Holiday Weekend in Edgartown, Massachusetts, on Martha’s Vineyard
Every winter, the summertime island destination of Martha’s Vineyard transforms into a winter wonderland full of festivities including holiday concerts, a lighthouse lighting, and an annual parade.
By Katherine Keenan|Dec 20 2021|
Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine Keenan
Holiday decorations galore at Juniper flower shop in Edgartown, Massachusetts. Photo Credit : Katherine Keenan
For many decades, Martha’s Vineyard has been one of New England’s summertime hotspots — and for good reason. This 96-square-mile island located off the coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts is home to many beautiful beaches, charming historic towns, and ample opportunities for fine dining. As a result, the island has also been home to many famous folk, including James Taylor, Larry David, Bill Murray, David Letterman, the Clintons, and the Obamas. But fewer know Martha’s Vineyard during the off-season, a time when holiday cheer abounds and the island’s towns burst into a flurry of twinkle lights and merriment. Ever wondered what it’s like to spend a winter weekend in Edgartown, Massachusetts, on the island of Martha’s Vineyard? Read on to learn some of our favorite things to eat, see, and do during Christmas in Edgartown!
More exemplary storefront holiday decor, spotted at Nell, a women’s fashion boutique in Edgartown, Massachusetts. Photo Credit : Katherine Keenan
Holiday Weekend on Martha’s Vineyard | Edgartown, Massachusetts
While Martha’s Vineyard has firmly cemented itself as a summertime hotspot due to its stunning beaches (like South Beach, where this image was captured), fewer appreciate the island for its alter ego as a serene, charming holiday destination. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanAs the holidays approach, Martha’s Vineyard transforms into a coastal wonderland full of festivities including concerts, holiday sales, a lighthouse lighting, and an annual parade. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanThe iconic Edgartown lobster trap Christmas tree. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanBut first things first: any trip to Martha’s Vineyard begins with a Steamship Authority ferry from Woods Hole, Massachusetts. It’s a quick ferry, and the perfect opportunity to grab a seat by a window, enjoy a refreshment from the ferry’s bar and cafe, and watch out the window as the island approaches in the distance. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanOne of the first views you’ll spot when you land on Martha’s Vineyard and exit the ferry into Vineyard Haven. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanThe Black Dog Tavern in Vineyard Haven on Martha’s Vineyard, and an excellent place to stop for lunch after getting off the ferry from Woods Hole. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanOur final destination? Edgartown, a charming island village where the roads are lined with beautiful historic homes and reminders of the town’s storied past as a major whaling port. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanDuring the holidays, charming details and decorations can be spotted adorning nearly every home and storefront throughout downtown Edgartown. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanUpon arriving in Edgartown we checked into the Harbor View, a historic 1891 hotel within walking distance of downtown Edgartown which boasts views of the harbor and the iconic Edgartown lighthouse. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanNext on the agenda? A stroll (or bike ride) through downtown Edgartown to admire the town’s many charming and festive storefronts. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanMain Street transforms into a magical holiday bonanza during the annual Christmas In Edgartown parade, during which it’s not unusual to spot a dancing elf (or two!) or catch a rare sighting of Santa himself on his horse-drawn sleigh. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanDeck the (town) halls! Parade aside, there’s plenty of holiday cheer to be found in Edgartown throughout the season, as exemplified by the boughs and twinkle lights decking the Edgartown Town Hall. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanOne of the most iconic Martha’s Vineyard businesses, the aforementioned Black Dog restaurant, has also become widely known for their eponymous logo, souvenirs, and apparel. Christmastime is no exception, when their Edgartown retail store rolls out many special holiday items that would make great presents or stocking stuffers. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanSweet treats from Espresso Love in Edgartown, a bakery which also happens to be a stellar spot to grab a cup of coffee or breakfast sandwich. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanAfter exploring town and watching the holiday parade, make sure not to miss the evening carols performed by a local high school chorus group, The Minnesingers, at the beautiful Old Whaling Church. Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanLikewise, make sure to take a walk over to the aforementioned Harbor View Hotel on the evening of the lighthouse lighting. Listen as carolers sing on the front porch, enjoy refreshments and food from the hotel’s restaurant Bettini, and wait for the moment that the lights on the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse flicker on. It’s quite the merry sight to see! Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanHave you ever explored Martha’s Vineyard or Edgartown during the holiday season?
2021 was the 40th anniversary of Christmas in Edgartown! It is a wonderful celebration, and in addition to all of the festivities and sights mentioned, it is a great time to support local shop owners and donate to some great causes. If you go, don’t miss the free hot cocoa at Murdick’s fudge and the sip and shop at Backwater Trading and the other events at so many other wonderful businesses. Many businesses give out very deep coupon discounts that weekend, and it is a nice way to support them as well. Alchemy and Bettini are amazing restaurants at which to dine, but make reservations far in advance!
2021 was the 40th anniversary of Christmas in Edgartown! It is a wonderful celebration, and in addition to all of the festivities and sights mentioned, it is a great time to support local shop owners and donate to some great causes. If you go, don’t miss the free hot cocoa at Murdick’s fudge and the sip and shop at Backwater Trading and the other events at so many other wonderful businesses. Many businesses give out very deep coupon discounts that weekend, and it is a nice way to support them as well. Alchemy and Bettini are amazing restaurants at which to dine, but make reservations far in advance!