As the air turns crisp and the streets of Edgartown glisten with the glow of festive lights, the 42nd Annual Christmas in Edgartown celebration is set to enchant locals and visitors alike from December 7th to 10th, 2023. This New England holiday tradition, hosted by the Edgartown Board of Trade, promises a magical weekend filled with seasonal cheer, captivating events, and, of course, delectable culinary delights.
With an abundance of events filling every corner of this beloved town, we’ve handpicked a few highlights to ignite your festive spirit. However, the excitement doesn’t stop here – there’s an extensive array of happenings and we couldn’t possibly name them all. Dive into our curated selection, and for a comprehensive list and detailed information, we encourage you to visit the official Christmas in Edgartown website for a full list of events.
All Weekend Long: Martha’s Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite
First and foremost, we would like to invite everyone attending Christmas in Edgartown to join us for the 13th enchanting year of the Martha’s Vineyard Teddy Bear Suite fundraiser at the Faraway Martha’s Vineyard, the new hotel at the historic Kelley House from Friday, December 8th through Sunday, December 10th. See our full schedule.
This magical holiday tradition, sponsored and created by Point B, supports the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club’s Beyond the School Bell after-school food and safety net programs serving hundreds of island children and their families. Year after year, thousands of people have visited our in-person event to admire the hundreds of teddy bears that are on display, positioned in creative and heartwarming vignettes, making an ideal backdrop for memorable holiday photos. This year marks the first time in three years the Teddy Bear Suite is returning to a magical in-person experience. You will discover a few new surprises this year as we debut at our new home at the Faraway. If you can’t make it in-person but would still like to support the fundraiser you can do so at mvteddybearsuite.com through December 31st. To date, we’ve raised more than $400,000+ for the vital safety net programming from the Boys & Girls Club.
Friday, December 8, 2023: A Day of Enchantment in Edgartown
Morning and Afternoon: Horse Drawn Carriage Rides, Sip and Shop Extravaganza
The day begins with an invitation to embark on a journey through Edgartown’s winter wonderland. The Harbor View Hotel, in collaboration with the Edgartown Board of Trade, offers private horse-drawn carriage rides on Friday and Saturday. Departing from the Harbor View Hotel, the carriage winds its way through the heart of Edgartown, passing beautifully decorated homes, meadows overlooking the ocean, the historic Edgartown village adorned in garland and bows, and the charming Edgartown Harbor. As you sip hot cider and snuggle under a warm throw, this festive ride promises to be a picturesque escape into holiday splendor.
As the day progresses, the streets of Edgartown beckon with an invitation to explore the Sip and Shop events at Backwater Trading Co, Juniper, Rainy Day, and Botanical Beauty. These charming boutiques open their doors for a delightful retail experience, inviting visitors to peruse unique holiday finds while enjoying festive beverages. It’s a perfect opportunity to discover special gifts for loved ones.
Evening: Galleries, Lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse, & Christmas Concert
For those seeking unique gifts and holiday decorations, head to the Old Sculpin Gallery during Christmas in Edgartown. From 5 to 7 pm, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, wreaths, and small works created by Martha’s Vineyard Art Association artists. All proceeds from the “Deck the Walls” event contribute to the MVAA’s scholarship fund, adding a touch of artistic flair to your holiday festivities.
As the sun sets, the anticipation builds for the highlight of the evening—the annual lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse. Commencing at Memorial Wharf at 5:30 pm, the atmosphere is imbued with the spirit of the season. Edgartown’s favorite mascots, non-profit concessions, caroling, and perhaps a visit from the Man In Red himself create a joyous prelude to the main event at 6 pm.
For those seeking an elevated experience, Bettini Restaurant at the Harbor View Hotel offers reservations for a prime viewing spot. The lights on the Edgartown Lighthouse flicker to life, casting a warm glow that marks the official commencement of Christmas in Edgartown.
Cap off the enchanting day with the Minnesingers Annual Family Holiday Concert at the Old Whaling Church at 8 pm. This benefit concert supports the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School choral group, Minnesingers, and the Vineyard Preservation Trust, responsible for maintaining some of the Vineyard’s most prized properties including the Flying Horses Carousel. In its 31st year at The Old Whaling Church, this concert promises an evening of festive melodies. For ticket reservations, call 508–627–4440 or visit https://vineyardtrust.org/events.
Saturday, December 9, 2023: Santa Claus Comes to Town
Morning to Afternoon: Edgartown Parade, Holiday Markets, and Charitable Experiences
The sheer abundance of delightful events crammed into a single day makes it nearly impossible to capture them all. However, we’ve curated a selection of particularly enticing options to give you some ideas of how to spend your Saturday.
Make sure you don’t miss the parade! Main Street comes alive with the annual parade on Saturday, December 9th at 11 am. Enjoy floats adorned with festive cheer, there will be a MINI Cooper with bears from the Teddy Bear Suite, and of course, keep an eager eye out for the star of the show—Santa himself. Come rain or shine, this lively procession unfolds along Main Street, creating a joyous atmosphere between Pease’s Point Way and Water Street.
The day kicks off with a festive Patio Party at SALTE from 10 am to 4 pm. Join the celebration at SALTE, where seasonal sips, sounds, and shopping await! The Cocktail Caravan will be serving festive drinks, and local knitter Zoe Thompson will showcase her hand-knit hats from 12-3 pm, including the opportunity for bespoke orders.
Simultaneously, the Edgartown Patrolman’s Association hosts the Stuff-A-Bus event from 10 am to 4 pm at the Lower Main Street Parking Lot. Join the Edgartown Police Department in bringing joy to island families this season by donating gifts. All toys collected will be donated to the Red Stocking Fund, ensuring that the holiday spirit reaches local families. Also consider participating in Toys for Tots at The Black Dog, running from 10 am on Friday to 7 pm on Saturday. Donate new unwrapped toys for the local toy collection campaign and receive a 20% discount on your purchase.
From 10 am to 3 pm, the Edgartown Village Green transforms into a winter wonderland with the Holiday Faire, presented by Edgartown Village Market. This European-style Christmas market features over 20 local vendors offering one-of-a-kind artisanal goods. Warm up in the tented beer garden while enjoying live music, seasonal food, and drinks. Libations will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting local non-profits.
Head to Nevin Square to experience Candy Cane Lane, a new feature for the kiddos! This winter wonderland for kids offers a craft fair, activities, s’mores, and much more from 12 to 3 pm.
Then there’s the 30th Annual Christmas in Edgartown Art & Crafts Festival which takes place from 10 am to 4 pm at the Edgartown School. This long-standing tradition showcases the work of Island artists and craftspeople. Enjoy free parking on-site, food concessions provided by the 8th Grade Class, and the opportunity to find unique holiday gifts. The festival benefits the Edgartown School Class of 2024.
Late Afternoon and Evening: Illuminate Mytoi & Sip Hot Chocolate
From 4 pm to 6:30 pm, experience the magical Illuminate Mytoi event at on Chappaquiddick. Embrace the warmth of the holiday season with a self-guided walk through the luminary-lit Mytoi Japanese garden. Reflect on the year since the last solstice, share wishes for the coming year, and tie your messages to the winding bridge to share with others. Hot cocoa will be served throughout the event. The Trustees provide free van pick-up on the half-hour from the Chappy side of the Chappy ferry.
After a visit to Chappy, walk off the ferry and head to the nearby Pelican Club, reopening especially for Christmas in Edgartown! From 4 pm to 8 pm, hosted by the new Faraway Hotel Martha’s Vineyard, enjoy cocktails, hot chocolate, warm cider, and the festive atmosphere, and make sure to dress warmly.
Sunday, December 10, 2023: Festive Fun for the Whole Family
Morning: Holiday Hustle 5K Walk or Run
Kick off your Sunday with the spirited “Holiday Hustle” 5K Walk or Run, hosted by the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club from 8:45 to 9:45 am. Open to all ages and fitness levels, this lively 5K course winds through downtown Edgartown. Embrace the holiday spirit by donning your festive attire—awards await the best-dressed participants. Feel free to bring your furry friends and little ones in strollers for a joyous morning of community fitness. All proceeds directly support the invaluable work of the Martha’s Vineyard Boys and Girls Club.
From 9 am to 12 pm, the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club transforms into a winter wonderland for the Pancake Breakfast with Santa. Join the culinary team for a delightful family-friendly meal and engaging kids’ activities. Cap off the Christmas in Edgartown weekend with this festive gathering.
Afternoon: Artists In Residence at Faraway Martha’s Vineyard & Sweater Contest
Also from 10 am to 3 pm, immerse yourself in the first “Artists in Residence Holiday Market” at Faraway Hotel. Inspired by the beautifully produced “Vineyard Folk” book by Tamara Weiss and Amanda Benchley, this market showcases the talents of Martha’s Vineyard artisans. Faraway Hotel, a proud sponsor of Christmas In Edgartown, provides a charming backdrop for exploring unique holiday finds.
Stop by Nell throughout the day to flaunt your finest, festive holiday sweater in Nell’s Annual Holiday Sweater Contest. The chance to win a $250 gift card adds an extra layer of excitement to this delightful showcase of holiday style.
Where to Eat for Christmas in Edgartown
Edgartown, typically a haven of summer charm, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Amidst the festive flurry of shopping, charity events, and crafting, we deliberately saved the dining discussion for last. After all, what’s a holiday weekend without the delight of savoring delicious meals at local restaurants? We have included a few of the culinary offerings awaiting you during this enchanting Christmas in Edgartown weekend below:
1. Alchemy’s Saturday Luncheon
- Date and Time: Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 am to 2 pm
- Overview: Alchemy, a culinary gem in Edgartown, will be serving a special Saturday luncheon during the festivities. Indulge in a delightful menu curated to capture the essence of the season. Check out the menu for a sneak peek into the gastronomic delights that await.
2. Bettini’s Lighting of the Lighthouse
- Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 8, 6 pm
- Overview: Make your reservations at Bettini for a front-row seat on the veranda to witness the enchanting Lighting of the Lighthouse. Delight in Bettini’s winter menu featuring holiday-inspired dishes and cocktails, adding a touch of magic to your dining experience.
3. Newes from America All Weekend
- Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 8 – Sun. Dec. 10, 12 – 9 PM
- Overview: Embrace the festive spirit at Newe’s from America at the Faraway with double wooden nickels on all draft beer purchases throughout the weekend. Plus, there’s a special treat for the little ones – free hot apple cider or hot chocolate for children of all ages.
4. Rosewater Market’s Breakfast All Day
- Date and Time: Sunday, Dec. 10, 7 am to 2 pm
- Overview: Indulge in the magic of an all-day breakfast at Rosewater Market. Open throughout the day with holiday specials, it’s a haven for those seeking a cozy and festive brunch experience.
5. Town MV’s Dinner with Black Infusions
- Date and Time: Thurs. Dec. 7, 5 PM
- Overview: Experience a tantalizing four-course holiday-themed cocktail dinner featuring the exquisite flavors of Black Infusions at Town MV. A culinary journey that promises to elevate your festive spirits.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of dining options for the weekend. We suggest you view the full list of open restaurants, special food-related events, and a town map here!
Another extra special element of Christmas in Edgartown is the opportunity to take the Hyline ferry from Hyannis straight into Edgartown harbor, a truly unique experience that only comes about during Christmas in Edgartown! We are eagerly awaiting the 42nd Annual Christmas in Edgartown, a weekend brimming with holiday spirit! From lively fundraisers to quaint local pop-ups and artisan markets, Edgartown is gearing up for a festive transformation. While we’ve given you a sneak peek of what’s to come, the real magic lies in experiencing it firsthand. With countless events awaiting discovery, we invite you to explore our curated highlights and, for a comprehensive list, head to the official Christmas in Edgartown website. Get ready to immerse yourself in the joys of the season, and let the countdown to the weekend begin!
