Holidays on the VineyardMartha's Vineyard · Thanksgiving to New Year's
Home / Guides / December on the Vineyard

Things to Do on Martha's Vineyard in December 2026

From Thanksgiving weekend through New Year's, every holiday event we can find in Edgartown, Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven, in date order.

Saturday, November 7

Vineyard Haven11am–4pm · through Dec 19

HARVEST Art Exhibition

MV Playhouse / Circuit Arts

Circuit Arts' first annual fall group show at Martha's Vineyard Playhouse, featuring artwork by Islanders. Free admission.

Saturday, November 14

Vineyard Haven

Winter Birds of Nantucket Sound

Alliance to Protect Nantucket Sound

A look at the winter bird species of Nantucket Sound. Check the event page for time and location details.

Wednesday, November 18

Vineyard Haven10:30am–11am

Alpaca Walk and Talk

Island Alpaca Company, Island Alpaca, Island Alpaca Pastures, but first meet in the farm store to sign in View map 1 Head of the Pond Road, Vineyard Havenhttp://islandalpaca.com/product_detail.php?p_id=731 ##alpaca-walk #alpaca-fun #Islandalpaca Walking with alpaca is a way to learn more about how gentle they truly are. A wonderful experience for all ages. Every participant will learn the basics of handling an alpaca safely as well as where they come from and why they are important. One can see how sweet and gentle they are by interacting with them, and literally get your hands on them to see how luxurious and soft their fleece is. This experience is available daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration is required, weather permitting. Reserve early to secure your walk, as space is limited. Walk-ins welcomed by chance, and also available by appointment, through March 2024. Cost: $30 per person to walk your own alpaca. Share your alpaca for just $20 per additional person. No minimum number of people to share one alpaca. With children under 14 years of age, sharing with an adult is required. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. Closed-toe shoes required, and masks suggested, but not mandatory. Island Alpaca is open 7 days per week year-round 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Including Christmas Day and New Years Day!

Vineyard Haven11am–5am

World Market Holiday Shop

A holiday pop-up shop in the Capawock Theatre, Main St Vineyard Haven. that has been transformed into a winter wonderland. We feature unique, affordable, fair trade crafts from around the world, including Africa, Haiti, India, Peru and Guatemala. The market supports economic empowerment in developing countries.

Oak Bluffs12pm–4pm

Featherstone's Annual Holiday Gift Show

Celebrate the holiday season while supporting Island artists and Featherstone! The perfect holiday shopping destination with gifts for everyone (and yourself) — handmade creations including paintings, photography, pottery, crafts, jewelry, knitwear, clothing, accessories, ornaments, cards, calendars and stocking stuffers. Buy local and support local artists all while supporting Featherstone as well! 'Tis the season for supporting the arts community!

Oak Bluffs

Annual Turkey Trot

Join us for the annual Oak Bluffs School Turkey Trot! Runners and Walkers of all ages are welcome! Come burn some calories before you feast!

Wednesday, November 25

Edgartown10am–3pm

All Aboard The Carnegie

The Carnegie
Also Nov 27, Nov 28, Dec 10, Dec 11 +1 more

Martha's Vineyard Railroad Club Holiday Train Installation, including The Polar Express!

Edgartown10am–3pm · through Dec 23

Dickens Village Vignettes in the Dickinson Reading Room

The Carnegie

Vintage Dickens' Village Collectibles in the Dickinson Reading Room Wednesday, 11/25 10A-3PM, Friday, 11/27, 10-3PM, Saturday, 11/28, 10-3PM, Thursday, 11/03, 10A-3PM, Friday, 11/04, 10A-3PM, Saturday, 10/5, 10A-3PM, Thursday, 12/10, 10A-3PM, Friday, 12/11, 10A-3PM, Saturday, 12/12, 10A-3PM, Sunday, 12/13, 10A-3PM, Thursday, 12/17, 10A-3PM, Friday, 12/18, 10A-3PM, Saturday, 12/19, 10A-3PM, Sunday, 12/20, 10A-3PM, Monday, 12/21, 10A-3PM, Tuesday, 12/22, 10AM-3PM, Wednesday, 12/23, 10AM - 3PM.

Saturday, November 28

Edgartown12pm–2pm

Chowder Cup Contest

Daniel Fisher House

Join us Saturday November 28th at the Dr. Daniel Fisher House to sample the best chowder on the island and vote for the people's choice! Cold local beer, music, and raw bar provided. All proceeds benefit Edgartown Board of Trade and Edgartown's small business community. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance - two entry times at 12 PM and 1 PM.

Friday, December 4

Vineyard Haven12pm–10pm

Pop-up artist market

MV Playhouse, sponsored by MV Made

Including music (tickets sold ahead, pay what you can, through Circuit Arts) performance 7-9pm

Vineyard Haven5pm

Late-Night Shopping & Specials

Downtown Vineyard Haven
Also Dec 11, Dec 20

Participating shops stay open late with holiday specials. Part of Vineyard Haven's 'Tis the Season.

Vineyard Haven5pm

Late-night Shopping and Specials

Downtown Vineyard Haven

View businesses' decorated window displays while shopping and enjoy special bites, pop-ups, and salesat participating businesses

Vineyard Haven

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Katharine Cornell Theater

Island Theater Workshop's holiday show opens. Check the listing for performance times.

Saturday, December 5

Vineyard Haven12pm–2pm

Santa's Workshop

FISH

Meet Santa, enjoy refreshments and music, and greet Santa and his local fire department volunteers on their fire truck!

Vineyard Haven4pm–6pm

Fur Ever Memorial Tree

The Black Dog Campus, near the Black Dog Tavern

Gather with friends and family (and the MV Chamber of Commerce) for festive cheer, twinkling lights, and a celebration that brings our island community together.

Oak Bluffs6:30pm

Light Up Oak Bluffs

Healy Square

Join us in Healy Square for Santa, live music, caroling, cocoa, and the tree lighting at 6:30 PM. Please note that this event has moved to a new date this year!

Sunday, December 6

Vineyard Haven10:30am

Interactive Polar Express

MV Film Center

Cost: Free, ticket reservation required (limited space) A free interactive movie showing with the VH Library. Viewers will get prompts and props to interact with the film!

Vineyard Haven12pm–2pm

Fred Fisher carriage rides

Downtown Vineyard Haven
Also Dec 20

Pick-up outside S&S Kitchenette, and enjoy a free festive loop around town while caroling!

Vineyard Haven

Annual Shop-to-Share fundraiser for IGI

Downtown Vineyard Haven

Have your support reach even farther today when shopping local, as participating businesses contribute a percentage of all sales today to Island Grown Initiative.

Monday, December 7

Edgartown1:30pm–2pm · through Dec 12

CIE Most Festive ‘Fit Contest

Edgartown Village Green

Who will receive the first annual Most Festive ‘Fit award on Saturday, Dec. 12th? Dress to impress in your festive holiday attire because we’re giving away an AMAZING PRIZE. Whether you’re rocking an ugly sweater, coming as your favorite Christmas character, or shining like a tree topper, this is your chance to win big and take the cake for Christmas In Edgartown bragging rights! Incognito Elves will be on the lookout Saturday morning, inviting those who stand a chance to the final judging in the Village Green at 1 pm. Don’t miss out on this fun event! Tell your friends and let’s make it a day to remember as we celebrate in style.

Thursday, December 10

Edgartown10am–5pm · through Dec 13

Stocking Stuffer Bar at Sea Legs

sea legs

Mix and match any five items from the stocking stuffer bar for $75 total - an amazing savings and easy way to check multiple people of your gifting list!

Edgartown2pm–4:30pm

Snowflake Workshop at Edgartown Public Library

Edgartown Library
Also Dec 11, Dec 12

Help us turn the library into a winter wonderland! Stop by the Children’s Room throughout Christmas in Edgartown weekend to make your own paper snowflakes. We’ll display your creations in our big library windows for everyone to enjoy through the New Year! Source: edgartownlibrary.org

Oak Bluffs3pm–7pm · through Dec 11

Oak Bluffs Holiday Stroll

Downtown Oak Bluffs

Our second annual Holiday Stroll! Participating shops and restaurants throughout downtown Oak Bluffs will host artisan pop-ups, crafts, refreshments, holiday music, and festive shopping. 3-7PM both nights.

Friday, December 11

Edgartown3pm–8pm

Deck Your Ears – Holiday Ear Piercing Party

sea legs

Add some sparkle this holiday season and come deck your ears at Sea Legs!! Sea Legs offers safe lobe-piercing services using premium 14k yellow/white gold or 24k gold plated surgical steel studs, making it perfect for sensitive ears. (Note: Ear piercings only; no body piercings). Walk-ins are welcome throughout the event, but you can also book an appointment here to reserve a specific time.

Edgartown5:30pm–8pm

Champagne Stroll Pop up at Sea Spa

Sea Spa

Join us for a festive Friday evening during Christmas in Edgartown! Stop in while strolling through town, enjoy a little holiday cheer, explore our beautiful gift collections, and shop for spa packages, gift certificates, and thoughtful holiday gifts! Enjoy our great deals in store!!We'll also be hosting a special pop-up demonstration that evening! Keep an eye on our Instagram @SeaSpaSalon for updates and details on the demo! We can't wait to celebrate the holiday season with you!

Edgartown5:30pm–6:15pm

Lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse

Memorial Wharf

A time honored tradition, Edgartown’s version of a tree lighting is full of seaside village charm. Thank you to the MV Museum for the annual holiday lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse, which takes place at 6pm sharp. Come celebrate with us at Memorial Wharf for a great viewing spot and countdown! Beginning at 5:30 PM Edgartown’s favorite mascots, non-profit concessions by the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club, caroling, give-aways and maybe the Man In Red himself! This fun event is brought to you by the Edgartown Board of Trade. If you wish to watch the lighting from the Harbor View Hotel, you must make reservations with Bettini Restaurant.

Edgartown8pm–9pm

Minnesingers Annual Holiday Concerts

The Carnegie
Also Dec 12

Vineyard Preservation Trust & Martha's Vineyard High School Present Annual Minnesingers Holiday Concerts

Vineyard Haven

Late-night Shopping

Downtown Vineyard Haven
Also Dec 20

Every Friday in December, enjoy late-night shopping in town as participating local businesses keep their doors open late. Enjoy sips and bites, evening specials, pop-ups and more at participating businesses. We appreciate your shopping locally this season, and want to make it an easy, festive, fun time while you're at it!

Saturday, December 12

Edgartown9:30am–2pm

Parade Sparkle Stop at Candy Cane Lane

Sea Spa

Get ready to sparkle for the Christmas in Edgartown Parade! 🎅❤️ Join us for one of our favorite holiday traditions, Candy Cane Lane at Sea Spa Salon! Bring the kids, get into the Christmas spirit, and enjoy a little holiday magic right in downtown Edgartown! Hair Tinsel – Add some festive sparkle to your hair! Face Sparkles & Glitter Freckles – Get parade-ready with a little Christmas shimmer! Sparkle Wands – A fun holiday touch for the little ones! Festive Snow Cones – Enjoy a colorful, Christmas-inspired frozen treat! Candy Canes & Holiday Cheer – Because it wouldn't be Candy Cane Lane without a little sweetness! Holiday Shopping, Too! While the kids are getting their sparkle on, explore our holiday gift collections, beautiful spa packages, gift certificates, and curated gift baskets. We'll help you find something special for everyone on your list! Stop by before the parade to get all dressed up, or visit us afterward for more festive fun! We can't wait to celebrate another magical Christmas in Edgartown with our island community! 508-627-8953 🌐 www.seaspasalonmv.com

Edgartown10am–4pm

33rd Annual Christmas in Edgartown Art & Crafts Festival

Edgartown School
Also Dec 13

This annual holiday event features the work of some of over 40 amazing Island artists and craftspeople. Join them in celebration of 33 years of a wonderful Edgartown tradition! Free parking on site & “Shopper Trolley” to Church Street available 12 - 3 PM. Food concessions provided by the 8th Grade Class. Come take care of all your holiday shopping.. Benefiting Edgartown School Class of 2027. For questions about the event or how to be a vendor, please call Fran at 508-560-6721.

Edgartown10am–3pm

Handmade from the Heart

99 Main Street Edgartown, Massachusetts, 02539 United States

Handmade from the Heart is a cherished holiday tradition that brings our Island community together in support of Hospice & Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard during Christmas in Edgartown. Each year, talented Island makers, bakers, and neighbors donate handmade gifts, crafts, and homemade treats for sale. Every purchase helps provide hospice, palliative, and bereavement care close to home, for Islanders and their families when they need it most. Join us and find the best gifts of the season!

Edgartown10am–3pm

Holiday Faire in the Edgartown Village Green

Edgartown Village Green

Brought to you by the Edgartown Village Market, the Holiday Faire is back and right in the heart of our downtown winter wonderland. Make s'no mistake, this is an absolute must-do event! Join us in the Village Green to shop one-of-a-kind artisanal goods from over 30 local vendors in this European-style Christmas market complete with hot cocoa, treats, and entertainment for the whole family. Warm up in the tented beer garden while listening to live music and enjoying an array of seasonal food and drinks. Libations will be available for purchase to benefit local non-profits. Participating artisans coming soon Thank you to our Holiday Faire partners: Vineyard Preservation Trust, Edgartown Village Market, Donnelly + Co, Amity Island Running Club & Wash Ashore Beer Co. , and Foley Family Wines.

Edgartown11am–11:45am

Christmas in Edgartown Parade

Main Street

Join us for the holiday magic on Main Street! Don’t miss the fun - floats, animals, music, dancers, kids, fire engines, and of course SANTA. The parade will take place on Main Street between Pease’s Point Way and Water Street. (Rain or shine) Thank you to Rockland Trust for their support and sponsorship of this favorite weekend event!

Edgartown11:45am–1pm

Photos with Santa Sponsored by Wallace & Co. Sotheby's International Realty

The Covington

Photos with Santa Sponsored by Wallace & Co. Sotheby's International Realty. Santa will be arriving at The Covington at 52 Main Street in Edgartown following the parade. Santa will be available for photos from 11:45am to 1:00pm. Use your own camera. Donations will be accepted to benefit The Red Stocking Fund.

Edgartown1pm–3pm

Botanical Ornament Workshop

Juniper

Our experts teach you how to create a botanical ornament using fresh and dried flowers. Must pre-register by calling 508-627-3036, extension 1

Edgartown1pm–1:30pm

Buddy the Elf Breakfast Spaghetti Eating Competition

sea legs

At the Annual Buddy the Elf Spaghetti Eating Competition, you’ll dive right in hands first to tackle a magical bag of spaghetti topped with maple syrup and M&Ms. The first festive elf to finish wins a $200 gift card to Sea Legs — perfect for treating yourself after your sweet victory! Grab your stretchy pants, bring your Christmas cheer, and join us for some sticky, syrupy, elf-approved fun. Come hungry, leave jolly — and maybe a little sticky! Contestants and spectators please gather on the street outside 13 Dock Street right before 1PM. No registration required.

Sunday, December 13

Edgartown11am–12:30pm

Festive Dog Show

Mini Park

Benifit for Animal Shelter of Martha's Vineyard. Dress you and your pet in Holiday Festive wear and come for a special Holiday Dog Show. Fun times for all!

Edgartown2pm–11pm

Brunch with The Grinch at Rockfish

Rockfish

Come enjoy brunch with the Grinch himself! Hours and specials for Christmas in Edgartown: Thursday: 3:30pm-5:30pm Appetizer Happy Hour/4pm-9:30pm Tacos & Tequila Special Saturday: Open early at 10am for parade goers! Sunday: Breakfast with the Grinch 10am-2pm; Open 10am-9:30pm Source: www.rockfishedgartown.com

Friday, December 18

Oak Bluffs

Last-Minute Magic in Oak Bluffs

Downtown Oak Bluffs

Still checking off your Christmas list? Find a little last-minute magic in Oak Bluffs, with shops open late for gift shopping, wrapping, and festive refreshments!

Sunday, December 20

Vineyard Haven12pm–2pm

Winter Wonderland

Downtown Vineyard Haven

Bell choir outside The BeachHouse and the Cape Cranberry Carolers, plus Fred Fisher's free carriage rides.

Know of an event we're missing?Submit an event →
Cards from the 2027 Martha's Vineyard desk calendar
Shop the island

2027 Martha's Vineyard desk calendar

Twelve months of island photography, from Edgartown Harbor to Gay Head Light. Matching notecards too.

More guides

Listings come from each organizer and the Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce. Last checked Thursday, November 12.