Make the Season Bright
There's no place quite like Martha's Vineyard for the holidays! Imagine a winter wonderland with the backdrop of our beautiful Island, fewer crowds and even more charm. Our delightful local shops and inviting downtowns are decorated for the occasion, providing endless tidings of comfort and joy.
The winter is the perfect time to settle into a cozy accommodation, explore our beautiful trails and outdoor attractions, and dine in or take out from some of our best-loved year-round restaurants. Plus, the Island underneath a soft, pillow-y blanket of snow is an incredible sight to see!
Consider making a new tradition with a visit to Martha's Vineyard this holiday season, or return for a stay that you look forward to year after year.
If you love the idea of shopping small from your favorite Island businesses, cozying up beside a fire before bundling up for a winter walk along the beach while sipping hot chocolate and taking in the ocean views, then a visit to Martha's Vineyard this holiday season is for you! We hope you join us for the splendor and delight that awaits you during our magical Vineyard Holidays this year.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Experience the magic of the holiday season on Martha's Vineyard! This charming island transforms into a winter wonderland with festive events and activities for everyone to enjoy. From Christmas parades and lighting ceremonies to holiday markets and craft fairs, there's no shortage of cheer. Here's a look at some of the must-attend holiday events that will make your Christmas on Martha's Vineyard unforgettable.
- Christmas in Edgartown: A festive weekend featuring a parade, craft fairs, holiday shopping, and the lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse.
- Oak Bluffs Holiday Lighting: A magical evening with the lighting of Ocean Park and the town’s decorations, along with carol singing and hot cocoa.
- Gingerbread Cottage Tours: Explore the charming, decorated gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, often accompanied by holiday treats and hot beverages.
- Holiday Gift Show at Featherstone Center for the Arts: Find unique, handcrafted gifts from local artists and artisans.
- Annual Festival of Wreaths: Hosted by the Martha's Vineyard Museum, this event showcases beautifully crafted wreaths available for purchase.
- Christmas at the Whaling Church: Enjoy holiday concerts and performances in the historic Old Whaling Church in Edgartown.
- Holiday Craft Fair: A variety of craft fairs across the island where you can purchase handmade holiday gifts and decorations.
- Santa’s Workshop: A fun event for kids to meet Santa, create holiday crafts, and enjoy festive activities.
- Winter Farmers’ Market: Discover local produce, baked goods, and holiday treats perfect for your festive feasts.
- Holiday Inn Tours: Tour the beautifully decorated inns and hotels on the island, often accompanied by refreshments and live music
check back soon for 2024 dates and times
SHOPPING
No matter who you're shopping for this season, one of our Martha's Vineyard retailers has the perfect gift. From gifts for the outdoor and wellness aficionado, food lover, book lover, art lover, kids, and more, our helpful gift guides are sure to please. No matter your budget or taste, consider buying from one of our local small business owners this holiday and spread the love of Martha's Vineyard.
SHOP LOCAL FROM AFAR
Martha's Vineyard is home to hundreds of small businesses that always appreciate when you shop local. With no chain stores or malls, our local retailers offer distinctive, one-of-a-kind treasures for every style and taste, that make for cherished items that are reminiscent of this unique place.
If you're on Martha's Vineyard hit one of the main streets of Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs and Edgartown to safely shop your favorite boutiques and shops for both Island-made and Island found products this holiday. Don't miss Featherstone's Holiday Gift Show, offering locally made gifts.
If you're shopping from home see how you can give the gift of a Martha's Vineyard item or experience, from local gourmet products to hand blown glass ornaments to luxury clothing made from the fleece of our very own Island alpaca.
Another way to shop small is to donate to one of the many Island non-profits this holiday season in the name of someone special on your list. Many of our local non-profits offer online donations, where you can lend a hand from wherever you may be.
The Gift that Keeps on Giving
One of the things that makes the Vineyard such a special place is the people. The sense of community on Martha’s Vineyard is palpable and omnipresent, friends and neighbors come together in good times and bad and everyday there is tireless work being done on all fronts to preserve and protect our Island home and its inhabitants. Whether you’re a local, a part time resident or an occasional visitor and you’re in the giving spirit we know our local organizations would love your support.
Townwide Celebrations
LODGING
BOOK YOUR MARTHA'S VINEYARD HOLI-STAY!
Consider a stay at one of our local hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts many of which are offering holiday packages, and come with all of the amenities needed for a restful and relaxing stay.
Or how about having your own Martha's Vineyard vacation rental home all to yourself and those closest to you? Now's the time to get great deals on coastal retreats with water views and secluded up-Island homes nestled in the trees. If you’re looking to retreat to an Island hideaway this holiday, consider one of our charming Martha's Vineyard vacation rental homes for you and your closest family or friends to gather and celebrate the joy of the holidays.
Treat yourself to a relaxing stay at the award winning Nobnocket Boutique Inn, within walking distance of the Vineyard Haven Steamship Authority terminal.
The Harbor View Hotel - Oozing in luxury and history, the iconic Harbor View Hotel has won the hearts of Vineyard visitors for over 100 years.
Make yourself at home at the newly renovated FARAWAY MV hotel. Located right in the heart of downtown Edgartown, it's seaside luxury meets coastal cool.
The Edgar Hotel in Edgartown offers their own on-site restaurant Town with festive holiday events planned this season.
The Nobnocket Boutique Inn - This charming Vineyard Haven inn is located just a short walk from the Steamship Authority ferry terminal and was recently recognized by Condé Nast Traveler's Readers Choice Awards as the #16 Hotel in the Northeast USA, and for good reason! Enjoy a relaxing stay at this well appointed property and enjoy gourmet breakfast every morning.
The Edgar Hotel - An ideal spot if you’re looking to stay in an affordable hotel in Edgartown. Newly renovated and with an on-site restaurant, Town Bar & Grill. Walkable to downtown Edgartown and right next to Stop & Shop grocery store for all of your holiday cravings. The hotel also boasts a two bedroom luxury suite with a full kitchen for delicious Holiday meals.
The Charlotte Inn - Tucked away on quiet South Summer Street in Edgartown Village, it’s exquisitely appointed with fine art, English antiques, lavish linens, and fresh flowers. It’s a romantic reflection of a bygone era for those craving a uniquely luxurious experience, where tranquility and gracious hospitality meet Edwardian elegance.
Mansion House - A short walk from the Steamship Authority ferry terminal sits the Mansion House hotel on Main Street, Vineyard Haven. Enjoy expansive water views from the rooftop cupola. Guest rooms offer soaking tubs, flat-screen TVs, fireplaces and balconies with views of Vineyard Sound, in addition to several pet friendly rooms. Do all of your holiday shopping right outside the door in Vineyard Haven's downtown shopping district!
The Harbor View Hotel - The hotel offers dreamy spaces and well appointed guest rooms, as well as private Captain’s Cottages, stand-alone, fully-equipped and elegant Victorian homes; and the Presidential Skyhouse Wing for those that want one of the most exclusive experiences on the entire Island. Make your stay extra delicious at their on-site restaurant Bettini, which will be serving Christmas dinner at their renowned Bettini restaurant.
Beginning in 2020 The Martha’s Vineyard Bank made it easier to support multiple businesses at once through their LIFT certificate program. LIFT is an online store featuring discounted gift certificates from several Martha’s Vineyard based businesses, making it a one-stop shop for those who love Martha’s Vineyard and want to shop where their heart is.
LIFT features discounted gift certificates from local lodging, restaurants, artists and retailers. Shoppers have access to exclusive discounts not offered elsewhere. The site is powered by Martha’s Vineyard Bank at no cost to merchants and has generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in merchant revenue to date since launching earlier this year.