Celebrating the Fourth of July on Martha’s Vineyard

Photo: David Welch

School is out and Martha’s Vineyard is the place to be. Thousands of visitors flock to the island this week to take advantage of the July 4th holiday and it promises to be another action packed can’t–miss event. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the beach or fun filled day around town, followed by a night of festivities, fireworks and more! Here’s what’s happening in honor of our Independence Day this year, come prepared with your stars and stripes and let’s cheer for the red, white and blue!

Photo: David Welch

Tuesday, July 2nd
Reading Frederick Douglass
Each year, Mass Humanities organizes readings of “The Meaning of the Fourth of July for the Negro,” a speech by the noted abolitionist Frederick Douglass, first delivered in 1852. A free community reading of this famous speech will be presented at the Federated Church in Edgartown, where Mr. Douglass spoke in 1857, as part of the Vineyard’s observance of Independence Day. All are invited to attend. ​

Photo: Mila Lowe

Thursday July 4th 
18th Annual Murdick’s Run the Chop 5 Mile Road Race
Murdick’s Run the Chop Challenge takes place every July 4th and has been in existence for 18 years. Over that time the 5-mile road race has raised over $100,000 for Youth programs on the island. This year’s race will benefit the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club. Schedule: 8:30am Fun Run for kids 12 and under, and 9:00am Classic 5 Mile Run the Chop. Register online here. 

Photo: David Welch

Kid’s Parade at the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs
Celebrate with a special July 4th parade by the kids! Children of all ages enjoy this annual patriotic celebration! Parade participants assemble on West Clinton Ave. prior to 10 am. Patriotic clothing and decorated bikes are encouraged. No motorized vehicles including motorized scooters or bikes are allowed due to safety concerns. Parade flows down Clinton Ave. and around Trinity Circle, ending by the MVCMA Cottage Museum. Followed by an ice cream social, free for all. 

Fourth of July Picnic 
Enjoy a classic Americana Fourth of July event at the Daniel Fisher House in Edgartown, provided by the Vineyard Trust. Bring the family, spread out your blanket, and indulge in a hearty meal while waiting for the annual parade to start. At 2pm the Bay State Band plays on the lawns of the Dr. Daniel Fisher House. At 5pm enjoy a picnic cooked up by Bill Smith’s Clambake on the lawn. ​

Photo: David Welch

Fourth of July Barbecue & Party 
The Harbor View Hotel offers a mouthwatering Barbecue Buffet featuring watermelon salad, baby back ribs, kobe beef hot dogs and more. Seatings available at 3pm, call the hotel at 508-627-3761 to reserve your spot. Capture your memories inside MV Photobus’ Volswagen photo booth and dance to live music from The Vine Shakers with Joanne Cassidy from 6pm to 10pm. Once the fireworks kick off enjoy one of the best views in town from the porch of the hotel!

Photo: David Welch

Four of July Parade
Celebrate the Fourth in historic downtown Edgartown with a parade full of fabulous floats, classic cars, old fashioned family fun, and of course candy. The parade kicks off at 5pm from the Edgartown school, following Peases’ Point Way downtown where it loops around joining Main Street and North Water Street. It then follows Main Street out of town returning to its starting point. For parade participation and additional details, please visit http://www.edgartown-ma.us/ or contact the Edgartown Selectman’s Office at 508-627-6180.

Photo: Peter Simon

Concert by the Vineyard Haven Band
The Vineyard Haven Band is a long standing marching band and a 150 year old tradition on the island. Join them for a free concert at the Old Whaling Church at 7pm, following the annual parade in downtown Edgartown. ​

Photo: Nicole Freidler

Fourth of July Fireworks
The annual Fourth of July fireworks starts at dusk on the Edgartown harbor. This spectacular display has been delighting visitors and locals alike for years. Enjoy a great view along the water in downtown Edgartown or Chappaquiddick.