Happy Autumn
As the summer winds down and the crisp autumn air settles over Cape Cod, things are just heating up at the Chatham Conservation Foundation (CCF). October is packed with opportunities to connect with nature, celebrate our historic spaces, and get involved with the local community.
Whether you're a lifelong member, new to the Foundation, or simply looking to enjoy the best of autumn in Chatham, we have something for you. Mark your calendars for these fantastic October events!
CCF Book Club Resumes at the Mayo House
When: Monday, October 5, 2026, at 4:00 PM
Where: Historic Mayo House (540 Main St, Chatham, MA)
Admission: Free, no registration required.
Our monthly Book Club is back for the fall season! Join fellow nature enthusiasts on the first Monday of every month as we dive into engaging books focused on nature, wildlife, and the environment. It is the perfect cozy afternoon activity to share ideas and connect with your community inside the beautiful, historic Mayo House.
New Members Guided Walk: Frost Fish Creek Trail
When: Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Meeting at Monomoy Regional Middle School (425 Crowell Rd, Chatham, MA)
Admission: Free (Registration required)
Are you new to CCF or looking to get more involved? Join our Executive Director, Lauren Arcomano, for a welcoming, guided autumn stroll along the gorgeous Frost Fish Creek Trail. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore one of our most popular protected open spaces, catch glimpses of the reverting wetlands, and meet fellow conservation-minded neighbors.
October Birding Walk on Morris Island
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge (30 Wikis Way, Chatham, MA)
Admission: Registration fee applies (benefits the Friends of Monomoy)
Co-sponsored by CCF and the Friends of Monomoy, this morning birding walk is an autumn must-do. Led by expert ornithologist Fi Lowry, we will head out onto Morris Island in search of late shorebird migrants, early arriving ducks and loons, and magnificent hunting raptors like Northern Harriers and Peregrine Falcons. Grab your binoculars and help support local wildlife conservation!
National Wildlife Refuge Week: Paint & Learn
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Where: Monomoy NWR Visitor Center
Admission: Free (Open to all ages)
Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week with a little creativity! Bring the whole family to paint wildlife cutouts that will be proudly displayed at the Monomoy NWR Visitor Center. It’s a wonderful, hands-on way for all ages to learn about local species while contributing to our community's public art.
Chatham Oktoberfest & Mayo House Open Tours
When: Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Kate Gould Park, Town Hall Parking Lot, & Downtown Chatham
Admission: Free
Wrap up your October festival season with the Chatham Chamber of Commerce annual Oktoberfest! As you enjoy the family-friendly festivities, food, and local vendors downtown, be sure to stop by the historic Mayo House. CCF will be opening the doors for public tours, giving you a chance to step back into 1800s Chatham history right in the middle of the autumn fun.
Get Involved: Space for our guided trail and birding walks is limited! Head over to the CCF Events Page to reserve your spots today. We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you!
