It’s officially October on Martha’s Vineyard. The nights are crisp and the days are filled with vibrant fall foliage. Our events calendar is booked - from decadent chocolate tastings to festive hay rides, and we’re looking forward to a fun-filled fall month. Here’s our roundup of the 10 must-do events this October:
- Taste the Vineyard: Enjoy a 75-minute walking tour through the heart of Vineyard Have's Cultural District. The tour features stops at local restaurants and retail shops with sample-sized bites along the way. Grab your tickets at the Chamber of Commerce for tours taking place Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays this month.
- See a Film Fest: Take part in a film festival happening simultaneously across the world. That’s right – 100,000 viewers will watch the same films as part of the Manhattan Short Film Festival, taking place at the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center Thursday, October 5 through Sunday, October 8.
- Hear an “Oompah Band”: The First Baptist Church in Vineyard Haven is hosting an autumn classic – an Oktoberfest. The event, starting at noon on Saturday, October 7, will include an “Oompah Band,” bake sale, White Elephant, sausage, hot dogs, sauerkraut, Root Beer floats, pretzels and more.
- Indulge in Chocolate: Get your sweet tooth ready – the 14th Annual Art of Chocolate Festival is back again with an opening night on Friday, October 6 as well as events on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy treats and sweets at this fun fest at Featherstone Center for the Arts.
- Head on a Hay Ride: Head on over to the Farm Institute for a festive hay ride through the Katama fields and meadows. The ride takes place at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 7 and while there is no need to register, the ride fits about 20 individuals.
- Attend an Artisans Festival: Missed the Artisans Festival this summer? Now is your chance to see all your favorite local artists at the Vineyard Artisans Annual Columbus Day Festival on Sunday, October 8. The festival will feature weaving, fine furniture, pottery, leather goods, oil paintings and much more.
- Sail the High Seas: Head to Vineyard Haven Harbor to see General Patto's Ship, the ‘When and If’. The wooden schooner, built in 1939, will host daily sails through October 9.
- Pick a Pumpkin: Sunday, October 14 marks Morning Glory Farm’s Annual Pumpkin Festival. Beyond viewing more pumpkins than you can imagine, the event will have a tie-dye station, hayrides, food from the grill and bakery and local music.
- Feast on Food (and Wine): A foodies dream – the Martha’s Vineyard Food and Wine Festival is taking place Thursday, October 19 through Sunday, October 22. The festival hosts events across the island from “Shells & Sake” to “Sunday Brunch with Fashions from the Great Put On.”
- Get Local: Test your culinary limits at the Local Wild Food Challenge at the Farm Institute on Sunday, October 22. The culinary competition features chefs who forage, hunt, gather, farm and trade for the ingredients in their dishes.