Summer 2020 on Martha’s Vineyard is an unusual summer, and this may be the year you have to celebrate July 4th in your back yard, but it can still be a great Holiday weekend.
The Coronavirus pandemic has certainly affected the Island, as it has the rest of the world. Not one person can say it hasn’t impacted them in some way.
But, summer on Martha’s Vineyard is happening in spite of the global pandemic. Business continues, and everywhere you look, people are taking precautions to ward off the spread of Coronavirus—to stay safe and at the same time continue to run their business.
Most all Island businesses require a face mask to enter their establishment. Some are doing curbside pick up. When visiting Island establishments, you’ll notice signs reminding you to practice the current social distancing protocols, wear a mask, and wash your hands often. Many places have indicated the 6ft recommended spacing with markings on the floor, from the post office, to Cronig’s Grocery store, and the MV Museum, and many others. The museum has even painted 6ft markers on their lawn to view their outdoor exhibits, and it’s well worth a visit.
Many restaurants have opened back up, with socially distant seating, and outdoor dining. A few of our favorites are Noman’s located in Oak Bluffs, with plenty of outdoor seating, and great for families with kids too. Each table is at least 6 ft from the next, and has a six person (same party group) limit. Another is The Port Hunter, on Main Street, Edgartown, now open for business with indoor and outdoor dining available 5:30 – 10:00 Tuesday-Sunday. You can make a reservation with resy.com the reservation online booking system. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from Island-wide, with a bigger selection of restaurants in the down-Island towns, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven.
Massachusetts Gov. Baker plans to initiate Phase three beginning Monday, July 6 whereby Fitness Centers, museums, and movie theaters have the green light to reopen — with restrictions. For a full overview read more on The Martha’s Vineyard Times. The article mentions the reopening of the MV Film Center, The MV Museum, and more. Governor Baker also states that visitors from New England, New York, New Jersey are no longer required to self-quarantine when visiting Massachusetts.
Suggestions to enjoy your visit to Martha’s Vineyard
Dine out at one of the many restaurants, go to the beaches, stop for ice cream, go to the West Tisbury Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays 9-12, located at the Agricultural Hall in West Tisbury. Take a tour up-Island and visit the Aquinnah Cliffs, grab that Vineyard book you always meant to read and go to the beach, kayak on Sengekontacket, hike the many beautiful Island trails, check out the Virtual Vineyard Artisans Festivals. Check your local papers, The Martha’s Vineyard Times, and the Vineyard Gazette for event listings, there are many things still going on.
While we are glad for the cautious reopening of businesses this summer – the main summer events remain cancelled.
These include Edgartown’s July 4th Fireworks and Parade, Beach Road Weekend Music Festival, The MV Summer Film Series – though. They plan to host some drive-in movies, Illumination Night, The Agricultural Fair, Oak Bluffs Fireworks, the Martha’s Vineyard Oyster Fest. The resilience, respect, and support for others reopening during these uncertain times in this wonderful Island community is astounding.
Up-to-date events and cancelations, are listed on the Vineyard Gazette Calendar.
Please continue to observe social distancing, and wear a face-mask. Be safe, be kind.
