By Marina Case
There’s something magical about Christmas on Martha’s Vineyard. The Island embraces the holidays with charm and simplicity – nothing is overdone, rather the air is filled with timeless traditions that always capture my heart.
A Town Decorated Just Right
One of my favorite parts of the season is strolling through the streets of Edgartown. The architecture, which is beautiful on its own, looks even more special dressed with fresh greenery. Simple wreaths, big bows, garlands on porches, and glowing, old-fashioned lanterns all feel like a holiday movie brought to life. The Vineyard’s festive décor, mirrors that of every day – it never tries too hard, and that fits the Island perfectly!
Christmas in Edgartown
Every year, the Island hosts Christmas in Edgartown. For me, this weekend-long festival is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. The events start with the annual lighting of the lighthouse on Friday evening. Everyone bundles up and heads down to the shore to enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and Christmas music as they take in the colorful lights adorning the iconic Martha’s Vineyard landmark.
Throughout the weekend, there are over 100 fun events like horse-drawn carriage rides, the gingerbread house competition, an ugly sweater contest, and the Dickens Village Vignettes at The Carnegie Heritage Center. But one of my absolute favorites is the holiday parade with floats, animals, music, dancers, and of course Santa himself on a fabulous antique fire truck – such a great way to get into the spirit surrounded by community.
This weekend reminds me a little of Nantucket’s Stroll, but with its own more relaxed Vineyard personality filled with moments that become warm memories.
Finding the Perfect Locally Made Gifts
One thing I love about the holidays on Martha’s Vineyard is shopping locally. The Artisans Festival at Grange Hall, a Vineyard Preservation Trust property, is a highlight. I always find some of the most thoughtfully made gifts here – pottery, textile art, woodwork, jewelry, candles, and small-batch pieces you won’t find anywhere else. These aren’t just “holiday fair” items – they’re truly beautiful pieces crafted by people who put their hearts into what they make. If you want something meaningful, this is the place to go.
And then there are the shops I always love popping into:
Katydid – my go-to for cosmetics and cozy shawls
Rags – great accessories and jewelry
Vineyard Vines – I love all their plaids
The Black Dog – classic Vineyard style
Christmas shopping on Martha’s Vineyard is more like a little adventure than an errand.
A Festive Stop
One of the best places to enjoy some holiday cheer is the Harbor View Hotel, which is always incredibly decorated and features the Martha’s Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite. Two of the hotel’s guest rooms are transformed into a winter haven filled with hundreds of teddy bears and twinkling lights – with 100% of the admission proceeds benefitting the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club. I love to grab lunch at Bettini, the hotel’s restaurant with festive views of the lighthouse.
How I Like to Decorate My Vineyard Home for Christmas
When it comes to Christmas decorations, my Island style is simple and natural. I love walking into the woods and clipping holly or whatever greenery looks beautiful that day. I tuck the sprigs into water tubes and place them along the mantel or in vases. It feels like the kind of decorating people did centuries ago – and it brings a softness to the home.
I also opt for a small tabletop “Charlie Brown” tree. I love the charm of it. It’s easy to decorate and it doesn’t take over the room. Growing up, my German grandparents had a small tabletop tree and placed the presents around it. They also used real candles on the tree for one hour on Christmas Eve, and that soft glow stayed with me. Keeping things small and simple connects me back to that memory.
Enjoying a home-made holiday meal together is important to me, so I take great care in setting the table to make it feel extra special. Last year, I used a white tablecloth with plaid plates and folded the napkins into small Christmas trees, tying each one with a little bow. It was simple but sweet. In previous years, I used one of my many plaid tablecloths (I can’t resist a good plaid). It instantly makes the table feel festive without adding much else.
What Makes a Martha’s Vineyard Christmas Special
I find Christmas on Martha’s Vineyard quiet, charming, and full of small moments filled with the real spirit of the holiday. It’s a time where I feel grounded, thoughtful, and deeply connected to the Island.
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