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Although Chatham is well-known for its ties to the fishing industry and for its great coastline, the town's parks are magnificent, too. There is something for everyone, from birdwatchers to festival-goers to local artists.
Chatham is on one of the national flyways for migrating birds and a truly amazing number of species may be seen here. Because of our relatively mild climate in comparison to other places at this latitude, many birds…just like people…like to stay here year round now! During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the area was not quite as hospitable to the birds as commercial market gunners were continually shooting them both for gourmet food and for their feathers to decorate ladies’ hats. As the flocks decimated, fortunately laws were passed to protect the birds. Take a short boat trip in one of the local charter boats and you will arrive at the Sanctuary. For more information on guided tours, call the Audubon Society's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary…508-349-2615. There are over 3000 acres of protected land on North and South Beaches and over 285 species of birds have been seen…a bird lover’s Nirvana!
When one thinks of a picture of Chatham…the choice seems to be either the lighthouse or the gazebo at Kate Gould Park on a Friday summer night with the Chatham Band playing to over 5000 happy people!
"As many as six thousand people attend these free concerts"
As many as six thousand people attend these free concerts, and it will be one of the highlights of your summer in Chatham. There will be musical numbers by the band, folk dances for the children, dance numbers for grownups and community singing for everyone. Members of the colorfully uniformed forty-piece band live in Chatham and the surrounding towns. Each Monday evening during the winter the band meets for rehearsal. Funds for the maintenance of the band are voted at town meeting. The band members are not paid and the concerts are their contribution to the summer life of Chatham. Do not miss these concerts. They're great fun! Many people stake out their territory early in the day with towels, blankets and beach chairs. Various churches offer dining al fresco with hotdogs, hamburgers and lobster rolls before the concert. Balloons are sold by the school and the ambiance makes for a fun evening for the entire family, especially as all are encouraged to join in and sing and dance! The park is right in the middle of town near the Wayside Inn.
Located on Cross Street, this park is the home to our Festival of the Arts, a juried multimedia show in August. Added attractions are the historic Grist Mill as well as a picnic area and bowling green…and restrooms.
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