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  • 🐚 Lower Cape’s Best Lobster Roll? Locals Are Voting Now 🗳️ (Aug 7–Aug 13)

🐚 Lower Cape’s Best Lobster Roll? Locals Are Voting Now 🗳️ (Aug 7–Aug 13)

Author

Arthur Radtke
August 07, 2025

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Your crawlspace might be plotting against you.

Your crawlspace might be plotting against you.
But the real showdown? It’s butter vs. mayo.
Lower Cape, we’ve braved damp ductwork and parking lot mayhem to track down 16 of the juiciest lobster rolls on the elbow. Now it’s your turn.
Which roll still haunts your off-season cravings?

One vote. One roll. One delicious way to settle the great Cape debate.
Voting wraps August 12 — don’t wait ‘til the tourists head home to make it count.

— Arthur
🏡 Real estate guy, crawlspace veteran, Lower Cape neighbor

🐾 Is Your Crawlspace Plotting Against You?

Because if something moves when you walk past the vent, it’s already too late.

Let me tell you about the time I lost a flashlight under a house in East Harwich.

I crawled in to check something minor—a duct sagging a little—and ten minutes later, I was army-crawling through damp sand, brushing past spider webs the size of beach towels, whispering prayers to the god of sump pumps.

When I finally backed out, I was covered in cobwebs, one sock down, no flashlight.
Never went back.
That flashlight is still down there—probably leading a mold cult.

💧 Moisture Is Always the First Clue

If your house starts smelling like a wet boogie board, it’s not nostalgia—it’s your crawlspace.

Most folks in Brewster or Chatham don’t even realize how close their floor joists are to the water table… until their rug gets wavy.

What helps:
👉 A vapor barrier (grab one from Hinckley’s)
👉 A dehumidifier that can handle Cape air in August
👉 Some courage. And maybe bug spray.

🐭 Wildlife Moves In Quietly

If you haven’t checked your vents lately, someone else might have.
Mice. Squirrels. Raccoons.

A woman I know in South Orleans found a skunk snoozing under her mudroom.
The smell got into the baseboards. The baseboards.

What helps:
👉 Hardware cloth—not foam. (They chew foam like it's snack mix.)
👉 Scratchy sounds after dark? Call your local pest guy.
👉 If it smells like someone grilled onions down there? Yeah. Skunk.

🌱 Mold Is That Roommate You Didn’t Invite

If your crawlspace has insulation hanging like seaweed and wood that looks fuzzy… don’t wait.

Mold doesn’t knock. It moves in, eats your floors, and ruins your sinuses.

One guy in Harwich didn’t notice until mushrooms popped up under his laundry.
Actual mushrooms.

What helps:
👉 HEPA vac + respirator (if you’re DIY-ing)
👉 Spray foam insulation (pricey but worth it)
👉 A pro—if the word “infestation” is in play

🧽 What Locals Know

Your crawlspace isn’t just under your house.
It’s in your air. Your walls. Your electric bill.

If it’s been more than two seasons since you peeked in there…
It’s probably plotting something.

Five minutes with a flashlight can save you five grand.

And if your flashlight disappears down there forever?
Hey—welcome to the club.

Got a crawlspace horror story? I’d love to hear it.

And if you’re house hunting—ask about the crawlspace before you fall for the wraparound porch.
(Trust me. The porch won’t save you from mushrooms.)

Whether you’re battling mold, mice, or mortgages…
you don’t have to go it alone (or go under the house again).
There’s help nearby. No flashlight required.

Show Us Your Cape

Fog rolling off the bay. Sandy feet on the porch. A garden gone gloriously rogue. That blink-and-you-miss-it sunset only you caught.

Every week, we feature one unforgettable photo in the newsletter. But now we’re dreaming bigger: a real-life, neighbor-built gallery of the Lower Cape.
No filters. No fluff. Just the quiet, perfect, wildly human moments that feel like home.

Soon, you’ll be able to vote, tag your friends, and maybe win a local treat or two. No pro gear needed—just your eye for what makes this place magic.

📸 Got a photo? Send it to: [email protected]

Let’s show the world what real Cape life looks like—one photo at a time.

Where the kayak waits and the marsh meets morning light —
a quiet breath at the edge of Rock Harbor Rd.
📍 Orleans, MA | 📸 Cindy Sullivan

🦞 The Lower Cape Lobster Roll Showdown
16 contenders. 4 towns. One shell of a summer.

Out here on the elbow of the Cape, we take our lobster rolls seriously. But not all rolls are created equal. Some are piled high with warm, buttery chunks that drip down your wrist. Others go the classic route—cool and creamy, with just a whisper of mayo. From beach shacks and roadside cafés to white-tablecloth surprises, we tracked down 16 of the Lower Cape’s best, bite by glorious bite.

This isn’t about who makes the fanciest roll. It’s about who makes the one you still dream about in February. The one that tastes like sunshine, sand, and sea breeze. The one you tell your cousin from Jersey they have to try.

So roll up your sleeves and loosen your belts. The Lower Cape's lobster roll bracket is officially on—and yes, you can (and should) try them all.

Let the cravings begin.

🦞 BREWSTER BRACKET

Where butter meets brioche, and nostalgia hits with a side of chips.

🧈 JT’s Seafood: The Hot Buttered Knockout
📍 2689 Main St, Brewster, MA

If Cape Cod had a scent, this would be it: warm butter, toasted bun, fresh ocean air. JT’s rolls come two ways—chilled with a light mayo kiss, or warm and dripping with melted gold. Either option will ruin you for supermarket lobster salad forever. But the hot version? That’s the heavyweight.

🌿 Freeman’s Grill: The Golf Course Secret Weapon
📍 Captains Golf Course, 1000 Freemans Way, Brewster, MA

You don’t need a tee time to find this gem. Over 6 ounces of lobster tucked into a toasted roll, dressed just enough with tarragon-lemon aioli. Freeman’s nails that breezy balance between upscale flavor and backyard picnic. Local tip: if it’s on the board, order it. It disappears fast.

✨ Spinnaker: The Brioche Roll They Don’t List
📍 2019 Main St, Brewster, MA

No sign. No menu mention. But ask—and you’ll unlock one of Brewster’s best-kept secrets. Spinnaker’s off-menu roll is a minimalist dream: citrusy mayo, hand-picked lobster (never frozen), and a buttered brioche that could charm a French chef. Elegant enough for date night. Delicious enough for repeat offenses.

🧺 Cobie’s: The Roll You Eat in a Beach Towel
📍 3260 Main St, Brewster, MA

This roll is summer. Grab it after the beach, eat it in your flip-flops, and embrace the slight crunch of sand in your chips. The chilled version is classic Cape nostalgia. The warm roll? Rich, buttery, and best enjoyed with the windows down and seagulls circling. No frills. No fuss. Just perfect.

🐟 CHATHAM CHALLENGERS

Where boat-to-bun freshness meets Main Street swagger.

⚓ Chatham Pier Fish Market: From Boat to Bun
📍 45 Barcliff Ave Extension, Chatham, MA

If you’re lucky, the lobster in your roll made eye contact with a deckhand this morning. This spot serves it straight: chilled and clean with just a whisper of mayo, or poached in butter and stacked on a soft brioche. You’ll eat it harborside, seals barking in the background, sea breeze in your hair. It doesn’t get more Cape than this.

🍻 Chatham Squire: The Pub Roll That Packs a Punch
📍 487 Main St, Chatham, MA

Part tavern, part institution, Squire’s lobster roll is as bold as the bar crowd. Go cold for a mayo-light, no-nonsense heap of sweet meat. Or go hot for the full buttered experience, served in a griddled roll that absorbs every drop. It’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s legit.

🥪 Chatham Perk: The Underdog You’ll Root For
📍 307 Orleans Rd, North Chatham, MA

Blink and you’ll miss it—but don’t. This roll flies under the radar, but it delivers every time. A torpedo-style bun overstuffed with claw and knuckle meat, dressed with restraint, and perfect for grab-and-go glory. Coffee shop on the outside. Lobster hero on the inside.

🐚 Chatham Fish & Lobster: The Build-Your-Own Classic
📍 1291 Main St, Chatham, MA

Hot or cold? Small or stacked? You choose your own adventure here—but either way, you’re getting top-tier lobster tucked into a warm brioche. Part seafood market, part casual counter spot, this one’s built for purists who like their lobster roll just the way they want it.

🌊 HARWICH PORT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Sunset views, surprise hits, and rolls that sing with butter.

🌅 Brax Landing: The Sunset Stuffed Roll
📍 705 MA-28, Harwich Port, MA

This is your dinner-with-a-view roll. It arrives chilled, generously filled, and barely dressed—just enough to let the lobster shine. Toasted bun, breeze off the water, and maybe a seagull or two begging for a bite. The scene? Straight from a Cape Cod postcard.

🍕 George’s Pizza & Seafood: The Roll That Shouldn’t Be This Good
📍 564 Main St, Harwich Port, MA

Yes, it’s a pizza joint. But don’t let that fool you. This sleeper roll shows up warm, drenched in melted butter, and somehow punches above its weight. The kind of hidden gem that turns a quick lunch into a rave review. Locals know. Now you do too.

🍦 Sundae School: The Ice Cream Shop Roll (Yes, Really)
📍 606 Main St, Harwich Port, MA

Before the waffle cone, try the roll. Cold lobster, lightly dressed, and piled high on a soft bun. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes for one heck of a pre-sundae surprise. Unexpected? Absolutely. But by the last bite, you’ll be a believer.

🎶 The Port: The Herb-Butter Heavy Hitter
📍 541 MA-28, Harwich Port, MA

This one’s all chef swagger. Warm lobster meets garlic butter, lemon zest, and a touch of herb magic. The result? A plated roll that walks the line between backyard cookout and fine dining. It doesn’t just show up—it performs.

🐚 ORLEANS ORIGINALS

Classic favorites, roadside gems, and white-tablecloth wonders.

🚙 The Knack: The Drive-Up Favorite With the Golden Bun
📍 5 Route 6A, Orleans, MA

Pull up, order, and prepare to be floored. This roll is warm, buttery, and unapologetically packed. The grilled New England-style bun gives golden crunch, and the lobster? Local, fresh, and falling out the sides. You’ll be back before the week’s out.

🎣 Sir Cricket’s Fish & Chips: The Dive Classic
📍 38 Route 6A, Orleans, MA

No frills, no pretense—just chilled lobster, a soft roll, and a side of Cape attitude. Want to add fried clams and call it dinner? Go for it. Sir Cricket’s might not be fancy, but it delivers the kind of flavor that keeps locals loyal.

📸 Lobster Claw: The Roll That Hasn’t Changed Since ’85
📍 42 Cranberry Hwy, Orleans, MA

It’s the roll your parents remember—and thankfully, they haven’t messed with it. Soft bun, lightly mayo’d lobster meat, and just enough crunch to keep things interesting. Comfort food for locals, tradition for tourists.

🍷 Mahoney’s Atlantic Bar & Grill: The White Tablecloth Wonder
📍 28 Main St, Orleans, MA

A roll in its Sunday best. Delicate lobster, lightly dressed, arrives on a buttery brioche with house slaw and hand-cut fries. It’s elevated without being fussy—perfect for those nights when you want lobster with a side of candlelight.

🎉 Your Taste Buds Had Their Say. Now It’s Your Turn.

We’ve done the legwork (and the lip-smacking). You’ve done the drooling.
Now tell us: Who serves up the lobster roll you dream about all winter long?

👇
🗳️ VOTE NOW for the Lower Cape Lobster Roll Showdown Champion »
Cast your vote. Share it with your crew. Start some friendly beef over butter and mayo.

🧾 Haven’t tried them all yet? No problem. Make it your official summer bucket list.
📆 Voting closes August 12.
🏆 Winner announced next week—bragging rights included.

This isn’t just a roll. It’s a rivalry.
Make your pick. Make it count. 🦞

🕵️‍♂️ War, Waves & Wireless: Chatham’s Secret Weapon in WWII

The quiet Cape Cod station that helped sink Nazi U-boats

You’ve driven past the red-brick buildings on Orleans Road in North Chatham. Maybe you’ve even hiked the trails behind them or heard a faint Morse code echoing from the museum on a summer afternoon. But did you know those buildings once housed one of the most important listening posts in World War II?

📡 From Marconi’s Dreams to Military Secrets

In 1914, the Marconi–RCA Wireless Receiving Station opened just a few miles from downtown Chatham. Built by Guglielmo Marconi’s company, this station was one-half of a transatlantic radio link—paired with a massive transmitter across the Cape in Marion. Ships at sea, including transatlantic liners and fishing schooners, relied on this link to send telegrams home. Its call sign? WCC – the Cape Cod station that never slept.

But when the Second World War arrived, WCC’s role quietly changed.

By 1942, the station had become a classified Navy listening post, intercepting encrypted German U-boat messages from the icy North Atlantic. These transmissions, filled with coded coordinates and military movements, were relayed from Chatham to Washington, D.C.—used to crack Nazi naval codes and sink submarines.

Cape Cod radio operators—many of them young men and women from Chatham, Orleans, Harwich, and beyond—listened through static-filled nights for clicks and chirps that could save lives. It was hush-hush work. Even locals didn’t know that some of the war’s most critical intel flowed through their own backyard.

🧠 Crack the Code Today

Today, the buildings that once housed those top-secret operations are alive again at the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center. The museum showcases wartime radios, original logs, interactive exhibits—and yes, even an authentic Enigma machine, the same kind of cipher device used by German forces.

Visitors can:

  • Tap out real Morse code messages

  • Explore Cape Cod’s unexpected role in WWII espionage

  • Discover how WCC also handled storm alerts and search-and-rescue

🧭 Then & Now: Why It Matters

  • It’s local: Most operators came from right here in the Lower Cape.

  • It’s enduring: The call sign WCC is still visible on the original brick building today.

  • It’s real: This isn’t lore—it’s documented military history backed by records and oral histories.

📍 Visit:
Chatham Marconi Maritime Center
847 Orleans Rd, North Chatham, MA

🕰️ Seasonal Hours – Check the website for current times.

🎟️ Pro tip: Kids love the scavenger hunt. Adults? They’ll be floored by the wartime operator stories still echoing from these walls.

💧 “The Pond Looked Fine…”

Until the sign went up.

You know the one:
CYANOBACTERIA ALERT: NO SWIMMING. NO PETS.

One minute, you’re skipping stones with the kids. The next, you’re warning them to keep their feet out of the water. Maybe it was Sheep Pond. Maybe it was Long Pond. Maybe you’ve seen it more than once.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, what’s really going on with our ponds?—you’re not alone. And you’ll want to be in the room on Saturday, August 9.

🗓️ Brewster Ponds Coalition Annual Meeting

Saturday, August 9 | 8:30–11:00 AM
📍 Cape Cod Bible Alliance Church, 3600 Main Street, Brewster

This is more than a meeting—it’s a wake-up call wrapped in coffee, community, and clear action.

  • ☕ 8:30 AM – Coffee, bagels, registration

  • 🏅 9:00 AM – Quick recap + award presentations

  • 🧠 Then – A must-hear talk from one of Cape Cod’s leading pond scientists

🎤 Meet This Year’s Guest Speaker

Julie Hambrook Berkman, Ph.D.
Director, Pond & Cyanobacteria Monitoring Programs
Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC)

Julie works on the front lines of pond health across the Cape. She’ll break down:

  • What cyanobacteria is (and why it’s showing up more often)

  • What causes a bloom—and how dangerous it really is

  • What APCC’s testing shows about risk levels in Brewster

  • And what residents can do to protect our ponds now and long-term

There’s plenty of time for Q&A—so bring your curiosity, your pond stories, and your questions.

🎟️ RSVP Info

  • Free for BPC members

  • $10 suggested donation for non-members

  • 🔗 Register here

Sponsored by Agway of Cape Cod – thanks, neighbors!

If you live near a pond, swim in one, walk by one, or just love the idea that your grandkids still can—this event is for you.

Forward this to your neighbor. Invite your walking group. Bring your teen science nerd. Because the more we know, the better we can protect what makes Brewster home.

🌼 Brewster COA Spotlight: August 7–13

This week’s forecast? Movement, mingling, and maybe a little Mah Jongg.

We love how Thursdays in Brewster have their own rhythm — and August 7 is no exception. We start the day with the Walking Club at 9:00 AM — a gentle pace and friendly faces all the way. Then it’s on to Senior Dining at 11:30 AM, where the food is warm and the conversations warmer.

Stick around for the full afternoon lineup:
🎲 Bingo at 12:15 PM
💪 Keep Movin’! at 1:00 PM
🧘‍♀️ Chair Yoga at 2:30 PM
We’re not saying you have to do them all… but you totally could.

On Friday, August 8, we’re kicking off the day with Foot Care at 9:00 AM, and then at 1:00 PM, it’s time for Mah Jongg — whether you’re a seasoned tile-slinger or still learning, we’ve got a seat for you.

Monday, August 11 brings creative energy with Yes, You Can Draw! at 9:30 AM. It’s fun, relaxed, and yes — you really can draw. Then, switch from pencils to playing cards with Canasta at 1:00 PM.

Tuesday, August 12 is all about wellness:
🌬️ Qi Gong at 9:00 AM
🪑 Chair Yoga at 11:00 AM
❤️ Strong at Heart at 2:30 PM

And by Wednesday, August 13, you’ll know the drill: Walking Club, Meditation, Tai Chi, Senior Dining, Bingo, and a calming end with Chair Yoga. All are welcome — just bring your good shoes and your best self.

📞 Need help signing up or getting a ride? Call us at 508-896-2737. We’ve got you.

🌼 Chatham COA Spotlight: August 7–13

The porch light is always on, and your seat’s always waiting.

Thursday, August 7 is a pick-your-pace kind of day.
At 1:00 PM, you can stretch out your shoulders at Chair Yoga or stretch out your story at Busy Fingers. Whether it’s yarn or a good chat, both move at just the right speed.

Friday, August 8 is a quieter day — time to recharge, run errands, or simply sit with a good book and the windows open.

Monday, August 11 kicks things back into gear. If you’re part of Ryders Cove Respite, it begins at 9:30 AM — a calming, caring way to start the week. Need to run to the pharmacy or pick up groceries? We’ve got deliveries going out that morning. And Cribbage Masters meet up after lunch, if you’re feeling lucky.

📞 Curious about joining a group? Give us a ring at 508-945-5190. We’ll make it easy.

🌼 Harwich COA Spotlight: August 7–13

Come for the coffee, stay for the company.

Thursday, August 7 begins bright and early with the Walking Group at 8:00 AM — a chance to stretch those legs and greet the day. Later on, there’s Balance Boosters at 9:15 AM, perfect for staying steady and strong. At 1:00 PM, we keep things light with Low Impact Fitness with Jan — it’s fun, it’s friendly, and you’ll leave feeling better than when you came in.

Friday, August 8 at 1:00 PM, pull up a chair for Movie Day! We’re screening A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood — with Mr. Rogers, popcorn, and the kind of calm you can’t stream. Bring a friend. Or make one here.

Monday, August 11 gets you moving with Gentle Yoga at 10:00 AM, followed by the always fun Mah Jongg at 1:00 PM, and a little groove to end the day with Zumba Gold at 2:00 PM.

On Tuesday, August 12, we’ve got a full slate of fun:
🎶 Zumba with Jan at 10:00 AM
🃏 Hand & Foot card games at 12:30 PM
🧑‍🦯 Low Vision Support Group at 1:00 PM

Wednesday, August 13 closes the week with a mix of heart and humor — from our Walking Group and Qigong, to Bingo and the Writer’s Group at 1:00 PM. Whether you’re scribbling poetry or just journaling your thoughts, it’s a lovely space to reflect and share.

📞 Want in? Call us at 508-430-7550 — we’re happy to walk you through it.

🌼 Orleans COA Spotlight: August 7–13

Music, movement, movies — and maybe a little magic.

Thursday, August 7 opens with Morning Yoga at 9:00 AM — breathe deep, stretch long. Then at 1:00 PM, grab a front-row seat for The Lost King at Movie Matinee. It’s a true story with charm and surprise — and yes, we’ll have the popcorn ready.

Friday, August 8 is made for joy. At 10:00 AM, NIA blends dance, movement, and mindfulness. And from 1:30 to 4:00 PM, Art Afternoons are back. Bring your project, your watercolors, or just your curiosity. No need to sign up — just show up and make something lovely.

Monday, August 11 starts soft with Gentle Yoga at 9:00 AM, followed by Spanish class at 10:30 AM, and then the Low Vision Group at 1:00 PM. It’s a good day to stretch, learn, and connect.

On Tuesday, August 12, we’re dancing again with Dance Fit at 2:00 PM, and for those who like their workouts after dinner, Circuit Strength begins at 6:30 PM — a welcoming class with weights, bands, and smiles all around.

Wednesday, August 13 at 2:00 PM, we’re diving into a classic. Ever wondered what Moby-Dick is really about? Join us for Moby-Dick, Explained — a down-to-earth lecture for anyone who’s read it, avoided it, or just wants to know why that whale matters.

📞 Call 508-255-6333 to sign up, ask a question, or just say hello.

🎨 This Week on the Lower Cape: Something's Always Happening

Chatham’s hanging art on Main Street. Harwich has circus science for the kids. Orleans? Throwing a lighthouse party that runs till 11.

Then comes the weekend: tomato tastings, pirate plays, craft fairs, and the Brew Run (good luck finding parking at The Woodshed).

Sunday kicks off Celebrating the Arts all over Chatham, and by midweek we’re talking whale history, tick safety, and painting with plants.

Plenty to do. No pressure to do it all.👇

Thursday, August 07

Friday, August 08

Saturday, August 09

Sunday, August 10

  • 🌮 Tunes and Tacos
    11:00 AM–2:00 PM • Christ Church Episcopal, Harwich
    A summer trifecta: live music, fresh tacos, and local community vibes.

  • 🎨 Celebrating the Arts in Chatham (Opening Day)
    All day • Various Locations, Chatham
    This week-long celebration kicks off today—exhibits, pop-ups, and creative energy across town.

  • 🐉 The Hobbit (Sunday Matinee)
    4:00 PM–5:00 PM • Cape Cod Theatre Company, Harwich
    An hour-long fantasy journey packed with adventure—perfect for the whole family.

  • 🧚 Peter Pan: Sunday Evening Show
    7:00 PM–8:30 PM • Cape Cod Theatre Company, Harwich
    Fly off to Neverland in this magical outdoor family production.

  • 🎭 Sunday in the Park with George
    7:30 PM–9:00 PM • Cape Rep Theatre, Brewster
    Sondheim’s vision, outdoors under the stars—an unforgettable end to your weekend.

Monday, August 11

  • 🔭 Amazing Astronomy: Kids Course
    9:00 AM–12:00 PM • Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, Chatham
    A hands-on space science class for kids—planets, stars, and a whole lot of "wow."

  • 🦅 Bird Walk: Morris Island with Fi Lowry
    8:00 AM–10:00 AM • Fred’s Shed, Monomoy Refuge, Chatham
    Early risers spot seabirds and shorebirds with local expert Fi Lowry—binoculars encouraged!

  • 🦈 Shark Facts with the AWSC
    2:30 PM–3:30 PM • Brooks Free Library, Harwich
    The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy brings jaw-dropping shark science to shore.

  • 🎨 Jack Garver: At Home and On the Road
    Time TBD • Creative Arts Center, Chatham
    From Cape scenes to roadside sketches, Garver’s work captures motion and memory.

  • 🧘‍♀️ Guided Labyrinth Walk
    5:00 PM–6:00 PM • Chase Park, Chatham
    Slow down and reflect in this peaceful outdoor walking meditation.

  • 🎱 Pool Tournament at The Squire
    7:00 PM • The Squire, Chatham
    A little friendly competition, a cold drink, and plenty of cue-side banter.

Tuesday, August 12

  • 🦅 Red River Beach Birding Walk
    7:30 AM–9:00 AM • Red River Beach, Harwich
    Start your day with a serene shoreline stroll and keep your eyes out for ospreys, plovers, and more.

  • 🔭 Amazing Astronomy: Kids Course
    9:00 AM–12:00 PM • Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, Chatham
    Explore the wonders of space science in this hands-on morning camp for curious kids.

  • 🦈 Shark STEM Day: Shark Biology (Ages 7–10)
    9:00 AM • Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, North Chatham
    Future marine biologists get up close with shark science—fin facts, toothy tales, and hands-on activities.

  • 📘 Book Discussion: The Berry Pickers
    3:00 PM • Snow Library, Orleans
    A moving novel gets the spotlight—join your neighbors for heartfelt conversation and fresh insights.

  • 🍺 Offshore Ale on the LAWN!
    4:30 PM–7:00 PM • The Barley Neck, Orleans
    Live music, lawn games, and local brews—bring a chair or a blanket and kick back.

  • 🎨 Meet the Artist at Kate Gould Park
    5:00 PM–6:00 PM • Kate Gould Park, Chatham
    A casual chat with one of Chatham’s featured artists—part of the week-long “Celebrating the Arts” series.

  • 🥗 Eating for Health with Dr. Kumara Sidhartha
    5:30 PM–6:30 PM • Brewster Ladies’ Library, Brewster
    Learn how food can be medicine—practical nutrition tips from a physician who walks the walk.

  • 🎭 Sunday in the Park with George
    7:30 PM–9:00 PM • Cape Rep Theatre, Brewster
    Art, obsession, and color under the stars—Sondheim’s masterpiece continues to dazzle.

Wednesday, August 13

  • 🪐 Amazing Astronomy: Kids Course
    9:00 AM–12:00 PM • Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, Chatham
    Young stargazers dive into constellations, planets, and deep space in this hands-on kids course.

  • 🕷️ Tick Talk Pop-Up Education
    9:00 AM–12:00 PM • Brewster Ladies’ Library, Brewster
    Stop by anytime to learn how to stay safe from ticks while enjoying the Cape outdoors.

  • 🐦 Bird Walk & Talk
    9:30 AM–11:00 AM • Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Brewster
    Take a nature walk and learn to ID local birds with CCMNH naturalists.

  • 🚒 Firefighter Storytime!
    10:30 AM–11:00 AM • Brewster Ladies’ Library, Brewster
    Meet real firefighters and hear stories about courage, teamwork, and fire trucks!

  • 🎨 Organic Painting Outdoors
    11:00 AM–12:30 PM • Brewster Ladies’ Library, Brewster
    Paint with natural pigments in this eco-art session—relaxing, messy, and fun.

  • 🔦 Chatham Lighthouse Tours
    1:00 PM • Chatham Light, Chatham
    Climb the tower, learn the lore—Cape Cod's historic beacon up close.

  • 🌱 Ecosystem Explorers
    1:30 PM–3:00 PM • Harwich Conservation Trust (exact preserve TBD)
    Kids head into the wild to discover what makes Cape Cod’s ecosystems tick.

  • 🐋 Whaling in New England Talk
    2:30 PM–3:30 PM • Harwich Community Center, Harwich
    Explore the deep history of whaling and its impact on Cape Cod culture and economy.

  • 🦉 Amazing Animal Ambassadors
    3:00 PM • Snow Library, Orleans
    Live animal meet-and-greet with rescued creatures and their incredible stories.

  • 🎨 Enduring Inspiration Closing Reception
    5:00 PM–7:00 PM • Addison Art Gallery, Orleans
    Celebrate the final night of this vibrant summer exhibit with art, community, and conversation.

  • 📚 Author Talk: Elspeth Hay
    6:00 PM • Snow Library, Orleans
    The local writer discusses food, place, and storytelling rooted in Cape Cod soil.

  • 🎭 The Hobbit
    7:00 PM–8:00 PM • Cape Cod Theatre Company, Harwich
    Bilbo’s journey continues—bite-sized Tolkien magic for families and fans.

  • 🎭 Sunday in the Park with George
    7:30 PM • Cape Rep’s Indoor Theater, Orleans
    Sondheim’s brushstroke of genius—experience art come to life.

🎶 This Week on the Lower Cape: Let the Music Chase the Sun

August 7 – August 13


From breezy fiddle tunes to dance-all-night DJ sets, this week is bursting with rhythm in every corner of the Lower Cape.

Chatham’s Squire kicks things off Thursday with The JOHNS and closes the weekend with a late-night Pro Jam. Over in Harwich, CranFest in the Courtyard brings the folk heat with GoldenOak and The Folk Collective, while Cape Cod Jazz & Arts Festival at Wequassett serves up saxophone magic with Grace Kelly and The Cape Connection.

Want organ? Brewster’s got it. Dreamy duos? Orleans delivers. Whether you're into beach jams, courtyard vibes, or pub grooves, there’s a seat—and a song—for you.

So grab a blanket, charge your phone, and text your group chat. The Lower Cape soundtrack is live.👇

Thursday, August 07

Friday, August 08

Saturday, August 09

Sunday, August 10

Monday, August 11

Tuesday, August 12

Wednesday, August 13

🌀 Cape Mood | Aug 7–13

Because here, the weather’s more than a forecast — it’s a full-blown personality.

☀️ Thu, Aug 7 – 75° / 55° – Blue-Sky Bragging Rights

☀️ Light breeze from the east | 💧Humidity 54%
Feels like that magical July day we didn’t get last month. Everyone’s in a better mood — even the guy at the gas station on Route 28 smiled today. It’s the kind of clear that makes you believe your old Ray-Bans are still in the glove box. (They’re not.)
🎣 Afternoon stroll at Bank Street Beach? You’ll swear you’re in a postcard.

🦞 Fri, Aug 8 – 76° / 59° – Golden Hour Everything

🌞 Generally sunny | 🍃 Breezy from the southeast
Harwich is vibing. Folks are back on the bike trail, kids are flipping off the Saquatucket dock, and someone in your neighborhood definitely just said, “Now this is Cape weather.”
🌅 Pro tip: Park at Red River by 6:30 PM and walk the shoreline. Sunset’s gonna put on a real show.

🏖️ Sat, Aug 9 – 75° / 60° – Bumper-to-Bumper, but Worth It

🌤️ Full sunshine | 🌬️ Light northeast wind
It’s gonna be one of those Saturdays — you’ll wait 20 minutes at Dr. Cavity’s light, and someone will definitely honk while you parallel park near Ember.
But once your toes hit the sand, it’s all forgiven.
🍦Get in line early at Sundae School. They’re already running low on peppermint stick by sundown.

🚲 Sun, Aug 10 – 76° / 65° – Cape Classic Sunday

🌞 Mostly sunny | 💨 Breeze from the south
Church bells in the distance. Kids dragging boogie boards. That unmistakable smell of Coppertone and fried scallops near Brax Landing.
It’s the kind of day you tell your cousins about when they ask why you still live here.
🪁 Evening picnic at Long Pond? Bring a kite, or just borrow one from the kid who got tired after 10 minutes.

🌊 Mon, Aug 11 – 78° / 67° – Grill Smoke & Porch Talk

🌤️ Mostly sunny | 🌀 Winds from the SSW
Morning’s soft. By lunch, it’s flip-flop melting on the pavement. But no one minds. It’s the kind of heat that makes everyone talk about how hot it used to get in ’03.
🪑 If you're on Oak Street and someone offers you lemonade from the porch — say yes. It’s probably fresh. Possibly spiked.

🔥 Tue, Aug 12 – 80° / 68° – Toasty with a Chance of “Nope”

☀️ Clear skies | 💨 Winds picking up from the SW
We’ve hit the 80s, folks. The hot part of summer arrived late but brought snacks.
Sweat collects behind your knees. Flip-flops slap loud. Ice clinks more dramatically. You’ll pretend to grill dinner but really just eat watermelon in front of the fan.
🏄 Monomoy surf is tempting, but the real win? AC and a tomato sandwich.

🥵 Wed, Aug 13 – 81° / 70° – Cloudless and Clammy

🌞 Mostly sunny | 🌬️ Breezy SW winds
This is your reminder to refill the propane before the cookout. Everything feels like it needs a cold rinse — you, the dog, the tomatoes, even your Wi-Fi.
Evening breeze is your reward for making it through the sweat-fest.
🎧 Take a book to the cranberry bog trails at dusk. You’ll get 30 minutes of magic (before the mosquitoes file in like it’s a parade).

📍 Cape Lowdown for Locals

🅿️ Beach Lots
Ridgevale and Red River will fill by 9:15 AM. You know the shortcut through Doane Road. Use it.

🌿 Best Trail Days
Thurs & Fri = low bug count, high breeze. Bell’s Neck is giving Maine this week.

💐 Hydrangea Watch
Cape Cod Lavender Farm side garden is putting on a second act. Pink Diamond and Limelight still strutting.

☁️ Plan B Weather?
Tuesday and Wednesday night might get sticky indoors. Catch a show at the Chatham Orpheum, or finally check out the new pottery shop behind Hot Stove.

🌅 Sunset MVPs
🌄 Fort Hill = drama.
🌊 Red River = romance.
🪑 Skaket = family photo with that perfect backlight. Don’t forget the bug spray.

🎯 That’s it for this week, neighbor.

From what’s growing under our floorboards to what’s piled high on a buttered bun, it’s all part of the strange, sandy, unforgettable rhythm of Cape life.

Thanks for letting me be a small part of your week.
I’ll be here — cheering on your favorite lobster roll, listening for the scratch under the vent, and rooting for whatever makes this place feel like home.

See you next Thursday.

— Arthur
🏡 Helping Cape folks find the right place—no spider webs included
Arthur Radtke
REALTOR®, eXp Realty
MA License# 9582725

P.S. Need help finding a place that fits your real Cape life (with or without house guests)? You know where to find me.

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