HYANNIS, MA- If you’ve ever wondered what the biggest weekend of the year is on Nantucket, hands down there’s one that takes the cake: the weekend of Figawi.
If you’ve never heard of the Figawi boat race that runs annually from Hyannis to Nantucket, you probably haven’t heard about the tent parties (put me down for 2 bracelets please), how you have to book lodging WAY in advance (I’ve literally almost slept in someone’s basement when we couldn’t find anything), or how critical it is to choose the proper footwear (stilettos are a NO GO for those cobblestones…wear the flip flops!).
But if you know about Figawi…oh, you KNOW and you’re planning well ahead of time before Memorial Day weekend hits. Why is it so popular? Not only has the Figawi boat race been around for decades, it’s also one that’s known to be attended every year by athletes, celebrities, and prominent figures from all over the country. Here in New England, that’s meant the Kennedys, Bill Belichick and of course Patriots fan favorite Rob Gronkowski.
Preceding the Figawi Race each year is the Figawi Charity Ball, and this year’s theme of Fire & Ice was one that brought anyone who’s anyone to the Hyannis Resort & Conference Center. From ice sculptures to fresh oysters, live giveaways to live music, the event went all out for those opening up their pockets to benefit local Cape & Islands charities. Those supported by the big event range from supporting children’s music programs on the Cape & Islands to Nantucket Police & local health organizations, yet they all carry the same theme: The Figawi Board of Directors carefully select charities that are commonly overlooked by larger foundations to help bring life back to the communities on which their traditions were built. Started in 1986, the annual ball follows the organization’s theme of “Serious Fun” (yes, that’s literally their slogan and I’ve yet to find one that would fit them better!).
Want to go inside the ball? Here, take a look!:
The BosBabes 