Autumn is in full swing on Martha’s Vineyard and we’re enjoying the foliage, spectacular sunsets (on empty beaches) and cozy nights by the fireplace. But we’re not hibernating quite yet – there are so many exciting activities taking place across the island this November. Here’s a roundup of our top 10:
- Grow a Winter Crop: Put your garden to work this winter with a tasty crop. On Saturday, November 4, join gardening experts at the Farm Institute for a class on how to grow garlic over the colder months. There will be a garlic planting demonstration as well as a discussion on selecting garlic varieties – and participants leave with a bulb of garlic to start their own plantings!
- Enjoy a Winter Market: The summer Farmers’ Market may be a fond memory, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get farm fresh produce on Martha’s Vineyard. Head to the West Tisbury Agricultural Hall every Saturday this winter for the West Tisbury Winter Farmers’ Market.
- Dance Under the Barn Eaves: Saturday, November 4 marks the Annual Barn Raiser’s Ball to celebrate those who built the island’s spectacular Agricultural Hall. Bring a dessert to share and dance the night away with music by Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish.
- Take an Autumn Walk: Take in the sights and sounds of autumn on a Fall Walk hosted by the Polly Hill Arboretum. The walk, on Saturday, November 11, will be led by Horticulturist Ben Madeiras who will point out plants of interest among the Polly Hill collection.
- Meet a Sheep: Head to the Agricultural Hall on Saturday, November 18 for a wool demonstration from the folks at the Farm Institute. Say hello to the sheep while taking in the demonstration, then pick up your veggies at the Winter Farmer’s Market.
- Start Your Holiday Shopping: Get a head start on your holiday shopping and support local artists by stopping by the 15th Annual Holiday Gift Show at Featherstone Center for the Arts. The show, taking place November 18 through December 18 will feature gifts including clothing, soaps, jewelry, pottery and so much more.
- Attend an Artisans Festival: Still need to pick up a few gifts for people on your list? Head to the Grange Hall Friday, November 24 and Saturday, November 25 for the Vineyard Artisans Annual Thanksgiving Weekend Festival. The holiday art show will feature all sorts of one-of-a-kind gifts from your favorite island artisans.
- Skip Black Friday: On Friday, November 24, take a break from the sales and enjoy a bit of nature at the Annual Fall Festival at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary. The event will feature hayrides, face painting, wreath making, live music and more.
- Get Festive: Herald in the start of the holidays by heading to Post Office Square on Wednesday, November 29 for the Oak Bluffs Tree Lighting. Enjoy festive live music while you wait for Santa to arrive via fire truck followed by the lighting of the tree to usher in the holiday season.
- Wander among Wreaths: Thursday, November 30 marks the Annual Festival of the Wreaths hosted by the Federated Church to benefit the Sara Mayhew Parsonage. Browse 75 originally designed, natural wreaths available for purchase.