A Guide to Social Distancing on Martha’s Vineyard

This summer on Martha’s Vineyard might look a little different from others, but there’s still plenty to do and enjoy safely. Given the nature of our small Island community, our resources are inherently limited, and we are taking necessary precautions and social distancing very seriously to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors. To comply with social distancing guidelines, people are finding new (and safe) ways to have fun and make the best of this unprecedented season.

Keeping you informed for MV Summer 2020
 Heading into one of our bustling downtowns? Expect a few changes: Edgartown has blocked off several parking spots and sections of streets to accommodate more outdoor seating at restaurants including The Port Hunter, The Wharf, Rockfish and The Atlantic. This allows more tables distanced to comply with social distancing guidelines. Be prepared - masks are required when walking through Edgartown.
 
Moving along to Oak Bluffs, where the ‘MV Masquerade’ is held on Sundays. Every week, Circuit and Kennebec avenues (the main “drags” located just steps from the harbor and the Steamship Authority’s Oak Bluffs ferry terminal) are closed to car traffic, allowing pedestrians to safely walk the streets, while shops and restaurants utilize sidewalk space. To maximize safety, masks are required as you walk through town, and social distancing is in effect - the same as is true for Vineyard Haven.

What to do?
Although movie theaters are limiting their offerings this summer, the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival teamed up with the local YMCA to open up the Vineyard’s Summer Drive-In. The drive-in is giving us serious retro vibes and allows for socially-distanced, friendly outdoor entertainment. Thus far the series has featured summer favorites including Jaws, Finding Nemo, Moana and The Wizard of Oz, with more hit movies scheduled through the summer. Tickets are pay-what-you-can and benefit the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival, the YMCA, the Island Food Pantry and the Vineyard House.  Additionally, The Martha's Vineyard Film Society has partnered with Featherstone Center for the Arts for Tuesday night movie nights outdoors on their beautiful campus.
 
The West Tisbury Farmers Market, another summer favorite, has also seen adjustments in order to comply with social distancing guidelines. The market has relocated to the Ag Hall this summer, allowing more space for market-goers to safely browse through their favorite local vendors. The stands are organized in a circular formation and shoppers are required to follow the clockwise walking directions for extra safety. The West Tisbury Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday from 9am to 12pm.