30th Annual Tivoli Day

Posted September 13, 2007

Saturday, Oak Bluffs will celebrate Tivoli Day, a day of festivities named for the building that once stood on the site of the present day Oak Bluffs police station.

The Tivoli building was constructed in 1917, and until it was demolished in the early '60s, it was a hub of town activity. Besides housing the town hall, the downstairs floor hosted a number of private businesses. At various points these included a soda fountain, a shooting gallery, an ice cream parlor, and a taxi stand. The expansive second story was used as a dance hall for years; in the 1940s, it became a roller rink, and in the '50s, professional wrestling matches drew sell-out crowds.

The 30th anniversary of Tivoli Day is dedicated to two well-known Islanders whose deaths as young men touched Vineyarders near and far. Ed Coogan, a beloved teacher, selectman, and lawyer, and Michael Wild, a conservation advocate, Martha's Vineyard Commission leader and irrepressible Island character, conceived the idea of a day of celebration after Labor Day, for Islanders and visitors to have fun without the mid-summer crowds.

The first Tivoli Day included a bicycle race around Circuit Avenue, and Ocean Park and a block dance. In 1978, the Oak Bluffs Business Association became involved. Bill and Margaret Stafursky promoted the first 50-mile around the Island bike race. It was an exciting event ending at Ocean Park. Later festivities included a blessing of the fleet, a local bike race for adults and children, a band concert and croquet games.

Thirty years later, the Tivoli Day fun continues with lots of food, music, sales, and raffles.

Tivoli Day Schedule of Events

Saturday, 11 am to 6 pm (rain date, Sunday, Sept. 16)

Circuit Avenue will be closed to traffic 9 am to 6 pm

Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, plus Tall Richard and the Vineyard Voodoo Kings.
Music begins at 1 pm.

5th annual Kid's Parade
Prizes will be awarded to registered participants
(children 10 and under accompanied by an adult).
Registration begins at 11 am at the information booth.

The parade begins at noon up Circuit Avenue.
Categories include decorated strollers, bicycles, wagons, walkers and carriages.

Kite flying and kite demonstrations with master kite flyer Archie Stewart at Ocean Park.

Face Painting by the Plum Hill School

Antique Bike show and riding demonstrations by the Wheelmen.

Wait Person Olympics
The winning team receives a trophy and bragging rights

Capt. Jack Sparrow and his Pirate Ship

Climbing wall

Oak Bluffs Fire truck

WMVY Radio 92.7FM will broadcast live from 11 am to 1 pm