December 2017

The countdown is on to ring in the New Year with First Night Chatham. The annual event is packed with family fun, from the annual town photo at noon to the traditional Countdown Cod drop at the strike of midnight.

With non-stop fun and entertainment, this year’s event promises two fireworks displays, the return of the popular Noise Parade and at least 70 planned performers, entertaining the crowds at nearly two-dozen different venues in Chatham.

Now in its 26th year, a full lineup of performers and musical acts are on tap to lead residents and visitors into the New Year. From a jazz quartet to the restored Diamond Jubilee Organ, a poetry reading to Chinese folk art dancing, First Night Chatham promises to be bigger and better this year.

Other acts on the

One of the most inspirational locations of renowned artist Edward Hopper’s career, the prominent painter cherished the Outer Cape. The deep appreciation can be traced to the early 1930s when Hopper and his wife Josephine first rented a cottage in South Truro, a decision that led to the Hoppers returning to the area each summer from then on out.

The two artists commonly took day trips to other nearby areas, providing the inspiration Edward Hopper needed for his next piece of artwork. Mostly landscapes at this point in his life, his work turned to the sea and grass, lighthouses, farmhouses and sailboats.

One of his most famous depictions is ‘Corn Hill’, a 1930-era oil painting. There’s also ‘Highland Light, North Truro’, which shows a lighthouse that has

Serving up plenty of outdoor fun and recreation for those of all ages, there are several Chatham area beaches you simply don’t want to miss. Here are just a few of our favorite beaches, popular for a variety of reasons.

Cockle Cove Beach

Cockle Cove Beach, in particular, is known for its long stretch of sand and small waves. The beach is popular for windsurfing and boating, plus there’s lots of room to simply spread out and enjoy the great views.

Found in South Chatham, the warm weather makes it ideal for windsurfing and for swimming. The soft sand is also great for kids, plus the waves are calm. Kayakers also consider Cockle Cove Beach a favorite, plus there are lifeguards on duty at the saltwater beach.

Hardings Beach

A perfect location for taking up a

A landmark of Truro, tiny Pamet Harbor has long served boaters in the Cape Cod area. The harbor makes it simple to easily reach other spots such as Wellfleet and Provincetown, as well.

Found at the Pamet River for which it gains its name, you will find plentiful parking and a great launch ramp that easily helps boaters access Cape Cod Bay. While popular these days, the harbor itself actually dates back centuries.

Around the late 1700s, Pamet Harbor was commonly the site of fishing and shipbuilding. Following the Civil War and the decline of shipbuilding in the area, though, the site sat mostly deserted.

Over the years, crews focused on dredging the harbor, with the last major dredging project about a decade ago. These days, the harbor is commonly used for

Serving primarily as a quiet place to reflect and clear your thoughts, the Chatham Labyrinth also, for some, serves as a carefully designed spiritual place. No matter your reason for visiting, though, the labyrinth is sure to provide an interesting backdrop.

Gifted by local churches as part of a 300th anniversary celebration a few years back, the town labyrinth is a replica of one found in a French cathedral, designed from cut and sealed pavers. Completely in proportion, the design is said to help with the creation of harmony.

With a total of 11 circuits, the path of the labyrinth winds 11 times around until you reach its center. Laid out straight, the path would measure about one-third of a mile and 16-inches wide.

It’s hoped those who embark on the