August on Martha’s Vineyard is a magical time when the Island truly comes alive. Known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant community, Martha’s Vineyard offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, making it the perfect destination for both new visitors and returning travelers. As the busiest month of the year, August is packed with fun, important, and exciting events that draw people from all over. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply unwind by the sea, Martha’s Vineyard has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the events you should be aware of to make the most of this enchanting month – How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard.
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 1: Meet the Fleet, Menemsha
Time: 3–7 pm
Location: Menemsha Docks in Chilmark, MA
Kick off the month with the annual Meet the Fleet festival, a celebration of Martha’s Vineyard’s commercial fishing community and working waterfronts, presented by the Martha’s Vineyard Fishermen’s Preservation Trust. This family-friendly event offers a variety of activities, including tours on Environmental Police and Coast Guard vessels, a helicopter rescue demonstration, net mending and sea scallop shucking competitions, live music, crab races, fish printing, a silent auction, a raw bar, and more. It’s a fantastic way to support local fishermen and learn about the Island’s maritime heritage.
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 2: First Friday, Vineyard Haven
Time: 10:00am-11:00pm
Location: Vineyard Haven
First Friday is a free community event in Vineyard Haven that happens on the first Friday of every month from June through October, as well as December. This vibrant event offers a full day of activities and entertainment, starting at 10:00 am and running until 11:00 pm. Join the fun with art displays, live music, shopping, carriage rides, delicious food, and even a silent disco. The event showcases the talents of over a dozen local artists and artisans, who will be selling their unique creations. It’s an inspiring and fun-filled day for all ages as Vineyard Haven opens its doors to celebrate the community. Click the website link for more information.
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 2-10: M.V. African American Film Festival
Location: M.V. Performing Arts Center, Oak Bluffs
Time: 10:00am daily
The 22nd Annual Run&Shoot Filmworks Martha’s Vineyard African-American Film Festival is an OSCAR® Qualifying Festival in the Short Film Category. From August 2 to August 10, enjoy a diverse selection of films that celebrate African American culture and storytelling. All screenings take place at the M.V. Performing Arts Center in Oak Bluffs. Click the website link to view the extensive list of films and to purchase tickets for this prestigious and culturally enriching event.
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 3: MV Museums Deco Dreams Summer Party
Time: 6–9pm
Location: Martha’s Vineyard Museum
Step back into the 1920s with Deco Dreams, a night where art deco elegance meets the joy of the jazz age at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum’s Deco Dreams Summer Party. Don your finest art deco attire and enjoy signature cocktails, lively music, and a photo booth to capture the moment. This event offers exclusive after-hours access to the museum’s exhibits, allowing you to explore the rich history and culture of the era. Join the Martha’s Vineyard Museum for a glamorous celebration of 1920s style and make unforgettable memories at this enchanting summer party.
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 4: Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center Summer Benefit
Time: 5–7:30pm
Location: Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center
Support Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center at their annual summer fundraiser. This year’s event features the film “Rescued Hearts,” showcasing the transformative impact of horses and their relationships with people. Enjoy an inspiring evening while contributing to a great cause.
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 5: MV Hospice and Palliative Care’s Summer Soiree
Time: 5:30pm
Location: Farm Neck Golf Club
The Summer Soiree is a key fundraising event for MV Hospice and Palliative Care. Held at the scenic Farm Neck Golf Club, this elegant evening includes dinner, live music, and a silent auction. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support essential healthcare services on the island. Last year’s auction raised over $280,000 for Hospice & Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard last year. Visit the website to buy your ticket!
How to Have the Perfect August on Martha’s Vineyard – August 7: The Cottagers, Inc. Sunset Soiree Annual Fundraiser
Time: 4–7pm
Location: Featherstone Center for The Arts
The Cottagers, Inc. hosts their annual Sunset Soiree, a highlight of the summer social calendar. This fundraiser supports scholarships and community programs for African American residents of Martha’s Vineyard. Enjoy a beautiful sunset, delicious food, an auction, and great company while supporting a meaningful cause. Purchase your tickets here!
August 10: Chilmark Road Race
The Chilmark Road Race has been a beloved island tradition since 1978, drawing runners of all ages and abilities. The 3.1 mile race route along the hilly Middle Road offers stunning views of the Vineyard’s rural landscape, making it a scenic and challenging course. Whether you’re a serious runner or just looking to participate in a fun community event, this race is a must. All proceeds go to the Chilmark community center, register for the race on their website!
August 14: Grand Illumination Night
Location: Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, Oak Bluffs
The crown jewel of the Campground season, Grand Illumination Night, is a must-see event on Martha’s Vineyard. Thousands of Island residents and visitors gather each summer to enjoy this spectacular evening. The festivities begin in the Tabernacle, where seats fill well in advance. The program includes a prayer, a Community Sing, music by the Vineyard Haven Band, and the ceremonial lighting of the first lantern. This event, held during one of the busiest weeks on the island, is truly unique and special, making it a staple of the summer season. No tickets necessary, just show up and enjoy a walk around!
August 15-18: Black Fashion Weekend
Black Fashion Weekend celebrates and showcases Black designers and Black-owned brands from around the world, providing a platform to elevate Black creativity and connect with a purposeful audience. By addressing the exclusion of Black talent in the fashion industry, this event offers a space for designers to present their creations to potential clients, consumers, investors, and influencers. With Martha’s Vineyard being a popular summer destination for prominent Black figures, this event also serves as a premier opportunity for business networking and social connections.
August 15-18: 162nd Martha’s Vineyard Ag Fair
Time: Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM-11 PM, and Sunday from 9:30 AM-7 PM
Location: West Tisbury Agricultural Hall
Experience the charm of an old-fashioned country fair at the 162nd Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair. Held over four days on the fairgrounds of Agricultural Hall in West Tisbury, this beloved event offers a variety of rides, games, shucking contests, a skillet toss, a horse pull, woodsmen competitions, and dog and livestock shows. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and fun, making it a highlight of the summer season.
August 16: Annual Oak Bluffs Fireworks
Location: Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs
Sponsored by the Town of Oak Bluffs with the help of many generous donations, the Annual Oak Bluffs Fireworks is a highlight of the summer. The show begins after 9 PM, once it gets dark, and takes place in Ocean Park. Every year, during one of the island’s busiest weeks, the town celebrates with an incredible fireworks display that draws a massive crowd. Note that blankets cannot be set up unattended before 4 PM, so plan accordingly to secure a good spot for this spectacular event.
August 18 & 19: Islanders Write
Location: Featherstone Center for the Arts
Islanders Write brings together authors, journalists, and literary enthusiasts for two days of panels, workshops, and book signings. Held at the Featherstone Center for the Arts and sponsored by the Martha’s Vineyard Times, this event is a paradise for book lovers and aspiring writers looking to connect with the literary community.
August 25: MV SoundFest
Location: The Cove in Vineyard Haven
End the month on a high note with MV SoundFest, a music festival featuring a lineup of talented artists, including reggae star Richie Spice. This outdoor event is hosted at The Cove and offers great music, food vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect way to wrap up your August on Martha’s Vineyard.
August on Martha’s Vineyard is a month brimming with excitement, culture, and community spirit. From the vibrant festivities of Grand Illumination Night and the Martha’s Vineyard Fair to the artistic showcases of the Deco Dreams Summer Party and Black Fashion Weekend, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re captivated by the charm of old-fashioned fairs, inspired by the creativity of Black designers, or immersed in the cinematic excellence of the African American Film Festival, August offers a rich tapestry of events that celebrate the island’s heritage and diversity. As you plan your visit, remember to explore beyond the events, savoring the island’s natural beauty, local cuisine, and welcoming communities. Martha’s Vineyard in August is not just a destination—it’s an invitation to create lasting memories and embrace the essence of summer in this beloved coastal paradise.