Edgartown was alive with the sound of music this past weekend thanks to the third annual Porchfest. I’d like to give a standing ovation not only to the performers, but also to the leadership at the Edgartown Board of Trade, and specifically to Jared Salvatore, for putting together such a diverse and interesting lineup of local artists! It was also the first real weekend in town where every two steps you’d stop to say hello to a friend you haven’t seen all winter long. It’s one of the many reasons that this town is so special — the close-knit community and deep relationships we make are truly outstanding, and unlike anywhere else I’ve lived.
On Saturday, May 23, don’t miss showstopping sales from local clothing stores in one convenient location,the Great Edgartown Sidewalk Sale, happening from 10 am to 4 pm! Bring cash, as some vendors will not be able to process credit cards or accept checks. At the Edgartown Village Green, 12 North Water St.; see you there!
Two book signings happening at Edgartown Books this coming weekend: “The Summer of Second Chances” by K.L. Walther signing is happening on May 23 from 2 to 4 pm, and “Morning Glory Girl” by Maria Anne Lenihan signing is the next day, May 24, also from 2 to 4 pm.
Looking to see some art this weekend? “Eclose” is a Memorial Day exhibition at the Eisenhauer Gallery on May 23 from 6 to 8 pm. Featuring Janine Robertson’s crashing waves, Ekaterina Medvedok’s tender blooms, Elizabeth Lennie’s odes to summer, Aidan Weichard’s dynamic bouquets, Cheri Christensen’s sun-drenched pastoral scenes, Gemma Di Grazia’s elegant still lifes, Anne Harney’s oysters, and Santiago Garcia’s whimsical animals, this is nature in its most hopeful state. Guests are invited to sip on celebratory libations, mingle with artists and fellow collectors, and explore a thoughtfully curated selection of works that reflect the joy, resilience, and ever-expanding vision of Eisenhauer Gallery.
Our local Edgartown restaurants, the ones that take a little winter nap, are mostly back open and ready to welcome the Memorial Day weekend crowds. 19 Raw, Atria, Atlantic, Bad Martha, Behind the Bookstore, Ben & Bills, the Dunes, Fish House, Ice Cream & Candy Bazaar, L’Etoile, and Mad Martha’s are all back. Don’t forget to also thank those year-round places that stay open for us through the dead of winter — shout-out to Bettini, Cozy Corner, Edgartown Meat & Fish, Espresso Love, Indigo, Morning Glory Farm, the Newes, Rockfish, Town, Wicked Burger, and more — we are so thankful you kept us fed this winter!
Every Memorial Day, I am reminded that the best thing we can do to honor the people we have lost is to live fully and love generously. In a town that knows something about community, loss, and showing up for one another, that sentiment seems like the perfect way to start the season. To all military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, there are not enough words to thank you. May your friends and family be held by the prayers of our community, today and always.
