: $10/per person, participation is limited to 50 people, online reservation system online October 1st.


11:00 am – 4:00 pm Family/Children’s Entertainment Area
Entrance on Main Street at Wellfleet Preservation Hall

Featuring clowns, moon bounce, face-painting, oyster jewelry making, pumpkin painting, cotton candy, balloon twisting and more right off Main Street, but away from the crowds in the enchanting park behind Wellfleet Preservation Hall (the old Catholic Church).

11:30 am - 12:30 pm Zoe Lewis and her Elastic Band (jazzy latin & quirky originals)
Music on the Main Stage

11:30 am - 12:30 pm Guided Beachcombing Walk on Mayo Beach
Mayo Beach

Join staff from the Massachusetts Audubon Society Wellfleet Bay Sanctuary for a beachcombing and birding walk along Mayo Beach. Weather permitting, beachcombers will have the opportunity to wade with a seine net to see what small fish may be in the Harbor.

12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Poekoelan Demonstration
Family/Children's Entertainment Area Stage

Sponsored by the Tulen Center for Martial Arts and Wellness/Willy's Gym. Poekoelan is a rare and beautiful Indonesian martial art.

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Kid's Interactive Steel Drum Workshop
Family/Children's Entertainment Area Stage

Erik Sewer, originally from the Virgin Islands, will lead a steel drum workshop in the Kid's Area from 12 to 1 both days on a first come basis. Experience playing the island sounds on the steel drums and learn from a real pro!


12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Book Talk: The Famous Beds of Wellfleet
Wellfleet Public Library, 55 West Main Street

Author and local historian, David Wright, will speak about the history of Welllfeet shellfishing and read from his new book, The Famous Beds of Wellfleet. Sponsored in part by a grant from Wellfleet SPAT. Admission is free.

12:45 pm - 1:00 pm Pirate Shellfish Biggest Oyster Competition
Main Stage

Sponsored by Pirate Shellfish. Announcement of prizewinner! Oysters from participating shellfishers are collected and measured on Saturday morning to determine the biggest oyster. Owner of the biggest oyster and first prize winner will be announced. For more information on participating, email info@pirateshellfish.com.

1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Oyster Shuck-Off, Shucking Contest Finals
Main Stage

Emceed by local hero and reporter, Eric Williams, host of CapeCast, the daily webcast of the Cape Cod Times, seen at capecodonline.com/capecast. Finalists check in at SPAT booth by 12:30 pm. Prizes awarded!

1st Place-$1,000 2nd Place-$500 3rd Place - $250

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Haunted Wellfleet
Wellfleet Public Library, 55 West Main Street

Seems like some people love Wellfleet so much they never want to leave! Ghost hunters and authors of Cape Encounters, Dan Gordon and Gary Joseph, talk about Wellfleet's ghosts and haunted places. Admission is free.

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Cooking Demonstration: Paella
Masonic Hall, corner of Bank & Commercial Streets

Homegrown Wellfleet chef, Fred Vanderschmidt, showcases 20 years of culinary expericnce that began at the Lighthouse Restaurant and culminated in serving as Executive Chef at Aesop's Tables. Fred will prepare an authentic paella (traditional Spanish rice dish) with Wellfleet oysters and clams. Cost: $10/per person, participation is limited to 50 people, online reservation system online October 1st.

3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Zoe Lewis's Funtabulous Show for Kids
Music on the Family/Children's Entertainment Area Stage

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Booty Vortex (disco, dance & funk)
Music on the Main Stage

5:00 pm OysterFest closes
See you next year!

There are still rooms available at the Inn for this fun filled weekend. So book early and enjoy our off-season rates.

Cape Cod National Seashore Passes for Seniors

WOW! Did you Know 62 Isn't so Bad? Here are three really important items for those turning (or have already turned)62 years of age. First of all, the National Parks offers, for a one-time fee of $10, a National Park Pass that is good for any National Park in the USA, and it is good for the whole of your life.

Secondly, Cape Cod National Seashore, which is a nationally recognized premier destination for those visiting the Cape, is a place where you can use this great little pass.

Created by an act of Congress in 1961, here is what the National Seashore has to offer: 43,000 acres of coastline, dunes, kettle ponds and trails. It is a vibrant source of education and entertainment for locals and visitors alike. You can sightsee by car, canoe, bicycle, kayak, or backpack. There are six beaches, 11 self-guided nature trails, nine lighthouses, numberous picnic areas and countless breathtaking views. At the Salt Pond Visitor's Center, open from 9 to 4:30 daily, pick up trail maps, event calendars, and knowledge of the area. There is also a visitor center in the Province Lands in Provincetown, where the bicycle trail offers a challenge.

Third, you can spend your vacation at the Whalewalk Inn on our three acre compound. Become a part of the history of this 1830s whaling captain's house. Also, check out our wildlife -- bunnies, coyote, deer, and birds galore: Gold Finch, Red-tailed Hawks, Robins, Blue Jays, Cardinals, Chickadees, the Phoebe bird, Bob Whites, Orioles, Red-winged Blackbirds, Crows, Morning Doves, Sparrows, Grackle, and squirrels, who think they are birds.

September is a beautiful time of year on the Cape. It is warm in the day, cool at night, and the water is actually the warmest of the whole summer. Get into the nature of the Cape by also visiting the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History 508-896-3867, Green Briar Nature Center 508-888-6870, Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary 508-362-7475, Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary 508-349-2615, and the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, which is the country's oldest acquarium for public education and scientific research 508-495-2267.

SURF'S UP

Follow your dream and learn the ins and outs of surfing -- or learn just how to be able to stand up when that long awaited wave heads your way. The Pump House supplies your long board, wet suit and an hour of lessons and surfing -- all for $50 for singles and $40 is the group rate. Who knows maybe you will meet another couple at breakfast who also would enjoy an hour of adventure. Pump House has all you need for a fun-filled summer on Cape Cod! From snorkeling, to beach fashion and surf updates -- they've got you covered! Call 508-240-2226 for details.

Now if you are an arm chair surfer, this Sunday at 4:30 and 8:30 the Beach Boys will be here at the Melody Tent in Hyannis. COME DRESSED IN YOUR TROPICAL BEST AND BE ONE OF THE FIRST 100 GUESTS THROUGH THE GATES TO RECEIVE A FREE LEI!

The sun-kissed sounds of summer will reverberate under the tent again this year when the Beach Boys return to take the stage. The quintessential all-American band, the Beach Boys wrap their harmonies around the lyrics of songs like no others can, all the while conjuring up images reminiscent of beaches and bikinis, sun and surf, woody wagons and waxed down boards. "Wouldn't it be Nice " to bask in the warmth of such pop classics as "Good Vibrations," "Barbara Ann," "Surfer Girl," "Kokomo," "Little Deuce Coupe," "California Girls," "Surfin' USA," "Help Me, Rhonda,"… their list of hits is like an endless summer! So grab your party shirt, catch a wave and cruise on down for the concert where you can't help but have "Fun, Fun, Fun!" The Melody Tent Box Office is open daily from noon until 6 PM for in-person sales; or call Ticketmaster at 1-800-347-0808.