About Scituate's Scituate Harbor

The beginning of August is a special time here in Scituate. Every year our seaside town celebrates it's rich heritage. This event, like our St. Patrick's Day Parade, seems to be getting larger every year.

Incorporated in 1636, our town has a long history that is kept alive by our active Historical Society. The "Little Red Schoolhouse" is a treasure of documents and pictures dating back over 300 years (the building is currently undergoing renovations and closed until September). Many stories from the "Men of Kent", to the Native Americans who first used the name "Satuit" (meaning - damn that brook is cold!), to the brave Bates sisters who stopped a British invasion by creating an "army of two". The volunteers are very knowledgeable and are happy to share lots of fun and interesting facts. It is during these days every summer that I truly appreciate how lucky Joe and I were to have "discovered" Scituate 15 years ago...

The festivities kick off this year from August 7-9. These three days are filled with many events - most happening in Scituate Harbor. The Scituate Chamber of Commerce has a detailed agenda The music is a huge attraction. A stage is placed in the middle of Front Street and visitors enjoy listening and dancing. There are many different bands scheduled this year. The type of music is diverse and is enjoyed by both young and old. One group scheduled to appear this year is Foghat (remember them?)!

The carnival was added to the Cole Parkway (behind Front St.) a few years ago and is a favorite with the little ones. This carnival is geered toward the very young - not for your teenager.... Nothing like the K of C carnival that was here just a few weeks ago.

I remember several years ago they kicked off the celebration with the release of the butterflies. Sadly, I don't see it on the agenda anymore - it was fascinating to watch and hope that one would land on your outstretched finger....

Of course, being a seaside community, there are several nautical events taking place such as boat races, oyster shucking contest, etc... but a personal favorite is the parade of boats. I highly recommend getting an outside table for lunch at T.K.'s or the Mill Wharf and watch and wave!

The luminaria on Friday evening is a sight best seen from the water, but another great spot would be from the lighthouse. I've always wondered if the candles can be seen from the planes landing/taking off at Logan Airport....

What I love about shopping at the marketplace is the local vendors. My husband and I have found many "Scituate" treasures here that adorn our home. We feel like tourists - in our own backyard!

Many of our historical sites will be open to the public. I love the new signs recently installed at several locations around town. The lighthouse tour is always the most popular. We had a changeover in keepers last summer. A schoolteacher, Bob Gallagher, and his family moved into the cottage. He keeps a blog, a fascinating look at the daily life of a light keeper I also recommend the Lawson Tower tour. This structure very unique and has a very interesting story as to why it was built.

So come and enjoy our beautiful town! It's a wonderful family outing with many sights to see and activities to enjoy. There will be a shuttle service from the Greenbush commuter rail station that will take you directly to the Harbor - highly recommended since parking is extremely limited.

I am hopeful that the recent arrival of summer weather (finally!) will prevail for these three days.

I am looking forward to seeing everyone!