Category Archives: Events

Reality TV Comes to MV

loveintheafternoon

Image by Kevin Dooley

Casting for 19 to 28 year olds is in full swing for a Docu-Soap coming to Martha’s Vineyard. This is big news, as the L.A. production company is planning to air this show on primetime via the CW network this fall after filming this summer.

According to the Martha’s Vineyard Times newspaper the premise for the Docu-Soap is ‘the usual’ – just see for yourself:

“There are moments in life that change who you are – one summer that defines you.” That’s the way 25/7 Productions, the Los Angeles-based production company that created such shows as NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” and TLC’s “A Model Life,” puts it. And, “New friends are made, others fade away, lust simmers, and sometimes, mistakes are made with no regret. But one thing is for sure, you’ll never forget your summer on The Vineyard.”

So far, the response around the island has been mostly negative, citing exploitation and the creation of more mindless fluff – not to mention a totally unrealistic snapshot of the island.

But, some folks are pretty excited – hoping the exposure will bring a much needed economic bump during less than great economic times.

I’m seeing both sides – but to combat the negative (and the worry), I’m hoping that they really pull through and somehow they’re able to capture some of the magic that happens here every summer…and all the time – to create a great series that showcases the best of the what the Vineyard has to offer to the world.

Village Spotlight: Edgartown



Image courtesy of asterix611

Before Martha’s Vineyard was an extraordinary summer vacation destination, it was a whaling industry mecca. And, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Edgartown was the whaling hub.

Built around the whaling trade, hundreds of whaling captains constructed beautiful, stately homes in the center of town – along with the picturesque Whaling Church – and today they provide the refined and historical look of the town.

Mainstreet and the close-knit downtown area is full of boutiques, cafes, restaurants, movie theater – along old brick sidewalks. True to the Vineyard, you won’t find any box stores or chains – this is shopping at its one-of-a kind best.

Make sure you make your way down to the harbor…full of beautiful boats and one of the most gorgeous lighthouses I’ve ever seen, the Edgartown Lighthouse, of course.

But, on those sunny days, I suggest you hightail it out of town and head to the beach. You have a few to choose from, but my top picks are:

  • South Beach (surf side) for great waves out in Katama (pronounced Kuh-TAY-muh). Katama is part of Edgartown and it features its own bay and a super beachy feel.
  • State Beach (sound side) is a great kids beach because you can wade right in without worrying about big waves. Also, the trip from car to towel is pretty short which I know is important when you’ve got little ones.

The bike path goes right through town, out to the beach or lets you explore miles of the island through towns and the state forest. Oh, and if you head up-island on the bike trail, make sure to stop at Morning Glory Farm – a wonderful local farm filled with just picked produce, salads, soups and luscious baked goods.

Edgartown is also home to some huge fundraising galas every summer – a great place to really get to know the community and give back to this special island. The most famous, perhaps, is the Possible Dreams Auction where incredible dreams are donated and auctioned off to the highest bidder – all to benefit Martha’s Vineyard Community Services.

Edgartown has the best of both worlds – the hustle and bustle of town and the soulful quiet of the waterfront…

Welcoming the Holidays Edgartown Style

Edgartown Lighthouse at Christmas, by David Welch

Christmas in Edgartown weekend is my favorite way to get into the holiday spirit.  This is the 26th year we have been celebrating the weekend event.  It will be held on December 11-14, 2008.  There are so many activities for everyone!  The weekend is packed to entertain and enthrall adults and children alike.

My favorite event is the Evening of Enchantment at Donaroma’s Nursery just outside Edgartown center.  It is a stunning display that families big and small can enjoy at no charge.  They also offer boxwood tree and wreath decorating session throughout the weekend with a charge for supplies.

Donaroma's Nursery, Christmas in Edgartown

The streets of town are decorated, the shop owners welcome visitors with holiday cheer and you can even find some unique and special gifts to tick off your holiday shopping lists.

Minnesingers Holiday Concert, by David Welch

The mini singer concert is offered on Friday evening and Sunday afternoon at the Old Whaling Church right downtown.  It will truly warm even the grichiest of hearts.   Visit the Edgartown Board of Trade website to see a full schedule for the weekend.