HISTORY:

About 32 years ago, four sailors started out from Baxters Boathouse in Hyannis to race their sailboats to Nantucket. That race would be the first of the Figawi Race Weekends, and the beginning of what has become a Cape Cod tradition with a major fund-raising component . . . continue reading.

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HOW TO ENJOY FIGAWI RACES (pre-ball!):

What to Wear:

When it comes to attire, you never know what you're going to get as far as the weather goes, dress in layers, starting with your swimsuit and ending with a sweatsuit.

If you don't want to stand out in the crowd, definitely be sure to dress in nautical-themed attire.

Where to Watch:

If you don't mind crowds, head to Brant Point to see the boats finishing the Figawi race from Hyannis on Saturday afternoon. Figawi weekend brings a unique crowd to Nantucket. Sailors, day trippers, young and old, all celebrating Memorial Day weekend.

Where to Go for After-Hours:

For after-hours if you want to go truly "local" head to the Chicken Box to check out the band "Maxxtone," a Figawi regular. It's a four-piece Pop-Rock band from the Springfield, MA area. Rain or shine fun is had by all!

If you want a more upscale experience, Nantucket's dining scene is sure to delight your discerning tastes, but make your reservations in advance.

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FIGAWI CHARITIES & THE FIGAWI BALL:

In 1987 the Figawi organizers decided they wanted to create a means of giving back to their home communities and what better way than to develop a charity ball, and over the last twenty years the Figawi Charity Ball has become the largest single night of fund-raising for Nantucket's local charities.

The Figawi Ball is considered to be the premier social event of the season, so prepare to dress to the nines and hob-knob with 1,200 zealous and diverse individuals 

Between ticket sales, generous sponsors and donors, and proceeds from treasure-filled raffles and winning bids at the silent auction, Figawi Charities Inc. generates nearly $200,000 each year and has provided over $2.2 million in support to local organizations (Figawi Charities - List of Charities).

Step 1: Buy your ticket

Step 2: Consider donating a Raffle or Auction item

Step 3: Start shopping for your ballgown attire!

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RACE HEADQUARTERS (On-Island - Off-Island):

Wherever you're planning on watching the race (from either side) or especially if you're a lucky participant, you'll want familiarize yourself with the Hyannis Yacht Club, 490 Ocean Street.

Hyannis is the main headquarters on the mainland and Veronica's Cottage on Swains Wharf is the main headquarters on Nantucket.
 

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RACE RULES:

Yes, there are rules! Here is the full list of official Dos and Donts: www.figawi.com/page/race/notice_of_race
 

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HAVE BOAT, NEED CREW?:

Here's the most up-to-date list of available crew: www.figawi.com/page/race/crew_lists