the vineyard blog

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Thursday, December 12th through Sunday, December 15th, the town of Edgartown, located “down Island” on Martha’s Vineyard, is hosting their 38th Annual Christmas in Edgartown.
 
Voted Best of the Vineyard for the fifth year in a row, Christmas in Edgartown is a 4-day festival you don’t want to miss! Every year through the various events, Christmas in Edgartown helps raise over $50,000 for Island-wide charities and nonprofits. It’s really a community-driven event that is filled with holiday cheer for all - and the money raised helps everyone in the community have a merrier holiday season. 
 
Over 100 Edgartown and Island businesses participate in the weekend festivities, events are listed on the Christmas in Edgartown website - come be a part of the holiday magic! What’s great is that HyLine is running a High Speed Ferry direct to Edgartown from Hyannis for Christmas In Edgartown, so make sure to check out that schedule and enjoy the fun and merriment. The Steamship Authority will be running their regular service from Woods Hole, so that’s another option. Maybe you’ll see Santa and some reindeer on the ferry this year? 

Don’t Miss These Signature Christmas in Edgartown Events!

Late Night Lights on Main Street: Let evening shop lights entice you in during Christmas in Edgartown Late Night Lights on Main. To kick-off Christmas in Edgartown, stores will be open until 8 pm on Thursday for you to focus on holiday shopping before the busy weekend of festivities begin. Come early, stay late, and hop between parties, sales, discounts with a drink or appetizer in between.

Kick off Christmas in Edgartown with Rockland Trust! A traditional kick off to Christmas in Edgartown, the Rockland Trust Party is not to be missed. Come join us for delicious bites, wine, cheese, music and giveaways. Please call 508-627-7038 with your questions.

Martha's Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite: Join Point B Realty in celebrating their ninth enchanting year. The Martha’s Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite Fundraiser is a magical holiday tradition where family memories are made, and the money raised goes to help the Martha’s Vineyard Boys and Girls Club. Each year, our family of bears, dressed in holiday splendor, bring the magic of the season to all those who visit. Suggested donation of $5 benefits the Martha's Vineyard Boys & Girls Club.  Please call 508-627-4567, ext 807 with questions.

Lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse: Don’t miss this time-honored tradition!  Edgartown’s version of a tree lighting is full of seaside village charm. The magical event is brought to you by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Viewing festivities will be hosted by the Harbor View Hotel.

Donaroma’s Joy to the World! After the summer sun and brilliant shades of autumn have passed, we celebrate the holidays with our Evening of Enchantment, a stroll through our magically decorated Donaroma’s Nursery and Garden Store. This year we have the pleasure to celebrate “Joy to the World” with our beautiful community. Come join us for a few wondrous hours for the whole family to enjoy and capture the spirit of the season. Donations benefit the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club.

Holiday Cocktail Party at the Dr. Daniel Fisher House: Enjoy fine libations and passed hors d’oeuvres at the historic Dr. Daniel Fisher House. Ticket price $75 per person (21+) Tickets purchased after December 1st may be picked up at the Dr. Daniel Fisher House. Please contact the Vineyard Trust for details: 508-627-4440.

27th Annual Christmas in Edgartown Art and Crafts Festival: This year's annual Holiday Art and Crafts Festival will again be showcasing the work of over 40 Island artists and craftspeople. Free parking on site. Come take care of all your holiday shopping. Food is available and parking is free. Benefiting Edgartown School 8th grade class trip to Washington DC. For questions about the event or how to be a vendor, please call Fran at 508-560-6721.

Plum Hill School Annual Elves Faire: Crafts, Decorate a Gingerbread House, Silent Auction, Holiday Gifts, Delicious Hot Food and Drink. Proceeds benefit the Plum Hill School. Please email michelle@plumhillschool.com with questions.

Christmas in Edgartown Parade: Not quite the 4th of July, but it is a strong runner-up! Join the fun to see floats, animals, music, dancers, kids, fire engines, and of course Santa. The parade will take place on Main Street between Peases’ Point Way and Water Street.

The 35th Annual Great Chowder Contest: The Great Chowder Contest crowns the best clam chowder and the best seafood chowder made on Martha's Vineyard.  Under the tent on Winter Street in Edgartown, more than a dozen professionals, restaurants and individuals vie for the title of best clam or best seafood chowder. Admission is $10 per person which entitles you to a sample of each of these delicious chowders. All benefits from ticket sales go to The Red Stocking Fund. Online ticket sales here.

MVRHS Minnesingers Concerts at the Old Whaling Church: $15 per adult, $10 seniors & students. Children 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult but must have a physical Free Ticket for admittance. Tickets available for purchase after Thanksgiving at The Carnegie (Edgartown), Alley's General Store (West Tisbury), Leslie’s Pharmacy (Vineyard Haven), Our Market (Oak Bluffs) or at the door. Please call 508-627-4440 with your questions.

Teddy Bear Trot Holiday 5K Run & Walk: The Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club, in conjunction with Point B Realty, is happy to be sponsoring the 5th Annual Teddy Bear Trot 5K and Fun Run, part of the Martha's Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite, as well as the Christmas in Edgartown festivities. Awards will be given for age groups, as well as festive dress. Participants of all ages and levels are encouraged to participate and dress as festively as possible. Dogs and strollers are welcome! To register today, click here. Entrance fee is $25 for pre-registration, and $30 race day. Kids' fun run registration is $10. All proceeds go to the Club’s Happy Healthy Kids program, an after-school program which provides free food to hundreds of Island children each week and is the focus of the Martha's Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite fundraiser. This year, the Teddy Bear Suite has a fundraising goal of $45,000, which will underwrite the Health Happy Kids program. Join us for this cornerstone event of Christmas in Edgartown weekend! For information, visit https://mvteddybearsuite.com/.

Photos: Joshua Robinson-White, Vineyard Lights

The Martha's Vineyard Oyster Fest celebrates all things seafood, with something for everyone. Meet local oyster growers, gatherers, chefs, sommeliers, brewers, and mixologists as they share what they love to do. Eat local seafood, drink fine wine and local brews, groove to live music, learn about the superpowers of oysters. Let it all go, with fellow merrymakers, for some real good, salty fun. Tickets on sale here. 

The festival will take place on May 8th and 9th, 2020, at the new Martha’s Vineyard Museum in Vineyard Haven. We caught up with one of the founders of the Oyster Festival, Nevette Previd, and asked her a few questions about her oyster loving life!

What is it about oysters and the shellfish industry that excites you the most? 
Oysters/Shellfish have superpowers! And, a trifecta of positive impact. They are a delicious, healthy, versatile protein source, they work to mitigate the effects of humans and climate change on our local waters and have played a positive role in improving the local economy of the Island via the boom of oyster farming. Amazing! 

 It's an oyster and wine festival - so tell us, what would be your ideal wine for Island oysters? 
My obvious, ideal wine for oysters is Veuve Clicquot (anytime really). I also love Naissance Sauvignon Blanc from Jackson Family Wines or any Rosé. According to my co-producer John Clift, sommelier, and owner of MV Vintage Wines - Muscadet makes for a 'heavenly pairing' that makes oysters 'dance.' For fried or cooked oysters, my go-to is Brewer Clifton Chardonnay. 

 Did you grow up eating oysters? Can you recount an early oyster experience you had?
No! But my son has downed raw oysters and clams like a champ since he was two years old. My first experience with oysters was when I lived in London. On one fateful day, under a little friendly prodding from friends, I tried raw oysters, escargot, steamers, and sushi - and I never looked back.

Fun That Fuels the Future
The Martha’s Vineyard Oyster Fest (MVOF) is a mission-based festival that aims to drive long-term local, regional, and national awareness of Martha's Vineyard and Massachusetts-farmed oyster and native fish profiles.

Founded by Nevette Previd of Farm.Field.Sea., the Martha's Vineyard Shellfish Group (MVSG), and John Clift of the MV Wine Festival and purveyor of Vintage MV Wine & Spirits and 19 Raw, the festival gathers oyster farmers, the who’s who in the beverage industry, the area’s best chefs, and a fantastic cadre of special guests, to celebrate the bounty from the sea.

They aim to quench the ever-growing appetite for a cultural event that marries food, wine, education, and music. They hope guests take away a deeper understanding of this incredible class of mollusks, Bivalvia—their culinary versatility, health benefits, and real, positive environmental and ecosystem impact.

A portion of the MVOF proceeds will go to the Martha’s Vineyard Shell Recovery Partnership. This MVSG program reduces and recycles shell waste on the Island, provides a local source of shell for shellfish restoration, and improves shellfish production, which in turn improves local water quality. All shells from the MVOF will be recycled through this program.

Make sure to check out ticket sales online here and start planning your bivalve adventure to Martha’s Vineyard next May 2020!

It’s fall on Martha’s Vineyard and with the seasons changing, so do restaurant menus. Today, we’re getting really hungry by sharing “The Most Delicious Fall Restaurant Dishes on Martha’s Vineyard!"
When you think of the Fall season on Martha’s Vineyard and most of New England, you think of warm, grounding foods that take the chill off because, as we all know, the warmer temperatures aren’t around anymore and we’re trying to stay as cozy as possible. 

Alchemy
The Squash Soup with Pumpkin Seed, Aleppo Pepper, and Brioche Croutons is one that will warm you up from head to toe. It’s the ideal way to start a meal at this Edgartown restaurant, as it is light enough to indulge in. 

The Barn, Bowl, and Bistro
For those that want something healthy and fresh, but at the same time full of Fall flavors, this salad from the Barn is delightful: Brussels Sprouts and Kale Salad combine with red cabbage, candied pecans, dried cranberries and blue cheese crumbles tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.

Bettini Restaurant
Treat yourself to dinner at this gorgeous Edgartown restaurant and check out their new Fall menu. The coziest dish? The Braised Short Ribs, which are slowly coaxed to tenderness in red wine jus and served with the creamiest mashed potatoes and confit carrots. 

The Cardboard Box
Nothing says cozy and comfort like these crispy servings of buttermilk-ed, 1/2 fryer chickens with sweet cornbread cast iron skillet, luscious braised collards and a honey-chili butter that will have you licking your fingers!

Copper Wok
You might not think eggplant as a fall ingredient, but it’s actually in season until late October so we love that we can include it in this roundup. Head to Vineyard Haven and get the Garlic Eggplant from Copper Wok and you won’t be disappointed. Plus, garlic is a great ingredient to keep your immune system strong and healthy this time of year! 

The Fish House MV
With a tempting selection of grab and go items for dinner you can choose from local lamb or veggie shepherd’s pie, veggie or chicken pot pie, mac and cheese and lobster mac and cheese. All homemade, they are the perfect quick meal when you don’t have time to cook before the early winter darkness settles in right around 4 pm.

Life at Humphrey’s
Hungry for lunch? Try their Garden Harvest veggie sandwich! Roasted carrot purée, roasted butternut squash, red peppers, red onions, lettuce, cucumbers spread with an amazing cranberry goat cheese and topped with walnuts, this sandwich is healthy, filling, and bursting with textures. 

Lucky Hank’s 
On Upper Main Street in Edgartown is Lucky Hank’s, which you might think about for breakfast but, you’ll happily discover, serves up some amazing lunches and dinners as well. Check out its Morning Glory Farm Candy Roaster Squash and Roasted Garlic Soup with shredded Morning Glory Farm kale, Gala apple, toasted almonds, and a goat cheese crouton. What’s not to love?!

The Newes From America Pub
For those craving pasta, another great option is the Roasted Butternut Squash ravioli with sage cream, toasted pecans, and cider syrup from this historic Edgartown pub.

Town Bar & Grill
These Squash Ravioli are served with a luscious sage brown butter sauce and sprinkled with maple-bourbon soaked cranberries, Parmesan cheese, and candied walnut crumbs for some texture. The squash filling inside the ravioli is so creamy and delicious, you’ll want to order this one every time you visit!
 
Now, if you’re not looking to stay cozy but are still hungry, make sure to check out our other foodie blog posts linked below:
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST FRIED SEAFOOD ON MARTHA’S VINEYARD
FINDING THE BEST BURGER ON MARTHA’S VINEYARD
WHERE TO EAT THE BEST PIZZA ON MARTHA’S VINEYARD

Spending Thanksgiving on Martha’s Vineyard is a fun way for family and friends to reconnect on this quintessential American holiday. If you’re coming from the mainland, it’s a great holiday during which to spend some time on Island when it’s a bit more relaxed and calm, hotel rates are a tad lower and the overall energy of the Island is tranquil and serene. 
 
So for this year, forget about cooking at home and plan a family getaway to Martha’s Vineyard for Thanksgiving 2019. We’ve put together a delicious list of options, whether you want to dine out that day or order catered food to bring home to your vacation home or rental, we have it all! At the end of this blog post, we are also sharing a  hotel package designed especially for enjoying a leisurely holiday, so make sure to check it out!

Where Dine Out on Thanksgiving Day on Martha’s Vineyard
Bettini Restaurant at The Harbor View Hotel
Indulge in a Grand Buffet - $79 Adult │ $35 Children 12 and under--excluding tax and gratuity. Among the multiple offerings are:
Herb and Citrus Roasted Turkey, Classic Gravy, Cranberry Chutney;
Slow Baked New York Sirloin, Green Peppercorn, Sautéed Mushrooms;
Crispy Pork Belly, Dried Fruit Compote, Quince Glaze;
Roasted Salmon, Fall Root Vegetables, Hollandaise;
and a Rigatoni Bolognese Gratin,  Pesto, Parmesan
View full menu online here.
Call to make reservations: 508-627-3761

The Black Dog Tavern
Offering a Thanksgiving buffet ($46 for adults, $20 for kids) Enjoy all the fixin's of a homemade Thanksgiving dinner while taking in the extraordinary view of Vineyard Haven Harbor from the cozy Tavern. The traditional Thanksgiving buffet dinner includes: Fresh Herb-Roasted Turkey, Roasted Prime Rib, House-made Bread Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Candied Yams, Green Beans, Sweet Corn, Turkey Gravy, Cranberry Relish, Fresh Dinner Rolls, Bakery-made Pies & Desserts. Dinner seatings at Noon, 2pm & 4pm
Call to make reservations: 508-693-9223

l’etoile
Three seatings staggered from 1pm-7pm. Three courses; choice of two soups, four apps, three entrees (Turkey, Lobster or Venison) price based on entree.

Lucky Hank’s 
Three course meal, including turkey and the fixings. 
Call to make reservations: 508-939-4082
 
The Terrace at the Charlotte Inn
Offering a $99 pre fixe menu, treat yourself and the family to a luxurious dinner at the Island’s only Relais & Chateau property. 
Call to make reservations: 508-627-68227
 
Woods at Lambert’s Cove Inn
Woods will be doing a buffet style dinner 12pm-6pm, with the last seating at 6pm. Adults are $65 per person and kids are $20 per child. They will also start taking orders for catered dinners now through Wednesday, November 20th. Catered dinners can also be a la carte; these will be priced per-person as well and can accommodate all-sized parties. For your sweet tooth, they will be selling pumpkin and apple pies for $30, beginning on Friday, November 15th. 
Call to make reservations: 800-535-0272

Where to Get a Thanksgiving Meal - To Go - on Martha’s Vineyard 
Black Dog
Call to order: 508-693-4786
Menus and ordering at: www.theblackdog.com

Black Sheep Mercantile 
The menu at the Black Sheep looks delicious and offers the perfect variety of tasty items that you just to warm up and serve! Items like roasted leek dip, butternut gruyere scones, Boursin Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, and so much more to delight those at your table this year!
Call to Order: 508-338-7770

Golden Bull Brazilian Steak House
Order ahead to take out or dine in at the restaurant, open on Thanksgiving Day 11am-10pm with turkey added to the buffet.
Call to order: 508-338-7836
 
Kitchen Porch
Call to order: 508-645-5000
Menus and ordering at: kitchenporch.com

Life at Humphrey's
This Thanksgiving indulge in all those favorite 'sides that make Thanksgiving everyone's favorite holiday! From refreshing salad starters, classic stuffing recipes, veggies that are all dressed up for the festivities and on to turkey and desserts that will push the limits of your appetite, Life at Humphrey's offers a feast to remember without the fuss. Be sure to ask about special pricing if you're celebrating with a crowd.  Orders in by November 24th please!

Scottish Bakehouse
Order your catered meal from Scottish Bakehouse and dine on Kale & Brussels Salad; Mashed Island Root Veggies, The Good Farm island Raised Turkey and so much more!
Call to order: 508-693-6633
Menus and ordering at: scottishbakehousemv.com
 
Stay for the Long Holiday!
Book a luxurious 2019 Thanksgiving getaway with the Nobnocket Inn in Vineyard Haven and enjoy a three-night stay in a Luxury Grand guest room with king bed, gourmet breakfast every morning, a welcome glass of champagne, and a Thanksgiving celebration meal at Bettini in Edgartown.  Spend the days strolling the towns and discovering new shops and restaurants along the way, while being thankful to be on this gorgeous Island. To book, click here