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Martha’s Vineyard A-Z Glossary: 61 Essential Terms Every Visitor Should Know

ByMaria Heffernan Hours Posted on

Ever wondered what ‘Up-Island’ really means or why the Flying Horses Carousel is a must-visit? I’ve got you covered with a comprehensive, A-Z glossary of unique Martha’s Vineyard lingo and beloved local landmarks.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or are a seasoned Vineyard veteran, this guide is your key to learning local terms and discovering unmissable events and activities on Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard Glossary of Terms

  1. The Ag Fair: Taking place in August, this is one of the island’s biggest events of the year. A traditional agricultural fair with competitions, carnival and local crafts and food market running for over 160 years.
  2. Aquinnah Cliffs: Colorful clay cliffs in Aquinnah, a notable natural landmark.
  3. ArtCliff Diner: A famous diner in Vineyard Haven known for its breakfast and brunch.
  4. Brass Ring: Get a free ride on the Flying Horses Carousel if you catch this!
  5. Chappaquiddick (Chappy): A small island off the eastern end of Martha’s Vineyard.
  6. Chappy Ferry: The ferry service connecting Chappaquiddick Island to Martha’s Vineyard.
  7. Chilmark Chocolates: A beloved, now-closed local chocolate shop.
  8. Christmas in Edgartown: A festive annual event celebrating the holiday season.
  9. Circuit Avenue: A popular street in Oak Bluffs, known for shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
  10. Dike Bridge: The location of the “Chappaquiddick Incident”, where U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, drove his car off the bridge, leading to the drowning of Mary Jo Kopechne.
  11. East Chop Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse in Oak Bluffs.
  12. Edgartown Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse and popular attraction on a beautiful beach.
  13. Edgartown Race Weekend: A prestigious annual yacht racing event.
  14. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary: A Mass Audubon site with trails, nature programs and a summer camp for kids.
  15. Farm Neck Golf Club: A renowned golf course in Oak Bluffs.
  16. Five Corners: A notorious intersection in Vineyard Haven where 5 roads converge and no one is quite sure what they should be doing. Go slow and don’t panic đŸ™‚
  17. Flying Horses Carousel: The oldest operating platform carousel in America, located in Oak Bluffs.
  18. Gay Head Cliffs: Also known as Aquinnah Cliffs.
  19. Gingerbread Cottages: The ornate, historical homes in the Campground area.
  20. Grand Illumination Night: A vibrant, annual Oak Bluffs event featuring lantern-lit cottages.
  21. Harborview Hotel: A historic and iconic hotel in Edgartown.
  22. Island Grown Initiative: A local organization promoting sustainable agriculture.
  23. Island Queen Ferry: A popular ferry service to the island, from Falmouth.
  24. Island Time: A local expression referring to the relaxed pace of life on the island.
  25. Jaws Bridge: The bridge at Joseph Sylvia State Beach, famous from the movie “Jaws.” Take a Jaws tour and see it up-close!
  26. Katama: A region in Edgartown known for its airfield and South Beach.
  27. Lambert’s Cove Beach: A secluded, residents-only beach in West Tisbury. Open to non-residents in the off-season and well worth a visit.
  28. Lobsterville: A beach and fishing area in Aquinnah.
  29. Lucy Vincent Beach: A picturesque, residents-only beach in Chilmark. Clothing optional in some parts!
  30. Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival: An annual festival celebrating African American cinema.
  31. Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival: An annual event showcasing films from around the world.
  32. Martha’s Vineyard Museum: A museum dedicated to the island’s history and culture.
  33. Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby: A famous annual fishing tournament that takes place during September and October.
  34. Menemsha: A small fishing village known for its sunset views and seafood.
  35. Noepe: The original Native American name for Martha’s Vineyard.
  36. Oak Bluffs Camp Meeting Association (Campground): A historic area with hundreds of colorful, ornate gingerbread cottages.
  37. Oak Bluffs Fireworks: An annual spectacular fireworks display in Oak Bluffs in August.
  38. Oak Bluffs Harbor: A bustling harbor area with marinas, dining, and entertainment.
  39. Old Whaling Church: A historic church and event venue in Edgartown.
  40. Polly Hill Arboretum: A public garden and arboretum in West Tisbury.
  41. Quahog: A hard clam found along the island’s coast and used to make chowder.
  42. Sengekontacket Pond: A large salt pond between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. Great for kayaking!
  43. South Beach: A popular public beach in the Katama area of Edgartown.
  44. Steamship Authority: The main ferry service to the island and the only way to bring your car. Reservations essentials for cars, not needed for foot passengers.
  45. Tabernacle: A historic iron structure in Oak Bluffs.
  46. The Black Dog: A famous tavern and clothing brand originating from Martha’s Vineyard.
  47. The Blinker: The only traffic light on Martha’s Vineyard. Controversially replaced by a roundabout in 2013
  48. The Lookout: A favorite spot to grab a drink and a lobster roll while waiting for the boat.
  49. The Shanty: Short for The Seafood Shanty, a popular, family-friendly restaurant for casual dining
  50. The Vineyard: A common nickname for Martha’s Vineyard.
  51. The Yard: A dance and performance art colony in Chilmark.
  52. Tisbury: The official name for the town often referred to as Vineyard Haven.
  53. Trustees of Reservations: A nonprofit organization managing several key properties and beaches on the island. Get your OSV permits from them.
  54. Up-Island and Down-Island: Geographical terms to describe different parts of the island. Up-Island refers to the western, more rural towns of Aquinnah, Chilmark, and West Tisbury. Down-Island covers the eastern, more populous towns of Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven.
  55. Vineyard Haven Harbor: The main port for the island. Steamship Authority ferry arrives here year-round
  56. Vineyard Sound: The body of water between Martha’s Vineyard and the mainland. Not to be confused with THE Vineyard sound, Martha’s Vineyard’s Finest A Cappella Group
  57. Vineyard Vines: A popular clothing brand that started on the island.
  58. Wampum: Beads and jewellery stones made by the Wampanoag tribe from the shell of the Quahog. Usually purple and white in color.
  59. Wampanoag Tribe: The Native American tribe indigenous to Martha’s Vineyard.
  60. West Chop Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse, located in Vineyard Haven.
  61. West Tisbury Farmers Market: A popular local market for fresh produce and goods.

Now you’re armed with this extensive Martha’s Vineyard glossary, you’re ready for your visit. Learn any new terms I haven’t added? Let me know in the Martha’s Vineyard Travel Tips group. Have a great trip!

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Maria Heffernan

Maria is a mom of two and passionate traveler who loves to share her knowledge and experience from over two decades of exploring Martha's Vineyard. She is on a mission to help others have unforgettable, magical trips to this beautiful island.