The holiday season on Martha’s Vineyard brings an abundance of fall fun and cozy winter celebrations. Whether you’re looking to embrace autumn or bask in the glow of festive lights, there’s no shortage of holiday events on Martha’s Vineyard to delight in these next few months. Grab your scarf, sip some hot cider, and let’s dive into the season’s can’t-miss events!
As the island’s autumn colors fade, Martha’s Vineyard transitions into full holiday mode in November. With cozy traditions, festive shopping, and annual events, there’s plenty to get you in the holiday spirit!
Barn Raisers Ball: Saturday, November 2nd, 7:00-10:00 PM
Join the fun at the Barn Raisers Ball at the Agricultural Hall in West Tisbury. This beloved annual event celebrates the 1994 construction of the Ag Hall barn, built by over 300 community members. Thirty years later, the Vineyard community still comes together to celebrate! Enjoy live music by Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, dance the night away, and bring your own refreshments (BYOB). Don’t forget to contribute to the dessert potluck and come ready to mingle with friends and neighbors—this is a can’t-miss local tradition!
Featherstone Holiday Gift Show: November 12th – December 15th, 12:00-4:00 PM Daily
- (Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Looking for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts? The 22nd Annual Featherstone Holiday Gift Show is your go-to destination for handmade treasures. From pottery to photography, jewelry to knitwear, the island’s talented artists have crafted beautiful items for everyone on your list. This vibrant market is perfect for supporting local artists while finding unique holiday gifts. Plus, you’ll be supporting Featherstone and the local arts community in the process!
Oak Bluffs Turkey Trot: Thanksgiving Day 7:00-8:00 AM
Start your Thanksgiving Day with a burst of energy at the Oak Bluffs Turkey Trot. The morning run around town has become a tradition for locals and visitors alike. Registration is at the Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Co. Whether you’re racing to win or simply jogging to make room for turkey later, this event is all about fun and community spirit.
42nd Annual Felix Neck Fall Festival: November 29
Head over to Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary the day after Thanksgiving for the 42nd Annual Fall Festival, a family-friendly event featuring hayrides, face painting, live music, and nature-based crafts. It’s a perfect way to get outside and enjoy the crisp fall air while learning about the island’s natural beauty.
Artisans Thanksgiving Weekend Festival: November 29th and 30th 10:00am to 4:00pm
The Thanksgiving weekend brings with it the annual Vineyard Artisans Festival at the Ag Hall in West Tisbury. This event showcases the best in island craftsmanship, from handmade leather goods to fine jewelry, pottery, and more. It’s the ultimate one-stop shop for holiday gifts, offering visitors a chance to meet the talented artists behind these creations.
Light Up Oak Bluffs Tree Lighting Ceremony: November 30th, 6:00 PM
The holiday season officially begins with Light Up Oak Bluffs, an all day holiday event in Oak Bluffs. Gather with the community in Post Office Square at 6:00 PM to watch the Tree Lighting Ceremony, where the tree comes to life with twinkling lights, and Santa himself makes a grand entrance at 6:30 PM. There’s fun for the whole family, including cookie decorating, carriage rides, and photos with Santa. It’s a magical evening filled with holiday cheer. Be sure to visit the Oak Bluffs Association website for more details on the festivities.
Small Business Saturday: November 30th
Support local businesses and check off your holiday shopping list on Small Business Saturday. Shops all over the island participate, offering special deals, promotions, and the chance to find something truly unique while supporting the island economy.
Holiday Events on Martha’s Vineyard: A Very Vineyard Holiday
The holiday spirit is in full swing on Martha’s Vineyard throughout December! With festive markets, holiday shopping, and seasonal activities, the island offers plenty of ways to make your holiday season merry and bright.
A Very Vineyard Holiday: All Month Long
Throughout December, the island celebrates A Very Vineyard Holiday, with festive events, light displays, and opportunities to shop locally. From holiday markets to cozy gatherings, there’s something to do each weekend leading up to Christmas.
Featherstone Holiday Gift Show: December 1-15, 12:00-4:00 PM
If you haven’t had the chance to stop by the Featherstone Holiday Gift Show, now’s the perfect time to find the perfect handmade gifts for friends and family. The show runs daily through December 15th, and it’s a great way to support local artists while finding unique, island-inspired gifts for the holiday season.
First Friday: December 6
A special holiday edition of First Friday Vineyard Haven takes place on December 6th, continuing the community-inspired tradition that celebrates local art and culture. This free outdoor event offers live music, local food, and crafts, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the holiday spirit while supporting Vineyard artisans. Fun holiday crafts will be available, adding an extra festive touch. Be sure to check the website for location details and updates!
Christmas in Edgartown: December 12-15
One of the island’s most beloved holiday traditions, Christmas in Edgartown is a weekend-long celebration packed with holiday cheer. From shopping specials and open houses to the famous Christmas Parade, the streets of Edgartown come alive with festive energy. Whether you’re enjoying carriage rides, tree lightings, or simply soaking up the seasonal magic, this weekend promises to be a highlight of the holiday season! Here’s a closer look at some of the events:
- Lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse: This charming annual ceremony takes place at 5:30pm on Friday December 13th to kick off the weekend! You can watch from the Memorial Wharf, or head out to the beach!
- Hospice Handmade from the Heart: As part of Christmas in Edgartown, be sure to visit Hospice Handmade from the Heart, where you’ll find handmade holiday treasures created by local artisans. All proceeds benefit Hospice & Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard, making this a perfect opportunity to shop for meaningful gifts while supporting a wonderful cause.
- The Teddy Bear Suite: Entering its 14th enchanting year in 2024, the Martha’s Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite (brought to you by us here at Point B / Compass) is a fundraiser for the Martha’s Vineyard Boys And Girls Club. To date the fundraiser has generated over $423,000 for this important cause! Stay tuned for details for this year’s event!
Vineyard Artisans Holiday Festival: December 21st 10:00am to 4:00pm
The holiday shopping fun continues with the Vineyard Artisans Holiday Festival on December 21st. This one-day event brings together some of the island’s finest artisans to offer unique, handcrafted gifts. From jewelry to paintings, textiles to pottery, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list.
As the year comes to a close, Martha’s Vineyard offers an enchanting array of holiday events that capture the magic of the season. From spooky Halloween parades and community harvest festivals to holiday markets, artisan showcases, and the twinkling lights of tree ceremonies, the island is the perfect place to celebrate with family and friends. Whether you’re shopping local, enjoying festive food, or soaking in the holiday spirit at one of the many events, there’s no shortage of ways to create lasting memories. Make the most of this holiday season on Martha’s Vineyard—it’s a time of warmth, community, and celebration like no other.
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