The last two weeks of August, here we go! Last week was packed with all the fair fun, and this week is an all-Island celebration with the Oak Bluffs fireworks and Illumination Night. Just because I’m the Edgartown columnist doesn’t mean I can ignore these incredible events happening 15 minutes (or 40 minutes, depending on traffic) from us — so make sure to plan your calendar around those fun events and join in the community fun! Here’s what’s happening in Edgartown this week:
On August 24, discover “Inside Edgartown Lighthouse: Keepers, Families, and History” starting at 4 pm at Cooke House & Legacy Gardens. Join Deborah Medders for a closer look at the stories behind the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse. From its origins in Ipswich and relocation to Edgartown Harbor to the keepers and families who lived there, this talk explores how the lighthouse became a defining part of the Island’s maritime landscape.
Later that day from 5 to 8 pm, everyone’s favorite little “Townie” is turning 6 — cheers to Violet! Join her and the entire Town crew for a groovy end-of-summer bash. Kids, grownups, families, friends — everyone’s invited! They’ll have face painting, flower crowns, sweet treats, food specials, cocktails, mocktails, and more!
On August 25, from 4 to 6 pm, join Morning Glory Farm for its Bluesday Tuesdays: live blues music featuring Jeremy Berlin and Delanie Pickering. Bring a lawn chair, browse the farmstand, and spend the afternoon listening to great live blues in a beautiful setting. This week’s menu is Mexican-inspired, and crafted from locally grown produce!
On August 29, it’s “Can You Dig It: Quahog Harvesting,” with the Edgartown shellfish department starting at 9:30 am. Join them at the Katama Landing, where you will get a chance to learn techniques for harvesting shellfish from the constables of the Edgartown shellfish department. You do not need a shellfish license to attend and observe, but a shellfish license is required for hands-on experience with harvesting and taking home quahogs. Licenses can be purchased online. Registration is required.
For those looking for something crafty to do during the week, the Erica Wilson shop hosts a weekly “Sip ‘n Stitch” gathering every Thursday evening from 6 to 7:30 pm at 21 Kelly St. This free community event welcomes all skill levels to socialize, share needlepoint tips, and work on current projects over light refreshments.
I just came across the “Early Birders Walk” at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary. Walk the trails with experienced guides as you search for songbirds, raptors, and seasonal visitors. Practice using binoculars, sharpen identification skills, and count species along the way. This program builds appreciation for the Vineyard’s avian biodiversity and the conservation efforts that protect vital bird habitats. Registration is required.
There’s plenty of other events happening through the end of summer, so make sure to let me know about them by emailing me at marnely@gmail.com. Here’s your reminder that the VTA buses are still free, so leave your car at home and catch the bus! It’s a sustainable and community-friendly way to support the VTA.
Happy Birthday to Peter Graves on the 24th! Have a birthday or anniversary coming up? Send them my way! Cheers to having one more month of summer left — don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
