🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, September 11, 2026

• 🌽 Morning Glory Farm Corn Shuck n Shimmy End-of-Summer Celebration at Morning Glory Farm, 5-8p / More Info
  Live music, grilled corn, farm-fresh food and a corn-shucking competition mark the transition from summer to fall.

• ✡️ Rosh Hashanah Service at The Tabernacle, 5:30p / More Info
  Gather for an evening Rosh Hashanah service; advance registration.

• 🏈 MV Football v Mashpee — Home Opener! at MVRHS, 6p / More Info / Free, donations welcome

• 🎶 Meredith Sheldon “Once We Were Dust” Record Release Show at Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, 7p / More Info / $35

Saturday September 12, 2026

• 🏃 Run for Hope 5K at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, 8a-12p / More Info / $35
  Run or walk this community 5K benefiting social and humanitarian projects supported by the Millers Foundation.

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, 9a-2p / More Info / Last of the Season

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market @ Agricultural Hall, West Tisbury, 9a-12p / More Info

• ✡️ Rosh Hashanah Service at The Tabernacle, 9:30a/10a / More Info

• 🐐 Barnyard Buddies at The FARM Institute, 9:30-10:30a / More Info / $25 per pair
  Young children and their caregivers can meet farm animals, collect eggs, feed goats and help care for the Friendship Garden.

• 📚 Vineyard Vanguards with Tom Dresser at Oak Bluffs Public Library, 11:30a-12:30p / More Info
  Author Tom Dresser discusses the Vineyarders whose lives and contributions helped shape the Island’s history and culture.

• 🪶 Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) Powwow 2026 at Aquinnah Circle, (Sun too) / More Info / $10 adults per day; $5 ages 5-17, elders & veterans per day
  Celebrate Wampanoag culture and community through traditional song, dance, drumming, food, storytelling and shared traditions.

• 🕯️ Children’s Memorial Ceremony of Remembrance at Edgartown Lighthouse, 1p / More Info
  The annual ceremony gathers families and community members at the lighthouse to remember children whose names are part of the memorial.

• 💜 Recovery Day at The Red House Peer Recovery Support Center, 2-6p / More Info / Free
  Join The Red House for a community celebration recognizing Recovery Month and the strength of recovery.

Sunday September 13, 2026

• 🎣 MV Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby Begins, daily weigh-ins 8-10a & 7-9p / More Info
  The legendary annual fishing competition brings anglers together for great fishing, Island tradition and scholarship fundraising.

• ✡️ Rosh Hashanah Service & Holiday Lunch at Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center, 9:30a / More Info

• 🍔 Burgers & Bubbles at Daniel Fisher House, 2-4p / More Info / $162
  Sample burgers from competing Island chefs alongside Champagne, beer and local oysters while voting for the People’s Choice winner.

• 📷 New Photographs — Ray Ewing at The Workshop Gallery, 3-9p / More Info /
  See a presentation of new photographic work by Workshop Gallery member and MV photographer Ray Ewing.

• 🏺 Potter’s Bowl at Featherstone Center for the Arts, 4p / More Info
  Choose a handmade bowl created by local potters and enjoy soup from Island restaurants and caterers at this annual fundraiser.

• 🎬 MV International Film Festival Closing Night: The Siege of Paradise + Closing Night Party at MV Film Center & The Wave MV, 4:30p / More Info /
  The festival closes with the Italian documentary The Siege of Paradise, followed at 6:15p by food, drinks, live music and dancing at The Wave MV.

Read more

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

We’re on the other end of shoulder season now! Here’s the trip itinerary I shared earlier this year if you’re planning a group trip for September/October:

Speaking of quieter season activities, reviving this hiking guide I wrote this time last year:

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, September 4, 2026

• 🎨 Annual Vineyard Artisans Labor Day Festival @ Agricultural Hall, West Tisbury, Fri 4:30-6:30p; Sat-Sun 10a-4p / More Info
  The Island’s largest art show features only Island artists, with furniture, clothing, ceramics, jewelry, fine art, artist demonstrations, and local music.

• 🎷 MV Jazz and Blues Summerfest @ Union Chapel & Strand Theatre, Oak Bluffs, Fri 6-9p; Sat 6-9p; Sun 5-9p / More Info / $50 and up
  Friday features Endea Owens and Dominique Smith at Union Chapel; Saturday brings The Huntertones and Uptown Royalty NYC to Union Chapel. Sunday’s finale moves to the Strand Theatre with The String Queens, Sammulous, and Affiniti NYC.

• 🎨 First Friday Vineyard Haven @ downtown Vineyard Haven & Owen Park, 10a-11p / More Info / Free
  A full day of art, music, food, shopping, and community events spans downtown.

  • 10a-2p: Daytime Art Market at Beach St. Extension, plus an Art Hang at Althea Designs.

  • 12-9p: Live music throughout downtown and Owen Park featuring Beach Plum Jam, Tobey Sol LaRoche, Sparkestra, The Lunarchs, David Mintz, The Roundabouts, and JakeBuddy Band.

  • 5p-dusk: Food trucks, local artists, vendors, nonprofits, and a free art activity at Owen Park.

  • 9-11p: Silent DJ Party at Owen Park Beach with PathwaysARTS.

• 🎣 Family Fishing — OB Fishing Pier @ Oak Bluffs Fishing Pier, 9:30-11:30a / More Info

• 🫧 Bubbles and Beyond: Outdoor Sensory Play @ Edgartown Public Library, 10:30a-12:30p / More Info

• 🦞 Grace Church Lobster Roll Fundraiser @ Grace Episcopal Church, 3-6p / More Info / Last Chance!

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series — Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish @ MVCMA Tabernacle, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

Saturday, September 5, 2026

• 🎣 MVSA Used Tackle Sale @ MVRHS Parking Lot, Oak Bluffs, 8a-1p / More Info
  Shop used shore and boating gear including rods, reels, lures, tackle, life jackets, kayaks, canoes, and more. Proceeds benefit MVRHS scholarships and MV veterans; cash, Island checks, and Venmo are accepted.

• 🏃 Foot It for Felix 5K @ Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown, 8:45-11a / More Info / $32.80; Kids’ Fun Run free
  The Kids’ Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:45a, followed by the 5K at 9a along Felix Neck’s pine-needle trails and pond views. 5K registration closes Sept. 4 at 12:01p; Kids’ Fun Run registration closes Sept. 3 at 12:01p.

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market @ Agricultural Hall, West Tisbury, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market @ Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info /

• 🐐 Goat Yoga MV @ Native Earth Teaching Farm, Chilmark, 11a-12p / More Info / $30

• 🪁 Martha’s Vineyard Wind Festival @ Waban/Alley Park, Oak Bluffs, 11a-dusk / More Info / Free
  Kite-making runs from 11a-1p, followed by youth and adult flying competitions, prizes, and community kite flying through dusk. The day also includes frisbee games, food, DJ music, bubbles, and other activities; rain date is Sunday, Sept. 6.

• 🎶 Live Music: Chris Knott & Mixt @ West Tisbury Public Library, 2:30-4p / More Info / Free

Sunday, September 6, 2026

• 🏃 The Inkwell Mile Community Run @ Nomans, 15 Island Inn Road, Oak Bluffs, meet 8a; run/walk 8:30a / More Info / Free
  More Than A Mile presents a community run and walk, with participants meeting at Nomans at 8a before moving at 8:30a. Registration is available online.

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market @ Washington Park, Oak Bluffs, 10a-2p

• 🥁 Weekly Museum Open House and Family Samba @ Milokan Cultural Center and Drum Museum, Chilmark, 3-6p / More Info / $15 individual

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert @ Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, 5:30-7:30p / Free

Monday, September 7, 2026

• Labor Day

• Brazilian Independence Day

• 🌱 Beetlebung Farm Tour @ Beetlebung Farm, Chilmark, 4-4:30p / More Info / $5

• 🌿 Garden Tasting Tour @ The Farm Institute, 5-6:30p / More Info

Read more

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

The people are asking for it! The first batch of 2027 dates are here. I did some historical research to gather a few predicted dates, plus some confirmed/reported 2027 dates:

But if you’re still here, don’t worry, the 2026 dates are kept up-to-date both here (updated occasionally) and updated weekly behind the paywall:

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, August 28, 2026

• 🏃 Obstacle Course @ Oak Bluffs Public Library Lawn, Oak Bluffs, 10-11:30a / More Info / Free

• 🦀 One Bad Crab: Screening, Discussion and Green Crab Tasting @ Vineyard Haven Public Library, Vineyard Haven, 4p / More Info / Free
  Watch the 38-minute environmental film One Bad Crab, then hear from members of the MV shellfish community about the invasive European green crab.

• ⚓ Little Lady Restoration Celebration @ Gannon & Benjamin Marine Railway, Vineyard Haven, 4:30-6:30p / More Info
  Celebrate the history and restoration of the Little Lady, a 1929 wooden fishing vessel that has worked MV waters for generations.

• 🎉 Built on Stilts 30th Anniversary Soirée and FUNdraiser @ Portuguese-American Club, Oak Bluffs, 6-9p / More Info / Sliding scale
  Celebrate 30 years of Built on Stilts with finger food, mingling, pop-up performances, a silent auction, cash bar and dance party, all supporting the organization’s inclusive performing arts programming.

• 🎶 Friday Nights with Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish @ Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs, 6-8p / More Info / $20

• 🎵 Special Performance by Harpist Lexie Lowell @ Stillpoint, West Tisbury, 6-7p / More Info / $20-$40
  NYC-based pop harpist and singer-songwriter Lexie Lowell performs an intimate set paired with light guided breathwork and meditation for a relaxed evening of music.

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series — Dock Dance Band @ MVCMA Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

• 🎭 Women Behaving Badly @ Union Chapel, Oak Bluffs, 7-9p / More Info / $40-$70
  Mezzo-soprano, author and performer Heather Poduska stars in a genre-blending one-woman show combining soaring vocals, sharp humor and storytelling about finding your own voice. Use code MVACAY for a discount!

Saturday, August 29, 2026

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market @ Grange Hall, West Tisbury, 9a-12p / More Info / Alternate market location today

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market @ Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info

• 🎭 The Fabulists @ Tisbury Amphitheater, Vineyard Haven, 10a

• 🐴 Misty Meadows Saturday Pony Rides @ Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center, West Tisbury, 10a-12p / More Info / $30

• 🎨 Jenn Brown Textile Art + MV Glassworks Collaboration Reception @ The Field Gallery, West Tisbury, 4-6p / More Info /
  See the results of MV Glassworks’ 2026 artist residency with Jenn Brown, whose textile-based ideas have been translated into new glass forms through months of collaboration with the MVG team.

• 🎭 Vineyard Arts Project Open Call Resident Work-in-Progress Sharing @ Vineyard Arts Project, Edgartown, 5-6p / More Info / Pay what you can
  See works in progress from Vineyard Arts Project’s 2026 Open Call residents, selected from more than 350 applicants for a week of free development time on MV. Featured projects include work by Ben Anderson and Justin Craig, Abs Wilson and Veronica Mansour, Fouad Dakwar, and The Pack Theatre Company.

• 🎶 Indigo Girls @ MVCMA Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs, 7:30p / More Info / $71

Sunday, August 30, 2026

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market @ Washington Park, Oak Bluffs, 10a-2p / /

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival @ Historic Grange Hall, West Tisbury, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🎤 Community Sing @ Tisbury Amphitheater, Vineyard Haven, 5-6p / More Info / Free

• 🚣 38th Annual Oar & Paddle Regatta @ Island Spirit Kayak, State Beach, Oak Bluffs, 9-11a / More Info / $50
  Kayakers, paddleboarders, swimmers and other human-powered watercraft take on a 2.4-mile race on Sengekontacket Pond to raise money for Friends of Sengekontacket. The race itself starts at 10a, with check-in beforehand.

• 🧘 Sound Bath with Anna Marden @ Stillpoint, West Tisbury, 4-5p / More Info / $20-$40

• 🎶 Restorative Sound Journey @ Peaked Hill Studio, Chilmark, 4-5:15p / More Info / $30-$45

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert @ Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, 5:30-7:30p / Free

Read more

Last Updated August 24, 2026.

📅 2027 Confirmed Event Dates on Martha’s Vineyard

As always, dates can change, so confirm directly with the event organizer when making plans.

• March 31–April 4, 2027 - Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival (Circuit Arts)

• March 28, 2027 - Easter Sunday

• May 31, 2027 - Memorial Day

• June 12, 2027 - MV Pride Parade

• June 19, 2027 - Oak Bluffs HarborFest

• June 19, 2027 - Juneteenth

• July 4, 2027 - Edgartown Fourth of July Parade + Fireworks

• July 8, 2027 - Tisbury Street Fair

• July 25-August 1, 2027 - Legacy Week on MV/HBCU Week on Martha’s Vineyard

• August 12–15, 2027 - Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair

• August 18, 2027 - Grand Illumination Night at MVCMA (projected based on its established annual schedule; awaiting official 2027 announcement)

• August 20, 2027 - Oak Bluffs Fireworks Display (projected for the third Friday in August based on the town’s established schedule; awaiting official 2027 announcement)

• September 6, 2027 - Labor Day

• September 18, 2027 - Tivoli Day

• October 11, 2027 - Indigenous Peoples’ Day

• November 11, 2027 - Veterans Day

• December 4, 2027 - Light Up Oak Bluffs

• December 9-12, 2027 - Christmas in Edgartown (traditionally held the second weekend in December; awaiting official 2027 announcement)

📅 2027 Unconfirmed Event Dates on Martha’s Vineyard

• Events Typically in March (Unconfirmed): Meat Ball, Night Out for Nonprofits

• Events Typically in April (Unconfirmed): MV SWELL Lip Sync Contest at the PA Club, Misty Meadows Annual Egg Hunt, Annual Farm Institute Egg Hunt, MV Career & Networking Night at Grange Hall, MV Hospital Community Health Fair, Bivalve Ball at Chilmark Community Center, Earth Day Conservation Festival + Beach Cleanup with VCS, MV Spring Classic Marathon + Half Marathon

• Events Typically in May (Unconfirmed): Bike MS: Martha’s Vineyard, Aquinnah Variety Show at Aquinnah Town Hall, Porchfest Edgartown, Martha’s Party Event Conference, MV Environmental Film Festival (MV Film Society), Memorial Day Weekend Vineyard Artisans Festival, MV Garden Club Plant Sale at The Old Mill, MV SOUND, Edgartown Sidewalk Sale, MV Memorial Road Race, Blessing of the Fleet

• Events Typically in June (Unconfirmed): Juneteenth Events, Farmers Markets Begin, First Fridays Begin, Taste of the Vineyard, Blooming Art, Strawberry Festival at Morning Glory Farm, JAWS Reunion, Vineyard Cup Regatta, Fluke for Luke Tournament Weekend, Campground Flea at MVCMA Tabernacle, Island Elderly Housing Benefit Concert at Featherstone

• Events Typically in July (Unconfirmed): Cottagers House Tour at Cottagers’ Corner, MV Book Festival, Native Artisan Market + Festival at Aquinnah Circle, PA Club Annual Feast, HBCU Legacy Week

• Events Typically in August (Unconfirmed): MV Comedy Festival, Built on Stilts Festival, Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival, Chilmark Road Race, Black Education Forum, MV Black Book Festival, MV Vibe Fest at Waban Park, Martha’s Vineyard Soulfest, Gospel Benefit Concert, MV Jazz Experience

• Events Typically in September (Unconfirmed): Wind Festival at Waban-Alley Park, Aquinnah Wampanoag Powwow, MV Striped Bass + Bluefish Derby

• Events Typically in October (Unconfirmed): Family Day at the PA Club, Misty Meadows Ponies + Pumpkins, Vineyard Artisans Fall Festival, Pumpkin Festival at Morning Glory Farm, Harvest Festival with the Ag Society, Happy Haunting Edgartown

• Events Typically in November (Unconfirmed): Barn Raisers Ball with the Ag Society, Vineyard Artisans Thanksgiving Weekend Festival, Chowder Cup Edgartown, Small Business Saturday

• Events Typically in December (Unconfirmed): Light Up Oak Bluffs

💛 PSA: All MVacay posts and guides are original content. Please don’t copy, repost, or engage in digital plagiarism (including uploading to websites or AI systems) without permission. I’m always open to collaborations, ghostwriting, or licensing if you’d like to use my work the right way!

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

My kiddos were finally old enough to go on the pirate ship! I loved adding this to our MV favorites list. It was so interactive! Just a few weeks left to fit it in for the summer:

I’ve been collecting a list of some fascinating facts and put them all together in this fun post. Hopefully even the most veteran Vineyarders learn something new:

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, August 21, 2026

• 🕯️ The Open Door Club by SANCTUAIRE @ 15 Church St., Edgartown / All Weekend thru 8/29.
  A fragrance pop-up and historic photo installation highlighting Black leisure communities.

• 🌿 Polly Hill Arboretum Staff-Led Botanical Spotlight Tour @ Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury, 10-11a / More Info / Included with admission

• 🎨 Artist Party @ KIN, 12 N Water St., Edgartown, 3-7p
  Featuring jewelry by Sissy Yates Design, ceramics by Creney Ceramics and paintings by Marston Clough, with snacks and refreshments.

• 🎨 Brush and Blooms — A Flower Painting Workshop with Traeger di Pietro @ Morning Glory Flower Farm, West Tisbury, 3-5p / More Info / $175

• 🎸 Porch Concert: Mike Mok and the Em-Tones @ West Tisbury Public Library, 3:30-4:30p / More Info / Free

• 🧘 Family Yoga @ The Yard, 4-5p / Free

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series — Jon Bates Band @ MVCMA Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

• 😂 15th Annual MV Comedy Fest @ The Strand Theatre, Oak Bluffs, 8p / More Info / $78.25 GA
  Week 3 lineup includes Damon Williams, Brooklyn Mike, Tony Wood and James “Talent” Harris.

  🎆 Oak Bluffs Fireworks Display @ Ocean Park, after 9p / More Info
  Rain date Sat., Aug. 22. Best viewing is from Ocean Park. Blankets may not be left unattended before 4p, and tarps are prohibited. Parking at Washington Park and Alley-Waban Park opens at 3:30p and is $20 cash only. VTA buses will operate at Tuckernuck & Seaview Ave. and Dukes County & New York Ave.; expect road closures, detours and heavy traffic before, during and after the show.

Saturday, August 22, 2026

• 🏃 MV Hospital Sullivan 5K Run/Walk @ Washington Park, Oak Bluffs, 9a / More Info / $32.80
  Scenic East Chop 5K with a Kids Dash, refreshments and awards. Proceeds benefit MV Hospital’s Alpha-gal Syndrome Research & Clinical Program.

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market @ Grange Hall, West Tisbury, 9a-12p / More Info / Alternate market location today

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market @ Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info

• 🎭 The Fabulists @ Tisbury Amphitheater, Vineyard Haven, 10a /

• 🎷 MV Jazz Experience @ Trinity Park Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs, 1-7p / More Info / $56+
  Featuring Alex Bugnon, Tia Fuller, Michael Mayo, Wycliffe Gordon, Bill Easley, Jimmie Highsmith Jr. and Taryn Sunchild.

• 🛍️ 6th Annual Neighborhood Goods @ 27 Hewing Field, Chilmark, 1-4p
  Sips and shopping with Awet New York, Cesta Collective, Coco’s Kids, Gogo Jewelry, Jahde Leather Atelier, La Ligne, Midnight Farm, Overset and more. Benefits Chilmark Preschool.

• 🎨 Arts District Stroll + Art Yard Sale @ Dukes County Ave., Oak Bluffs, 4-7p / More Info / Free
  Visit Alison Shaw Gallery, Michael Blanchard Studio and Judith Drew Schubert Studio, plus Galaxy Arts MV’s Art Yard Sale in the corral at 88 Dukes County Ave.

• 💃 Kiki Artist Collective: How Far Can We Go @ Vineyard Arts Project, Edgartown, 5-6p / More Info / Pay what you can
  Work-in-progress movement performance rooted in ballroom culture.

• 🎬 American Diner: Teaser Screening and Conversation @ Stillpoint, West Tisbury, 6-9p / More Info / Free, RSVP, donations encouraged
  Includes a 10-minute documentary preview (a docuseries collaboration between Artcliff Diner chef Gina Stanley and filmmakers Ian Moubayed, director of Keys to the City and Helen Cho) filmmaker conversation, then dinner, drinks and music.

• 🎤 Combat to Comfort @ Owen Park, Vineyard Haven, 7-8p / More Info / Free
  Interview and open Q&A with Navy veteran and humanitarian Dr. Rev. William Devlin about his work in conflict zones around the world.

• 😂 Seth Meyers Live: A Benefit for Chilmark Preschool @ MV Performing Arts Center, Oak Bluffs, 7:30p / More Info / $161.90

Sunday, August 23, 2026

• ⛪ The Very Rev. John Streit, Preacher and Celebrant @ Trinity Episcopal Church on Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, 9-10a / More Info / Offering

• 🏀 Chappy’s Play It Forward Sports Equipment Giveaway @ Steere the Course Mini Golf, Vineyard Haven, 10a-12p / More Info / Free
  Free golf, tennis, baseball, hockey gear, cleats, bikes and more for Island kids and families. Non-perishable food donations for the Island Food Pantry are welcome.

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market @ Washington Park, Oak Bluffs, 10a-2p / /

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival @ Historic Grange Hall, West Tisbury, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🎤 Community Sing @ Tisbury Amphitheater, Vineyard Haven, 5-6p / More Info / Free

• 🦈 From Jaws to Awe: How the World Moved from Fear to Fascination @ MV Museum, Vineyard Haven, 5-6p / More Info / $15-$25

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert @ Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, 5:30-7:30p / Free

Read more

📬 Susan Branch Built a Vineyard Cottage-Core Empire

You would immediately recognize the work and influence of Susan Branch, but you may not know she was a seasonal resident of Vineyard Haven! Her mailed (yes, MAILED!) newsletter, Willard, reportedly grew from about 2,000 copies to 25,000 before going digital, long before online newsletters became a business model. Her iconic hand-lettering, recipes, calendars, books, and homey aesthetic became a whole cottage-core costal-grandmother industry, and she remains a beloved author.

🪑 Chicken Alley May Be the Highest-Grossing Thrift Shop Per Square Foot in the Country

I had heard Chicken Alley was unusually successful, but I didn’t realize how unusual: it has been described as the highest-grossing thrift shop per square foot in the United States, and in 2021–2022, it topped $1 million in annual sales for the first time.

💐 Second Bloom MV Repurposes the Wedding Flowers

On an island with so many weddings and events, it’s easy to look skeptically at the waste. Luckily, Rae Carter saw flowers from an East Chop Lighthouse wedding being discarded, and now repurposes arrangements go to people and places across the Island. These post-event destinations include the hospital, hospice, food pantry, senior centers, schools, libraries, and more. What a cool way to give back!

🐸 Vineyard Lingo: Pinkletinks and Beetlebung

I knew the words but not the backstory. “Pinkletink” is a Vineyard name for spring peepers, and “beetlebung” is the Island name for black tupelo, or black gum. Both are normalized local vocabulary, but they are tied to the Island’s spring sounds and native trees.

🎣 The First Derby Gave Away LAND as a Prize

The first Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass Derby prize list feels almost unreal now. In 1946, one special prize for non-residents was a “lot of land on Martha’s Vineyard suitable for sportsman’s camp,” courtesy of Henry Cronig. Now, the prize winners receive a boat (or this year a Jeep), but winning land must’ve been so cool!

🤟 Chilmark’s Historic Signing Community

Martha’s Vineyard had an unusually high rate of hereditary Deafness from the 17th century into the early 20th century, but the part that stayed with me how many HEARING Islanders signed too. In the 19th century, 1 in 25 Chilmark residents were Deaf, and in Squibnocket in the 1870s and 1880s, that number was reportedly 1 in 4. In Chilmark especially, sign language was part of everyday communication, and Deaf community members were present in work, church, family, politics, and town life.

🧠 MV Has Generous Safety-Net Services

I know about a lot of amazing Island nonprofits, but some cool offerings I learned recently: there is free, same-day mental health support available through MV Community Services. Plus reproductive health care advocacy through MV SWELL, including funding tied to abortion access and vasectomy reimbursement. Availability, eligibility, and funding can change, so check directly with each organization.

🕷️ Don’t Forget to SAVE the Tick

Checking for ticks is step one, but SAVING a tick after a bite can be helpful too, especially if you are being cautious with kids. MV Medical recommends saving ticks for identification and testing, since knowing the type of tick can help guide next steps. On MV, where Alpha-Gal cases have climbed quickly, identifying whether it was a lone star tick can give you faster context than waiting to see if confusing symptoms appear later. It is not a replacement for medical care, and tick testing cannot tell you whether you will develop Alpha-Gal, but it can help identify the tick and test for certain tick-borne pathogens. If a tick was attached, contact a provider quickly; MV Medical notes that prophylactic treatment is most effective within 72 hours. You can mail ticks to services like TickReport; they generally ask you to save the tick in a small sealed container or zipper bag, ideally with a small piece of slightly damp paper towel.

✈️ Katama Airfield Is the Largest GRASS Airfield

Katama Airfield is described as the largest GRASS airfield in the country, with deep family ties that continue today. Its preservation is especially incredible: in the 1970s, the 128-acre field could have become roughly 120 housing units, but Steve Gentle refused to sell it off that way. Instead, the town, the Nature Conservancy, and the state eventually helped preserve it as an airfield. So instead of houses, the Katama Plains are a rare coastal sandplain grassland habitat whose plants and insects have adapted to salt spray, storms, and fire. Gentle’s grandson, Mike Creato, still runs Classic Aviators out of the airfield today.

🇧🇷 40%+ of Island Students Speak Portuguese at Home

Martha’s Vineyard has a large and growing Brazilian community. Some school data shows Portuguese is spoken at home by nearly HALF of Island students. More translation, outreach, and Portuguese-language services are being added across the Island. That makes Portuguese-language access a basic part of helping Island families feel informed, included, and welcome.

What impressed me most was how thoughtful the experience felt from start to finish. There were so many little details, the crew made a point to include every child, and parents could mostly sit back and enjoy the ride.

Here’s everything to know if you’re thinking about setting sail:

🏴‍☠️ About Pirate Adventures

Pirate Adventures of Martha’s Vineyard operates the Sea Gypsy X, a custom-built 40-foot pirate ship that sails from Oak Bluffs Harbor. The experience is designed specifically around kids rather than being a traditional boat cruise with a few children’s activities added on.

Before even boarding, kids are transformed into the ship’s newest pirate crew with pirate names, face painting, costumes and pirate training. Once underway, the group works through an interactive treasure-hunt story involving a treasure map, a message in a bottle, water cannons, a rival pirate and eventually a sunken treasure chest that the kids help pull from the water.

The full experience lasts about 90 minutes, with approximately 20 minutes of pirate prep on land and 70 minutes aboard the boat.

⚓ Our Pirate Adventure

Check-in was incredibly friendly and personalized. Before boarding, the girls got into character with pirate vests, face/hand painting and their new pirate gear. Once we were on the boat, there was very little downtime.

They were using both their brains and their bodies, and the activities changed frequently enough that even my three-year-old stayed engaged. The team also seemed very aware of making sure every child got a turn and felt included. We had a good-sized group aboard, but it never felt overcrowded or chaotic.

And as a parent, this was refreshingly easy. We were obviously still responsible for our children, but the crew really took over the entertainment. Rather than spending the entire outing trying to keep the girls occupied, we could mostly sit back, watch them participate and enjoy being out on the water.

The boat ride itself was mostly steady during our trip, and although there are water cannons involved in the adventure, we never got wet. And the girls were thrilled with what they came home with: treasure, a sword, bandana and eye patch. Between the boat ride, live entertainment, activities and take-home goodies, it felt like a really good value.

It also has the personal feel of a small, family-run business. Nothing about our visit felt thrown together or generic; from check-in through the final treasure hunt, it felt like they had really considered what would keep kids engaged and make the experience special.

🗒️ Visit Planning

📍 Location: Dockside Marketplace & Marina, 12 Circuit Avenue Extension, Oak Bluffs. Check in inside Dockside Marketplace at the Treasure Chest Pirate Shop before heading outside to the Pirates in Training staging area.

⏰ Length: Approximately 90 minutes total—about 20 minutes of pirate prep on land and 70 minutes at sea.

🧒 Ages: Pirate Adventures recommends the experience for ages 3–10. Based on our visit with a three- and four-year-old, I personally think ages 5–7 are probably the sweet spot, although both of my younger girls were able to participate and had a great time.

💲 2026 Pricing: $44 per child or adult; $25 for infants under 12 months. Everyone aboard needs a ticket. Pirate Packs: $15 add-on including a Pirate Adventures bandana, foam sword and eye patch. Vests and sashes used during the adventure are loaned for the trip.

📅 2026 Schedule: Sailings are currently offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday (some Sundays), with up to three departures per day depending on demand. The last date of sail for 2026 is September 6. Check the online booking calendar for the most current sailing times and availability, it’s typically 9:15a, 11:45a and 2pm.

🎟️ Reservations: Advance reservations are required, although walk-ups may be accepted when space is available. Plan to arrive by your listed booking time—the pirate prep begins before the boat departs.

🅿️ Parking: There is no dedicated Pirate Adventures parking, and summer parking around Oak Bluffs Harbor can be difficult. Give yourself extra time to find a spot; they cannot hold the boat for late arrivals.

🚽 Bathroom: There is no bathroom aboard the boat, so definitely make a bathroom stop inside Dockside Marketplace before sailing.

👶 Strollers: Strollers cannot go aboard because space is limited, but they can be stored at the pirate shop.

🧴 What to Bring: Water and sunscreen are recommended. You can bring small snacks and drinks, but no glass. A sweatshirt or light layer is also smart since it can feel cooler once you’re out on the water.

🌦️ Weather: They sail in many conditions, including light rain, but trips can be cancelled for heavy rain, thunderstorms, high winds or other conditions the captain considers unsafe.

Our experience was hosted by Pirate Adventures of Martha’s Vineyard. #gifted

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

I’ve seen a lot of local chatter about off-island organizations hosting local pop-ups. In this article I shared how you can bring something to Martha’s Vineyard while ALSO supporting the people, businesses and organizations that work so hard year round to make this such a special place to visit:

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, August 14, 2026

• 🎡 164th Annual Agricultural Fair at MV Agricultural Hall, 10a–11p Fri & Sat; 10a–6p Sun / $10-$15 / Tickets / Fiesta Rides / + $10 Cash for Parking

  A classic MV summer tradition, the Ag Fair brings together carnival rides, animals, exhibits, competitions, food and family activities.

  • Friday highlights: Kids Corn Husking Competition at 2p, Chopstick Knitting Competition at 3p and Pet Show at 3p.

  • Saturday highlights: Kiddie Pedal Tractor Pull at 11a, Shucking Competition at 3p, Sack Races at 5p and Tug-O-War at 5:30p.

  • Sunday highlights: Dog Show at 10a, Chopstick Knitting Competition at 3p and Women’s Skillet Toss at 3p.

  • Rides are separate from admission and parking: Unlimited ride megapasses are $70 per person per day; Friday-night unlimited wristbands are $50 from 5–10p. Individual ride cards are also available at carnival kiosks.

• 🎬 MVAAFF (Sat too) / $30-60 per individual program

  The Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival continues its weekend programming with screenings and conversations featuring filmmakers, actors and entertainment-industry leaders. A few films with tickets remaining:

  • 1–2:45p — The Color of Cola: A 79-minute screening followed by a conversation with co-directors Stanley Nelson and Jacqueline Olive, moderated by Warner Bros. Discovery EVP Sheereen Miller-Russell.

• 👗 The Co-Ops Summer Pop-Up at Salte, 12–4p / More Info

• 🤖 2026 Black Education Forum at Old Whaling Church, 4–5:30p / More Info / Free / Registration is required.

• 🧘 Free Family Yoga at The Yard, 4–5p / Free

• 🎹 Sublime Schubert at Stillpoint, 5p / More Info / $20

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series – The Roundabouts at MVCMA Tabernacle, 6–7:30p / Free-will offering

• 🎭 Hadestown: The Musical at MV Film Center, 7:30p / More Info / $18

• 💃 Built on Stilts at Union Chapel, 7:45–9p (Sat, Sun + Mon too) / More Info / Free

  The Island’s Community Dance and Performance Festival celebrates its 30th year with free, inspired dance and other forms of performance.

Saturday, August 15, 2026

• 🏖️ Greek Week on MV at Inkwell Beach, All Day (Sun too) / Free

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at GRANGE, 9a-12p / More Info (note: alternate location thru 8/22)

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info

• 🏃 5K Run for Camp Jabberwocky at The FARM Institute, 9a / More Info

• 🎭 The Fabulists at Tisbury Amphitheater, 10a

• 🎉 MV Vibe Fest at Alley/Waban Park, 11a–8p / More Info / Free

  Vibe Fest brings food, music, culture and community together for a full day in Oak Bluffs, with local vendors, performers and organizations gathering near Inkwell Beach. It includes a Vibe Fest Meets Greek Fest, a Truth & Joy Celebration with performances and a community parade with the MV Diversity Coalition. Features a Silent Disco with HBCU Legacy Week, Food including Everybody Gotta Eat, Eleven Circuit, Honorary Tavern and Yommi.

• 🎬 MVAAFF (Fri too) / $30-60 per individual program

  • 2–3p — Warner Bros. Television Group Celebrates the Stars Behind Hit TV Shows: Featuring actors Luke Tennie, Nicholas Duvernay and Bre-Z, with Extra senior correspondent Mona Kosar Abdi moderating.

  • 7–10:30p — Advanced Screening: Lanterns Ep. 1 + Earth, Wind & Fire: An advance screening of Lanterns Episode 1 followed by Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial vs. That’s the Weight of the World) and a conversation with Questlove, moderated by Sheereen Miller-Russell.

• 🎤 Vineyard Sound Farewell to Summer Show at Old Whaling Church, 7–9p / More Info

• 🎸 MVCMA Benefit Concert: The Wallflowers at MVCMA Tabernacle, 7:30–11p / More Info / $86+

• 🌙 MV Soulfest Kickoff Party – Vineyard Speakeasy: R&B After Dark at Indigo, 10p–12:45a / More Info

  MV Soulfest kicks off its 5th anniversary celebration with a late-night R&B party at Indigo in Edgartown. Expect special guest DJs, cocktails, food.

*As a reminder, sold out events are excluded from MVacay listings.

Sunday, August 16, 2026

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• ☀️ MV Soulfest Sunday Soulfest Day Party at Eleven Circuit, 3–8p / More Info

• 🎻 Atlantic Harmony String Duo at MV Film Center, 4–5p / More Info / $25

• 🎻 Harlem Quartet at Old Whaling Church, 5–6:30p / More Info / $40

• 📖 Author Talk: Eugene Robinson — Freedom Won, Freedom Lost at Chilmark Community Center, 7–8:30p / More Info / $75

• ✨ Magic and Mentalism at Portuguese-American Club, 8–9:30p / More Info / $35

• 🎤 Community Sing at Tisbury Amphitheater, 5-6p / More Info / Free

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / Free

Read more

I also think there are thoughtful ways to make sure your event includes and supports the community you are arriving to. There are people here working year round to make this Island special. If you are planning something on Martha’s Vineyard, here are 10 ways I would encourage you to approach it:

🤝 Hire Island vendors whenever you can

There is an incredible network of people on Martha’s Vineyard who already know how to make things happen here. Before bringing every vendor over from off Island, see if a local photographer, planner, caterer, florist, musician, rental company, transportation provider, or other Island business can fill the role.

• Lis’s Tips: when working with island vendors, give them at least 2 months notice! This will ensure you can get fit into their schedule.

🎨 Pay Island creatives for their work

If you want Martha’s Vineyard represented in your branding, invitations, signage, merchandise, or social content, consider commissioning someone who actually creates here. Hire a local artist, license an Island photographer’s image, or work with a designer who knows the place rather than treating Vineyard imagery as something free to borrow.

• Lis’s Tips: on channels like Visit Martha’s Vineyard, note which photographers images you like and then look to see who is tagged. Reach out and describe the type of image you’d like to license, it’ll be a great nod to local talent and make your flyer beautiful! For video reach out to creators and see their rate for producing a reel with island B-roll for you.

📣 Include Island creators and community voices

If you are inviting media, influencers, creators, or tastemakers to your event, save some space for people who are already part of the Vineyard community. There are local writers, photographers, creators, business owners, and organizations who spend all year sharing and supporting what happens here.

Remember that Martha’s Vineyard is also a diverse, multilingual community, including a large Brazilian and Portuguese-speaking population. Consider translating invitations, flyers, social posts, or other outreach into Portuguese so more of the Island community can actually hear about and participate in what you’re creating.

🛍️ Source locally before bringing everything over

Welcome bags, gifts, flowers, food, favors, merchandise, and other event details are all opportunities to put some of your event spending back into the Island economy. You can introduce your guests to Martha’s Vineyard businesses at the same time.

• Lis’s Tips: Tote Bags from Toteally Yours, chocolate from Salt Rock, zucchini bread from Morning Glory, flowers from Donaroma’s are some of my favorites to receive over and over again.

🍽️ Make a plan for leftover food

Before the event, think about what will happen to food that is still safe and usable when everything wraps up. Depending on what you have, there may be an opportunity to share it with staff, volunteers, a community fridge, food pantry, or another Island organization rather than throwing it away.

• Lis’s Tips: the Island Food Pantry can accept closed food, Red House Peer Recovery Center can receive food donations I believe, there is a Free Fridge at the Hospital, or just ask in Free Stuff Martha’s Vineyard Facebook Groups.

💐 Give event leftovers a second life

Flowers, décor, furniture, clothing, merchandise, and other event materials do not necessarily need to leave on the ferry or end up in the trash. Consider whether flowers could brighten a local senior living community or whether usable items could be donated to a thrift shop, the family center, or another Island organization.

• Lis’s Tips: Second Bloom MV does repurposed flowers! Or reach out to the Council on Aging in your town.

❤️ Support an Island nonprofit or community organization

If Martha’s Vineyard is helping make your event special, I love the idea of directing a little of that benefit back into the community. That might mean making a donation, including a nonprofit partner, sponsoring something, or simply introducing your guests to an Island cause worth knowing about. If you’re not sure which organization is the best fit, the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce is a great connector.

• Lis’s Tips: I love to donate to the Red Stocking Fund, Island Grown Initiative and MV Clothes to Go!

🗓️ Know what is already happening on the Island

Martha’s Vineyard has a very full community calendar, especially in the summer. Before choosing your date, take a look at what local organizations, businesses, festivals, and nonprofits already have planned so you understand what you are arriving into.

📍 Help your guests understand the Island they’re visiting

Your event may take place at one venue, but your guests will be navigating the entire Island. Help them understand ferries, transportation, parking, beaches, towns, restaurants, local etiquette, and the basics of getting around before they arrive.

MVacay’s customizable Host Guide is designed for exactly this. Hosts can purchase a guide, personalize it for their event or group, and give guests a local resource to help them feel oriented while also directing them toward Island businesses and experiences.

Buy the Host + Guest Travel Guide

🌊 Leave the Island better than you found it

Martha’s Vineyard is a year round community that people work very hard to sustain. You do not have to be from the Vineyard to create something meaningful here. I just hope that when you do, some of your attention, spending, exposure, and resources stay with the Island and the people who make it the place you wanted to come to in the first place ❤️

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

With so many Black, HBCU, Greek, and African American events happening this week, I wanted to resurface one of my favorite guides, which I’ve updated to include businesses that are new for 2026:

My paid subscribers have a special perk this week: two handy pocket guides! They take the 100-page, not-so-mobile-friendly event guides and distill them into easy-to-skim resources to help you plan your time at both events:

Subscribe now

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

All Weekend

• 💃 Built on Stilts at Union Chapel, 7:45-9p nightly / More Info / Free
  The community dance and performance festival celebrates its 30th year with performances Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7:45-9p each night.

• 🎬 MV African American Film Festival at MVPAC, times vary / More Info
  The annual festival presents film screenings, conversations, and cultural programming across MV from Aug. 7-15. Individual tickets available.

• Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend

Please note that MVacay’s Weekend Updates exclude SOLD OUT Events!

Friday, August 7, 2026

• 🎣 Family Fishing at Oak Bluffs Fishing Pier, 9:30-11:30a / More Info /
  Kids, teens, and their adults can fish with an Oak Bluffs librarian, with equipment and supplies provided.

• 🎉 First Friday Vineyard Haven throughout downtown Vineyard Haven, 10a-11p / More Info / Free

  • 10a–2p: Daytime Art Market + Art Hang (Live Music at 12)

  • 4p: Live Music Begins

  • 5p: Food trucks open, activities on the hill (Owen Park)

  • 7:30–8p: Fire performance

  • 9–11p: Silent DJ Party

• 🌻 Pick Your Own Sunflowers at The FARM Institute, 10a-3:30p (Sat too) / $25

• 🗼 National Lighthouse Day at Gay Head Lighthouse, 10a-4p

• 🎨 Art En Blanc at Cottagers, Inc., 10a-8p (Sat too) / Free
  Explore a curated exhibition of paintings, sculptures, graphics, and quilts by prominent Black artists.

• 🛍️ Sips & Sweets with She Shell Designs at Rainy Day, Vineyard Haven, 12-4p

• 💬 Center for Constitutional Rights: A Conversation with Vince Warren at Oak Bluffs Public Library, 3-5p / More Info

• 🧘 Family Yoga at The Yard, 4-5p / More Info / Free

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series with Anna Laura Quinn at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

• 🎭 As You Like It at Tisbury Amphitheater, 6p (Sat too) / More Info

• 🎷 Grace Kelly Benefit Concert at Old Whaling Church, 7:30-9:30p / More Info / $30-$100
  Saxophonist, vocalist, and composer Grace Kelly celebrates more than 20 years of music while raising funds for Island nonprofits.

• 🎸 Will Dailey in Chilmark at Ocean View Farm Road, 7:30-9p / More Info / $40

• 😂 15th Annual MV Comedy Fest at The Strand Theatre, 8-10p / More Info / $72+
  The annual comedy festival returns to the Strand Theatre for an evening of live stand-up.

• 🎵 BlueSwitch Blues Band at Portuguese-American Club, 8-10p / $10 at door

Saturday, August 8, 2026

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at MV Agricultural Hall, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info

• 🎭 The Fabulists at Tisbury Amphitheater, 10a / More Info

• 🌊 August Seine Net Event at Doug’s Cove Preserve, 12-2p / More Info / Free
  Join local scientists as they drag a seine net through the pond and identify the coastal species collected.

• 👜 Create Your Legacy: Bee Blunt x Tote-Ally Yours Pop-Up at Tote-Ally Yours, Oak Bluffs, 6p / More Info

• 🎤 A Soulful Evening with Theresa Thomason at Stillpoint, 7p / More Info / $30-$60

• 😂 Comedian Jackie Flynn Live Stand-Up Comedy Event at MV Film Center, 7:30p / More Info / $30-$35

Sunday, August 9, 2026

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🏀 Alex Cohen Memorial Basketball Marathon at Chilmark Community Center Basketball Court, 10:30a-3:30p / More Info / $30 solo; $75 per team of three

• 🙏 Festival of Worship in Word and Song at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 2p / More Info / Donations welcome
  Rev. Senator Raphael G. Warnock and music director Mark A. Miller lead an afternoon of worship, music, and community.

• 🎨 Anonymous Art at Featherstone Center for the Arts, Art Barn, 4p / More Info / $30
  Guests can compete for anonymous 6-by-6-inch artworks while enjoying wine, beer, and appetizers.

• 🎤 Community Sing at Tisbury Amphitheater, 5-6p / More Info / Free

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / Free

BONUS SECTION: I usually don’t talk about Weekday Fun…but if there’s ever a week to do it it’s this week! I didn’t audit which of the following is sold out, but get out there and enjoy! Upgrade to Paid to get the rest of August.

Monday, August 10, 2026

• Motown Monday at MVCMA Tabernacle, 6–7p / Broadway Divas at Martha’s Vineyard Film Center / Black Oak Ensemble at First Congregational Church of West Tisbury / Magic and Mentalism with Magic Mike Jacobson at Chilmark Community Center / Otra at Grange Hall, 5p / Bob and David Climb Machu Picchu at Grange Hall, 7:30p

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

• The Vineyard Classic 5k at Washington Park /Martha’s Vineyard HBCU College Fair at Trinity Park Tabernacle / The Pursuit of Home: An Evening on Martha’s Vineyard / Martha’s Vineyard Soulfest Opening Night Party at 11 Circuit Avenue / Silo Session with Shawan Rice at Slough Farm / Martha’s Vineyard Black History & Legacy Tour Experience from Union Chapel / Tuesday Blues with Jeremy Berlin + Delanie Pickering at Morning Glory Farm

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

• Black Wealth Weekend Begins / Rotational Grazing Tasting Tour at Beetlebung Farm / A Conversation with Belle Burden & Amy Schumer at The Yard / Terrible Thicket Escape Room at Vineyard Haven Public Library, 3:30p + 5p / This Is Our Island at MV Film Center / Skippy Scallop Storytime and Touch Tank at Grange Hall /

Thursday, August 13, 2026

• August 13 - The Momentum Summit / Sen. Raphael Warnock at the Chilmark Community Center / Summer Institute: Meet the Puzzlers at Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center / Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair Begins / Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes in the Sunflower Field at The FARM Institute

Read more

• 🗓️ Festival Dates: August 7–15, 2026

• 📍 All screenings take place at the Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center, 100 Edgartown–Vineyard Haven Road, Oak Bluffs

• ℹ️ Registration and festival information begin daily at 10:30am

• ⚠️ The festival itinerary is subject to change without notice

Buy Tickets

🎬 Daily Schedule: What’s Playing + Where to Be

🗝️ How to Use MVacay’s Guide

• 🎬 = Film screening or film block

• 💬 = Conversation or panel following a screening

• 🛋️ = Vineyard Lounge Programming

• 🏆 = Festival nominee

• 🎉 = Party, reception, or special event

• 🎟️ = Individual tickets available

• ❌ = Passholder-only event

🛋️ Vineyard Lounge Programming

The Vineyard Lounge has a separate schedule of panels, conversations, screenings, and brand activations throughout the festival. Unless otherwise noted, Lounge events take place on the grounds of the Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center.

Read more

💡 I created this guide to help families like mine avoid the info overload. Instead of flipping through the 100 page fair book or missing something great, you can check this post for the full schedule, parent tips, food details, and more. Bookmark it, share it, and enjoy the Fair!

• 🗓️ Dates: Thursday, August 13–Sunday, August 16, 2026

• 📍 Location: Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society Fairgrounds, 35 Panhandle Road, West Tisbury

• 🎪 This year: The Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society celebrates its 164th Livestock Show & Fair with the theme Farm • Family • Fair.

• 🎟️ Ticket information, carnival ride details, daily schedules, Fair entry deadlines, and tips are included below.

🧭 Overview

Fair Hours:

• Thursday, August 13: 10a–11p / Cattle Day

• Friday, August 14: 10a–11p / Horse Day

• Saturday, August 15: 10a–11p / Farm Machinery Day

• Sunday, August 16: 10a–6p / Dog Show Day

🎡 Carnival rides open at 11a each day.

*This post was last updated Tuesday, August 10, 2026.

Buy Tickets to the Fair

Read the Fair Book

Buy Fiesta Rides Passes for Rides

Read more

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

This week I talked about my first Inter-Island Day trip to Nantucket. It was so easy! I asked Hy-Line Cruises for a discount code, and they said you can use MVACAY for 20% inter-island travel through the rest of 2026. Enjoy! 🫡

I recently saw someone ask the question “What’s the MV equivalent of WholeFoods?” And the answer was FARM STANDS! I aggregated my favorite resources for eating local and supporting farms on MV ❤️

This old post of mine includes all my favorite traffic and parking hacks and ways to stay out of town in August:

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

All Weekend

• 📚 Annual Friends of the West Tisbury Library Book Sale at West Tisbury School, West Tisbury, 9a-3p / More Info / Free (half-price books Sunday).

• 🎓 HBCU Legacy Week on the Vineyard Celebrates 10 Years / More Info

• 🎨 Art En Blanc on the Vineyard at The Cottagers, Inc., Oak Bluffs, 10a-8p / More Info / Free

• 📖 Sankofa 2026 at Oak Bluffs Public Library, 10a-4:30p / More Info / (Sat too)

• 🎨 HBCU Arts Festival at Various locations, Various times / More Info (Sat+Sun)

Friday, July 31, 2026

• 🎬 MV Documentary Week at MV Film Society venues, last day / More Info

• 🎓 The Blueprint for HBCU Sustainability, Part II: Strategic Backing and Community Empowerment at Oak Bluffs Public Library, Oak Bluffs, 10-11a / More Info / Registration recommended

• 🎶 Australian Musician Bobby Alu Live at Behind the Bookstore, Edgartown, 11a-12p / More Info

• 🌅 Sunset Concert Series: The Dukes of Circuit Avenue at Trinity Park Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

• 🎨 Island Visions: Art Showcase + Marketplace at The Strand Theatre, Oak Bluffs, 6-10:30p / More Info / $25
  Live performances, vendors, music and panel conversations in support of a local community member recently released from ICE detention.

• 🎼 Concert Celebrating Joy, Justice and Resilience at Old Whaling Church, Edgartown, 7:30-9p / More Info / $20 suggested
  Composer Mark Miller and singer Julian Wamble will perform original art songs featuring Black poets.

Saturday, August 1, 2026

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at MV Agricultural Hall, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info

• 🚙 Vineyard Series Vintage Land Rover Show at Nomans, Oak Bluffs, 9-11a / More Info
  The show features more than 70 vintage Land Rovers from around the country, plus breakfast and live music.

• 🛍️ Annual MVCMA Craft and Artisan Fair at MVCMA Tabernacle, Oak Bluffs, 9a-2p / More Info / Free
  The rain-or-shine fair features handmade art, jewelry, pottery, textiles, food products and other goods from new and returning vendors.

• 🎨 Artists’ Premiere: Jennifer Christy & Jhenn Watts at Field Gallery, West Tisbury, 4-6p / More Info

• 🎭 Serendipity: The Musical at Vineyard Arts Project, Edgartown, 5-6p / More Info / Pay what you can

• 📷 Matt Cosby Greatest Hits Photo Show at The Workshop Gallery, Vineyard Haven, 5-7p / More Info

• ⚾ MV Sharks vs. TBA at Shark Tank at MVRHS, Oak Bluffs, 6:35p / More Info

Sunday, August 2, 2026

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• 👩🏾 The Black Moms Fair at Chilmark Community Center, Chilmark, 12-4p / More Info / $149

• 🌱 Slough Farm Tour at Slough Farm, Edgartown, 12:30-1:30p / More Info / Registration required

• 💐 Family Flower You Pick at Slough Farm, Edgartown, 4-6p / More Info / Registration required; Sundays through Aug. 30

• 📚 Author Talk: Maggie Haberman — Regime Change at MV Performing Arts Center, Oak Bluffs, 7-8:30p / More Info / $95

• 🎬 Harvest Film + Live Discussion at MV Film Center, 7:30p / More Info / Tickets required

• 🎤 Community Sing at Tisbury Amphitheater, 5-6p / More Info / Free

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / Free

Read more

There are already several excellent organizations doing the work of tracking Island farms, sharing what is currently available, and helping people cook with local ingredients. Rather than recreate those resources, this guide brings the best ones together in one place.

🌱 Start with the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society Farm Map + Passport

The Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society maintains an online directory of more than 40 Island farms, farmers markets, oyster farms, flower growers and other local food producers.

You can search the directory by town, season, product, and type of farm. Listings include farm stand locations, available products, payment information, seasonal hours, tours, classes, CSA programs, and other ways to visit or purchase directly.

The Agricultural Society also offers a physical Farm Passport booklet that encourages people to visit participating farms and markets around the Island. Pick up a passport at many of the farms or libraries, collect stamps as you explore, and turn it in for a prize after completing the required number of visits. No purchase is required to receive a stamp, making it a fun way to learn about Island agriculture even when you are not shopping at every stop.

🥕 Use to See What Is Fresh

Knowing where the farm stands are is only part of the equation. Figuring out what to make with everything you bring home is where Cook the Vineyard comes in.

Cook the Vineyard is a year-round Substack newsletter focused on cooking with ingredients from Martha’s Vineyard farms and fish markets. Each issue highlights what is currently in season and shares recipes designed around what is fresh and locally available. The newsletter also maintains a weekly list helpful running list of farm stand, farmers market, and seafood market schedules.

For more ideas, look for The Martha’s Vineyard Cookbook, the Sea Table books, and other Island cookbooks available through local libraries. They are great resources for learning more about Vineyard ingredients, seafood, food traditions, and seasonal cooking.

🧺 Visit the West Tisbury Farmers Market

Only on Martha’s Vineyard for a week? The West Tisbury Farmers Market is one of the easiest ways to shop from a variety of Island farms and food producers in one place.

The market is held at the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society grounds at 35 Panhandle Road in West Tisbury. During the summer, it takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9a–12p, rain or shine. The Saturday market continues into the fall.

Vendors vary throughout the season, with offerings that may include vegetables, fruit, flowers, meat, eggs, baked goods, prepared foods, preserves, honey, seafood, and other locally made products. The market also accepts SNAP and HIP.

The Edgartown Village Market is another seasonal option for shopping from local farmers and makers. It takes place behind the Dr. Daniel Fisher House in Edgartown on Tuesdays during the summer. Its central location makes it especially convenient for visitors staying downtown or anyone who cannot make it up-Island for the West Tisbury Farmers Market.

📦 Join a Martha’s Vineyard CSA

A Community Supported Agriculture program, usually called a CSA, allows members to pay in advance for a share of a farm’s seasonal harvest. Some programs provide a traditional weekly box, while others offer flexible credits, sliding-scale pricing, flowers, meat, eggs, bread, or other options. Shares can be a good fit for people who cook regularly and are comfortable planning meals around what is currently growing.

I wrote a full roundup of Martha’s Vineyard CSA and CSA-style programs for Blue Dot Living’s Green Guide. The guide includes confirmed 2026 offerings, season dates, pickup information, pricing, and details about what each share includes.

👩‍🍳 Take a Farm Cooking Class

Several Island farms and organizations offer cooking classes that help participants make better use of seasonal ingredients. The FARM Institute offers educational programs throughout the year, including hands-on cooking classes, farm-based activities, family programming, and seasonal workshops.

Slough Farm also hosts cooking classes, community programs, residencies, and events focused on food, farming, creativity, and sustainability. Many focus on techniques people can continue using at home, including cooking with what is currently available, using unfamiliar vegetables, and reducing food waste.

Island chefs including Jenny DeVivo also teach classes centered on fresh ingredients and thoughtful, low-waste cooking.

🌻 Look Beyond the Farm Stand

Many Martha’s Vineyard farms now offer much more than produce shopping.

Morning Glory Farm, Beetlebung Farm, Island Grown Initiative, North Tabor Farm, and other Island farms have expanded their seasonal programming to include experiences such as:

• Farm tours

• Cooking and ingredient-focused classes

• Educational workshops

• Community events

• Farm dinners

• Seasonal meals

• Pick-your-own opportunities

• Children’s programming

Offerings change throughout the year, so it is best to check directly with each farm before visiting. These programs are a great way to better understand where Island food comes from and the amount of work involved in growing, harvesting, preparing, and distributing it.

Island Grown Initiative operates a regenerative farm and offers seasonal CSAs, educational programs, food-access initiatives, and farm tours by reservation. It is an important resource for learning more about Martha’s Vineyard’s food system and supporting wider access to Island-grown food.

I round up each of these options in MVacay’s weekly events newsletter in the Save the Date section.

📍 A Few Tips Before You Go

Do not assume a farm is open for general public access. Some farms welcome visitors, while others distribute through CSAs, retailers, events, or scheduled programs only.

When visiting a self-service stand, follow posted instructions and pay carefully. These small operations depend on an honor system. Bring more than one payment method when possible. Smaller stands may accept only cash, checks, or Venmo.

Start with the Agricultural Society’s farm map, use Cook the Vineyard to plan what to cook, visit a farmers market, take a class, or stop at a farm stand while exploring the Island. Have fun!

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

The Dining Guide is updated for 2026 (I hope you don’t look too closely, I swapped some out) You’ll never hear me give a bad review, but lots of positive personal experiences. More recent faves behind the paywall below today too.

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, July 24, 2026

• 🛍️ Roller Rabbit Pop-Up at The Shop by WHEAT, 9a-5p thru Sun / More Info
  Shop Roller Rabbit’s limited-edition Monkey on the Vineyard collection and new summer arrivals. Friday and Sunday include beverages from Wheat Store Cafe and treats from The Sweetish Fish, while Saturday features Mad Martha’s ice cream.

• 📚 Library Friends of Oak Bluffs Book Sale at Oak Bluffs Public Library, 10a-4p / More Info / (Sat too)

• 🦪 Chilmark Community Trust: Shellfish, Science & Shucking at The Yard, 1-3p / More Info

• 🎬 An Evening with Dawn Porter at MV Museum, 5p / More Info

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series: Alwyn Robinson at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

• 🎭 An Evening of Magic, Illusion and Mind-Blowing Juggling at MV Film Center, 7p / More Info / $35 front section, $30 main section

• ⚾ Chilmark Resident Appreciation Night: MV Sharks vs. Ocean State Waves at MVRHS Shark Tank, 7:05p / More Info

• 🐉 The Hobbit at Katharine Cornell Theater, 7:30-9p / More Info / $20

Saturday, July 25, 2026

• 🎾 MV Open Tennis Tournament at Farm Neck Tennis and Vineyard Family Tennis, Fri 12-7p, Sat 8a-7:30p, Sun 8a-5p / More Info

• 🏃 Flutie 5K with Island Autism at West Tisbury School, 8:30-11a / More Info

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at MV Agricultural Hall, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info

• 📚 Vineyard Haven Library Grand Opening at Vineyard Haven Library, 10a-12p+
  Celebrate the library's newly renovated Main Street building with a ribbon cutting at 10a, a family concert by musician Tom Sieling at 11a, and cake and refreshments beginning at 12p.

• 🎪 Children’s Festival at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 10-11:30a / More Info
  Families can enjoy games, crafts, treats and activities designed especially for children. Game tickets may be purchased and exchanged for reward tickets and prizes.

• 🎠 Flying Horses Carousel 150th Birthday Party at Flying Horses Carousel and Union Chapel, 10a-5p / More Info
  The day includes an airbrush artist, scavenger hunt, DJ entertainment, lawn games, tie-dye demonstration, cornhole challenge, limbo contest and dance party, followed by a 4p birthday singalong. Prize giveaways take place every half hour at the carousel beginning at 10:30a.

• 🎨 Chappy Art Show and Artisan Fair at Chappaquiddick Community Center, 12-4p / More Info
  Meet Chappaquiddick artists and Island artisans during an afternoon fair on the center’s front porch.

• 🎤 Della Hardman Day at Ocean Park, 4-6p / More Info / Free
  Mara Brock Akil joins Dr. Farah Jasmine Griffin for a conversation centered on “Our Stories, Our Legacy,” the free community gathering honors artist, educator and civic leader Dr. Della Hardman.

• 🐾 Celebration of Pets at MV Agricultural Hall, 1-3p / More Info
  Community members are invited to bring pets from both farm and home.

• 📚 Author Talk: Washashores Review, Vol. 2 at Edgartown Public Library, 6-7p / More Info

• 🎶 Vineyard Sound Mid-Summer Show at Old Whaling Church, 7-9p / More Info

• ⚾ MV Sharks vs. North Shore Navigators at MVRHS Shark Tank, 7:05p

• ✨ Light Up the Lagoon at Lagoon Pond, 8:30-9:15p / More Info
  Watch illuminated boats travel from opposite ends of the pond while residents light the shoreline with lanterns and flashlights. Public viewing areas are available on both sides of the lagoon; the rain date is Sunday.

Sunday, July 26, 2026

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🥁 Weekly Museum Open House and Family Samba at Milokan Cultural Center and Drum Museum, 3-6p / More Info / $15 individual, $50 family of four or more
  Explore a collection of drums from around the world from 3-5p, followed by a participatory samba session at 5p. All ages and experience levels are welcome, and drums are provided.

• 🧘 Sound Bath with Anna Marden at Stillpoint, 4-5p / More Info / $20-$40 sliding scale

• 🎪 Chilmark Preschool Annual Family Festival at Beetlebung Campus Green, 4-6p / More Info / Free
  Enjoy live music by Wolftrap, Stoney Hill soft serve, glitter tattoos, games, bubbles and make-your-own oyster ornaments. The free community celebration is open to everyone, with an all-day dine-and-shop-to-donate fundraiser at the Chilmark General Store.

• 🎨 RISD Emerging: Recent Alums from Rhode Island School of Design Opening Reception at Featherstone Center for the Arts, 4-6p / Free

• 🎶 Emi Ferguson, Flute & Voice, with Pianist Jacob Rhodebeck at Old Whaling Church, 4-5:30p / More Info / $40

• 🎤 Community Sing at Tisbury Amphitheater, 5-6p / More Info / Free

• 📚 Freedom of Speech: Lee Bollinger and Jelani Cobb at MV Performing Arts Center, 7p / More Info

• 🎶 Potluck Jam 72 at Chilmark Community Center, 7-10p / More Info
  Bring a dish to share and your best energy for an evening of live music and community. The announced lineup includes Ben Taylor, Ryan Montbleau, Isaac Taylor, Lydia Fischer, the Woods School Singers and more.

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / Free

• 🎓 HBCU Legacy Week Begins / More Info

Read more

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

A reminder that if you’re looking for weekday fun, these are a great place to look:

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Thursday, July 16, 2026

• [AD] 🏡 The Cottagers, Inc. 39th Annual House Tour at Cottagers’ Corner, 57 Pequot Avenue, Oak Bluffs, 10a-3p / More Info / $85 day of event

  Tour several distinctive Oak Bluffs homes while supporting The Cottagers’ community programs and scholarships.

Friday, July 17, 2026

• 🛍️ Shopbop MV Pop-Up Shop at The Sydney Hotel, 22 Winter Street, Edgartown, 10a-6p daily (Fri-Sun) / More Info

  • Shop brands including PARKE, Flabelus, Hunza G, Hill House Home, FARM Rio, and STAUD in Shopbop’s first MV pop-up.

  • Friday features complimentary PARKE embroidery, Saturday offers Flabelus shoe charm customization, and Sunday includes Hill House Home monogramming.

  • Spend $25+ at any local business during the pop-up and show your receipt to receive a free Shopbop tote, while supplies last. Partnerships with locally owned businesses throughout the weekend.

• 📚 Chilmark Community Trust: Hidden History of MV with Thomas Dresser at The Yard, 1-3p / More Info

• 🎨 Away to See Book Celebration and Summer Raised II Art Exhibition at Eisenhauer Gallery, 5-8p / More Info

• 🌿 Manuel F. Correllus State Forest Bioblitz at Manuel F. Correllus State Forest Headquarters, 5p Friday-5p Saturday (Sat too) / More Info / Free - Register

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series featuring Phil DaRosa at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 6-7:30p / More Info / Free-will offering

• ⚾ Bollin Trucking and Excavation Night: MV Sharks vs. Ocean State Waves at Shark Tank, MV Regional High School, 7:05p / More Info

Saturday, July 18, 2026

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at MV Agricultural Hall, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info / Free

• 🏊 Swim Across America — MV Open Water Swim at Menemsha Beach, 8a / More Info / Register to swim

  Swimmers, volunteers, spectators, and supporters will gather to raise funds for cancer programs at Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at MV Hospital.

• ⛵ Catboats: Sail Sculpin Edgartown 2026 at Old Sculpin Gallery, 10a (Sun too) / More Info

  This multi-day celebration highlights catboats, local artists, maritime history, and special programming at the gallery.

  • 10a: Catboats, Captains, and Coffee

  • 1p: Parade of Sail with entertainment by Outermost Bateria

  • 2p: Mad Martha’s Ice Cream Social

  • 4-6p: Sail Sculpin 2026 Public Reception

• 🪶 19th Annual Native Artisan Market and Festival at Aquinnah Circle, 11a-4p (rain date Sun) / More Info / Free

  Native artists and craftspeople showcase their work alongside live music, food, and dancing. Registration is not required.

• 📷 Simon Gallery in Chilmark off Tabor House Road (follow sign), Chilmark, 11a-3p (Sun too) / More Info / Registration is not required

• 🫐 Berry Festival at First Congregational Church of West Tisbury, 12-4p / More Info

  Berry shortcakes, smoothies, parfaits, pies, lemonade, and raffle items will be available rain or shine.

• 🏺 Pottery and Oysters at Merry Farm Pottery, 2-5p / More Info

• 🌱 Building a Local Food Movement: Organic and Regenerative Ideas in Practice at MV Agricultural Hall, 5-6:30p / More Info / Free, registration helpful

  The conversation explores practical organic and regenerative approaches to strengthening local agriculture and food systems.

• 🇵🇹 Portuguese American Feast at Portuguese American Club, 5-10:30p / More Info

  Traditional food, music, dancing, and community festivities continue across both days, all are welcome.

• 😂 Laughing Matters 2nd Annual Comedy Fundraiser for Stillpoint at MV Performing Arts Center, 7-8p / More Info / $25-$65

  Bluebird Improv creates a fully unscripted show inspired by conversations with the audience, with proceeds supporting Stillpoint’s programs. Ticket purchase is required.

Buy Tickets for Laughing Matters #ad

Sunday, July 19, 2026

• 🙏 Womanists at the Inkwell 2026 at Union Chapel, 8a / More Info / Register

  The gathering includes worship, Bible study, keynote speakers, workshops, and fellowship centered on womanist theology.

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🇵🇹 Portuguese American Feast Parade in Downtown Oak Bluffs, 11:30a / More Info

• 🎶 Sundays in the Park Concert featuring Pat Law and ESP at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / Free

• 📖 Author Talk: Christin Geall — Flora Culture at Chilmark Community Center, 7-8:30p / More Info / $65 / Registration Required

Read more

⏱️ This Week on MVacay

I updated this guide for 2026 with all kinds of new information throughout:

I added a new Activity Category to my site, including this new experience (discount code inside!):

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

The Thursday Events today and next week look PACKED. MVacay Weekend Updates are Fri-Sun, but you can find Mon-Thurs events all behind the paywall for the coming week.

Friday, July 10, 2026

• Vineyard Cup Regatta and Fluke for Luke Tournament Weekend Begin

• 🪶 Chilmark Community Trust: Wampanoag Traditions with Brad Lopes at The Yard, 1:30-3:30p / More Info
  Create pinch pots and corn dolls while learning about Wampanoag traditions; open to all ages, bring your own picnic.

• 🎩 Magic Show with Daniel Jay at Katharine Cornell Theater, 5:30p / free
  A free, family-friendly magic show presented by Vineyard Haven Public Library; no tickets or reservations required.

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series: Mike Benjamin at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 6-7:30p / More Info / free-will offering

• 💃 Cirio Collective: Open Ground — Showing and Discussion at MV Performing Arts Center, 7-8:30p / More Info / donations accepted

• 🎬 Drive-In Movie: The Breakfast Club at The Vineyard’s Drive-In at the YMCA, 8:30p / More Info / pay-what-you-can ticketing, suggested $40 per car

Buy House Tour Tickets Here #ad

Saturday, July 11, 2026

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at MV Agricultural Hall, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info / Free

• 🛍️ Camp Ground Flea Market at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 9a-1p / More Info
  Browse antiques, furniture, pottery, books, jewelry, household goods and more.

• 🐓 Barnyard Buddies (age 2-5) at The FARM Institute, 9:30-10:30a / More Info / $25/non-member pair

• 🐟 Annual Seine Net Event at State Beach, Little Bridge, 10-11:30a / More Info / free
  Join Great Pond Foundation scientists to help discover and identify marine life caught in a beach seine.

• 🪧 Seawall Stand at Vineyard Haven Seawall (with CONNECT to End Violence), 10a-12p / More Info

• 🎵 Kids Music Time at West Tisbury Town Hall Playground, 10-10:30a / donation-based (Tuesdays too)

• 🐴 Misty Meadows Saturday Pony Rides at Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center, 10a-12p / More Info / $30 registration required

• 🎭 The Fabulists at Tisbury Amphitheater, 10a / More Info / suggested $10 for adults, $5 for kids

• 🐐 Goat Yoga MV at Native Earth Teaching Farm, 11a-12p / More Info / $30 registration required

• 🇺🇸 Presidents for Kids at The Carnegie: Exploring Leadership & History at The Carnegie, 12-4p / More Info / free

• 🪶 An Introduction to Nôepe History – What is the Wampanoag history of MV? at Oak Bluffs Public Library, Downstairs Meeting Room, 12-2p / More Info

• 📚 One Book, One Island: Discussion of David McCullough’s 1776 at West Tisbury Public Library, 3-4p / More Info / free

• 🎶 The Variety Show for Island Elderly Housing at Featherstone Center for the Arts, 6-8p / More Info / $125

Buy Tickets for Laughing Matters #ad

Sunday, July 12, 2026

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🎭 Merrily We Roll Along with James Lapine at MV Film Center, 4p / More Info / $18 general admission, $12 child
  Screening of the Broadway musical production followed by a Q&A with playwright/director James Lapine.

• 🎶 Sundays In The Park Concerts at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / free + Vineyard Haven Band Concert At Ocean Park at 7:30

• 📚 Author Talk: Tayari Jones at MVPAC, 7-8:30p / More Info / $75
  Tayari Jones discusses her novel Kin in conversation with journalist Michele Norris.

• ⚾ Edgartown Resident Appreciation Night + Hat Giveaway at MV Sharks at Shark Tank: MVRHS, 7:05p / More Info
  Cheer on the MV Sharks as they take on the Danbury Westerners, with a hat giveaway for Edgartown Resident Appreciation Night.

Read more

I went solo, and several other people did too, so it felt very comfortable as an individual activity. It would also be a great class to take with a friend, partner, small group, or anyone who likes trying something new.

MV Glassworks has been around since 1992, and this year they are expanding their public workshop offerings. Here’s what to know before you go:

🧑‍🎨 About MV Glassworks

Martha’s Vineyard Glassworks was established in 1992 by Andrew and Susan Magdanz and has long been a working glass studio, gallery, and shop in West Tisbury. The space is both a place to browse finished glasswork and a working studio where artists and craftspeople create, experiment, and share the craft with the public. Attached to the shop are two galleries featuring MV Glassworks designs, rotating local artists, production pieces, and one-of-a-kind works.

Since Wil Sideman took over management in 2020, MV Glassworks has also focused on connecting more with the local community through education. During the off-season, they have worked with local schools and groups including West Tisbury School, Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School, and a local homeschool group through field trips, internships, and hands-on workshops.

🌈 The Fused Glass Coaster Class Experience

Fused glass is different from glassblowing. In this class, you cut, layer, and arrange pieces of glass into a design, and then MV Glassworks fires the final pieces in the kiln after class.

Learn the basics: Courtney started by showing us different ways to cut and shape glass, then walked us through examples and options before we began.

Design your coasters: Each person created their own two-coaster set using the materials provided. You could keep it simple, go abstract, make a pattern, or build something more personal.

Get help as you work: The class was independent enough to feel creative, but supported enough that you were never totally on your own. Courtney was there to coach, troubleshoot, and advise as we worked through our designs.

Pick up later: After class, MV Glassworks takes the pieces and fires them in the kiln. A few days later, you can return to pick up the finished coasters.

I went by myself, and so did several other people in the class, so I’d definitely recommend it as a solo activity. It would also be fun with a friend or two, especially if you like creative projects or want an activity that is not beach, shopping, or food-centered. You do not need to be artistic or experienced with glass to enjoy it.

🗒️ Visit Planning

Check directly with MV Glassworks for current class dates, hours, availability, and pickup timing.

• 📍 Location: 683 State Road, West Tisbury, MA 02575

• 🕒 Studio/Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10a-4p

• 💲 Class Pricing: Coaster Fusing Class is listed at $135

  ⭐️ Use code MVACAY for 10% off future workshops in 2026!

• ⏰ Class Length: 10a-1p for the listed coaster classes

• 🎨 What’s Included: Materials for two fused glass coasters

• 📅 Upcoming Dates: next class is August 9, based on current website listings

• 📞 Contact: 508-693-6026

• 💻 More Info: mvglassworks.com

• 📧 Email: info@mvglassworks.com

• 📍 Pickup: Finished pieces are fired after class and available for pickup a few days later. If you are visiting for a short trip, ask about pickup timing before booking or arrange shipping.

  

I loved that the class gave us enough instruction to feel capable, but enough freedom to make something personal. It was low-pressure, creative, and beginner-friendly, and I’d absolutely go back for another style of class if they continue expanding the workshop series.

MV Glassworks has been part of the island for a long time, and it is exciting to see them opening the studio experience to the public in this way. I’d love to see more classes added, especially year-round.

✅ More Creative Activities on Martha’s Vineyard

🗺️ What To Do This Weekend

Friday, July 3, 2026

• 🎣 Family Fishing at OB Fishing Pier, 9:30-11:30a / More Info

• 🫧 Bubble Fest at Oak Bluffs Public Library, 10-11a / More Info

• 🎨 First Friday Vineyard Haven at Downtown Vineyard Haven & Owen Park Beach, 10a-10:30p / More Info

  • 10a-2p: Daytime Art Market on Beach Street Extension, plus Art Hang at Althea Designs.

  • 12-4p: Live music and street performances around Beach Street Extension, Main Street, and Linden Tree Park.

  • 5-9p: Food trucks open at Owen Park. Live music at Owen Park Beach, including LooseFit, The Cut, Luke Dunlap, and Red Night Delight.

  • 9-10:30p: Silent DJ Party at Owen Park Beach with PathwaysARTS.

  • Downtown shops and galleries stay open late with gallery strolls, specials, and pop-ins throughout Vineyard Haven.

• 📚 Book Signing: A Weekend at Gramps ‘97 by Dave Mercaldo at Edgartown Books, 11a-1p / More Info
  Meet author and MVRHS alum Dave Mercaldo as he signs his nostalgic New England-set novel for middle grades.

• 🛍️ LoveShackFancy Pop-Up at The Charlotte Inn, 11a-4p / More Info (Sat too)

• 🎭 Seven Spools of Thread the Musical at The Strand Theatre, 2-4p / More Info

• 🎶 Joint Show: Vineyard Sound & Cape Harmony at United Methodist Church, 5p / More Info

• 🎶 Sunset Concert Series - Sean McMahon at Tabernacle, 6-7:30p / More Info

Saturday, July 4, 2026

• 🏊 Polar Bears of MV Celebrate 80th Anniversary at Inkwell Beach, 7:30-8:30a / More Info / free

• 🏃 Mike’s Run the Chop Challenge at Tisbury School, 8:45a / More Info

• 🥕 West Tisbury Farmers Market at MV Agricultural Hall, 9a-12p / More Info

• 🛍️ Chilmark Flea Market at Flea Market Field, Chilmark, 9a-2p / More Info / Free

• 🎉 Children’s Fourth of July Parade at MVCMA, 9-11a / More Info

• 🇺🇸 25th Annual Aquinnah 4th of July Parade at Moshup Trail and Aquinnah Circle, 10a-3p / More Info
  Decorate your vehicle, join the parade, and stick around for kids’ games, awards, music, and BBQ at the Vanderhoop Homestead.

• 🧵 Embroidery with Havenly at Erica Wilson, 10a-4p / More Info (Sun too)

• 🎺 Polar Bears Present Community Concert at Ocean Park, 3-5p / More Info / free

• 🎉 Fourth of July Parade at Downtown Edgartown, 5p / More Info

  • Parade steps off from Edgartown School at 5p sharp. Route begins at West Tisbury Road and Robinson Road, then continues through Main Street, Pease’s Point Way, Morse Street, Fuller Street, Thayer Street, North Water Street, and back up Main Street to finish at Edgartown School.

  • All downtown roads close at 4:15p; traffic is prohibited from accessing Lower Main Street and the north side of town.Parade-route traffic is prohibited from 4:30-7p, so plan for delays and arrive early. No public parking at Edgartown School or the Library; both are for parade staging only. Handicap parking is available on Pine Street.

  • Taking the VTA? During parade road closures, use the temporary Edgartown stops at Great Harbor Market/Curtis Lane, Edgartown Hardware, or South Water & High, depending on your route.

  • Chappy Ferry vehicle traffic is prohibited starting at 4:15p, though service continues for vehicles already in line on Simpson Lane and Daggett Street.

• 🎶 Fourth of July Patriotic Sing-Along at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 6:30p / More Info
  Join Vineyard Sound directly after the parade for the Star-Spangled Banner and a community sing-along.

• 🎵 Island Community Chorus Concert at Trinity Park Tabernacle, 7p / More Info

• 🎆 Fourth of July Fireworks at Edgartown Harbor, after dark / More Info

  • Fireworks begin after sunset, once it is completely dark. Best viewing is around Edgartown Harbor; the fireworks barge is moored north of the lighthouse, though it may be farther out depending on shorebird nesting.

  • North Water Street closes after the parade, with all vehicle access to North Water prohibited at 7:45p. Handicap parking is available in the EYC/Dock Street parking lot.

  • Taking the VTA for fireworks? Use Route 11 at Rockfish on North Water Street for pick-up/drop-off instead of Mayhew Lane; it’s the key downtown bus stop for getting out of Edgartown after the fireworks.

Sunday, July 5, 2026

• 🧹 Community Beach Cleanup & Trash Tally at State Beach in Oak Bluffs & Edgartown, 8-11a / More Info

• 🛍️ Oak Bluffs Open Market at Washington Park, 10a-2p

• 🎨 Vineyard Artisans Festival at Historic Grange Hall, 10a-2p / More Info

• 🏛️ Maintaining Our Sovereignty at Aquinnah Cultural Center, 11a-4p / More Info
  Visit the Wampanoag History Museum’s rotating exhibition centering contemporary Aquinnah Wampanoag sovereignty, history, and survivance (Fri+Sat too)

• 🧘 Restorative Sound Journey at Peaked Hill Studio, 4-5:15p / More Info / $30-$45
  Relax with a restorative sound bath using Himalayan and crystal singing bowls, monochords, chimes, and other instruments.

• 🎨 Art in the Park | Vineyard Cottages Reception at PA Club, 5-7p / More Info /
  Don’t miss the Auction After Party featuring art, community, and summer celebration at the PA Club.

• 🎶 Sundays In The Park Concerts at Ocean Park, 5:30-7:30p / free

Read more

The three most common answers I heard were Back Door Donuts, Menemsha sunsets, and Jaws Bridge. To an extent, I agree. What used to feel like a best-kept secret now often comes with long waits, crowds, and more planning. They were all once beloved by locals, found by the internet, and now they’re things many islanders have complicated feelings about.

That’s why an islander probably isn’t telling friends to visit in August, or sending them to Nomans on a Friday night in July when parking is a nightmare. They know the best of the island is often felt when you have a little more breathing room. Some of the most popular things on MV are popular for a reason. But popularity changes an experience.

Each June when the “Best of the Vineyard” votes are announced, I get a sinking feeling that what the masses vote for as the “best” doesn’t always feel true to what is best to my family.

Here are a few things that feel underhyped to me, that may resonate with you:

🛍️ Vineyard Haven Shopping

When visitors come and spend the day doing a shopping haul with their girlfriends, they usually end up in Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. But Vineyard Haven’s independently owned shops are incredible. I’ve never found a kitchen store I love as much as LeRoux, I’ve never found a shoe store with friendlier attendants than Green Room. Nantucket’s Hospital thrift has nothing on the deserving Chicken Alley. Do NOT skip this.

🌅 Walks on East Chop

I see 20x more pictures of Edgartown Lighthouse than I do of East Chop Light and it’s always boggled my mind. What a stunning walk to get there, what a picturesque view of the ferry arriving, and what a quiet escape from the crowds.

🥣 Ferry Chowder

Hundreds of locals agree that the ferry chowder is not to be skipped. No one said it was homemade, but it’s better fare than anyone would expect from a moving vehicle.

🌿 Mytoi Gardens

Rent a bike, take the car ferry, and bike your way to Mytoi on Chappaquiddick. The ride is perfectly flat, picturesque, and such a hidden gem. If you came to MV for a retreat, this is a quiet and stunning spot. Obviously, wear bug spray.

🧦 Permethrin Clothes

For every new CNN headline that’s released about ticks, I really can’t understand why we are spending so much time talking about tick bite prevention without talking more about permethrin-treated clothes. You can buy clothes that are already treated, or treat the clothes you already have for protection. We have Insect Shield socks, but if you enjoy spending time outdoors, this solution is wildly under-advertised.

🪨 The Rocks, Fossils, and Minerals on Up-Island Beaches

This is tricky because so many of the up-island beaches are private, and you can’t get close from the Cliffs Overlook, but boy do we take for granted how stunning the cliffs are. You can visit so many beaches on the East Coast and never see the stunning clay you see (but should not touch) at Lucy Vincent, Moshup or Squibnocket.

🌾 Farm Stands

Foodies talk a lot about restaurants, but MV farm stands are way better than what many restaurants have to offer. You should be going out of your way for the freshly grown food, fangirling over the locally made sausage, and stocking up on honey. Morning Glory, Beetlebung, North Tabor, Ghost Island, Norton Farm, Mermaid Farm are not stops you’ll find off-island in the way they’re ingrained to local culture here.

⛴️ Sunsets from the Ferry

What a beautiful place to enjoy the sunset. Book the sunrise or sunset boat. It’ll truly help you romanticize your whole life ❤️