Martha’s Vineyard in December: 16 Festive Reasons to visit in Winter

Worried it might be too quiet in winter, or that everything’s closed? If you’re considering a trip to Martha’s Vineyard in December and wondering if the holiday festivities match the summer’s energy, I’ve got good news for you!

What makes December special is how the island’s pace changes throughout the month, offering something for every type of visitor. Choose between festive holiday events or peaceful off-season exploration – or enjoy both.

Plus, it’s an affordable time to visit, with lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds. Whether you’re visiting for romantic holiday experiences, family-friendly festivities, or just looking for a peaceful winter getaway, I’ll guide you through planning the perfect December visit.

What to do on Martha’s Vineyard in December

There’s plenty to keep you busy this month. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

1. Christmas in Edgartown

When: December 11th-14th 2025 | Where: Edgartown

The island’s biggest winter celebration takes place from December 11th-14th this year. Get ready for  Edgartown’s transformation into a winter wonderland. Skip straight down to my detailed guide on this fun-filled weekend!

2. Get Outside for a Winter Beach Walk

When: December 2025 | Where: Island-wide

From my experience, the beaches on Martha’s Vineyard in the winter are magical. No crowds, just you, the waves and a crisp breeze to clear the head. Lambert’s Cove and Lucy Vincent are particularly beautiful beaches in winter light. 

Edgartown Lighthouse Beach is also a great spot in December, especially if you have a dog with you or if you want to get some pics of the beautifully decorated lighthouse. 

Fair warning though – island winds can make it feel much colder than the temperature suggests, so layer up. If you can brave the cold, you’re in the perfect place for epic sunrises and sunsets. Savor this rare chance to enjoy the beauty of the island without crowds.

3. Take part in a Glass Float Treasure Hunt 

When: TBC December 2025 | Where: Island-wide

A couple of times a year, Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation hides gorgeous glass floats along acres of trails all over the island. One of the hunts is usually in December although a 2025 date has not yet been announced.

I find it hard to convince my children to come on a hike sometimes, but if I tell them it’s a treasure hunt…. watch them run for the door! 65 handcrafted pieces from MV Glassworks are carefully tucked along public trails, waiting to be discovered. 

I like to use the free TrailsMV app to navigate the properties – it tells you where the trails begin, shows parking info and details about the terrain. Even if you don’t find a float (We’re still trying!) you are guaranteed some excellent wildlife spotting opportunities and stunning woodland or coastal views.

4. Go on a Full Moon Owl Prowl

When: December 12th 2025 | Where: Edgartown

Take a moonlit walk through the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary to look for owls flying through the woods and over the fields. You’ll listen out for their calls and get to learn all about these intriguing birds from a Mass Audubon instructor.

Get there a little early and check out the fascinating exhibits about the local eco-system, wildlife and plants in the visitors center

5. Dickensian Christmas Village at the Carnegie 

When: Through December 19th 2025 | Where: Edgartown

The Carnegie is offering a reimagined version of their beloved annual tradition this December. The “Dickens Village Vignettes” will feature scenes from the extensive Victorian miniature collection in the reading rooms and shelves of the Heritage Center.

The Carnegie is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-4pm with a suggested $5 donation.

I recommend taking time to explore the rest of this beautifully preserved museum. I thought the 1876 Flying Horses chariot prototype exhibit was particularly special.

I think the map centerpiece on the lower floor is a must-see if you’re a first-time visitor to the island. The descriptions of each town will give you a great feel for the island and its history.

6. Donaroma’s Holiday Light Show 

When: December 2025 | Where: Edgartown

Park in Donaroma’s lot between 5-9pm, tune your car radio to 87.9 FM and enjoy the synchronized light display set to holiday music. This usually runs every night from early December through January 1st.

If you’re a cold creature like me, this is an ideal way to enjoy some festive cheer while staying cozy and warm in your car. Tip: go on a weeknight for your pick of the parking spaces.

7. Create a Seasonal Holiday Wreath 

When: December 2025 | Where: Edgartown

In 2024, two unique wreath-making experiences were available and hopefully they will be scheduled again for 2025. Donaroma’s workshops ($70-85) offered a classic florist-guided experience using materials like balsam, boxwood, moss, berries and pinecones.

The FARM Institute’s rustic wreath workshop ($40-50) worked with foraged greens and grapevine bases. Gardening gloves recommended in case of prickly greens!

8. ‘Tis The Season: Winter Wonderland in Vineyard Haven 

When: December 5th – 7th 2025 | Where: Vineyard Haven

Not to be outdone by Christmas in Edgartown, Vineyard Haven has a whole month of fun planned.

Details are still emerging but the 2025 line-up so far includes sleigh rides with Fred Fisher, a full bell choir, the Cape Cranberry Carollers and the MVRHS Minnesingers.

One of last year’s events which will hopefully be repeated was a First Friday celebration for families and kids with interactive crafts, snacks and live music at the MV Museum

There were also carolers travelling around town, horse-drawn carriage rides, late night shopping and visits with Santa at his workshop. Stay tuned for updates!

9. Honor the Memory of a Beloved Pet

When: December 6th 2025 | Where: Vineyard Haven

At the Black Dog’s Vineyard Haven campus (Beach St extension) you’ll find the Fur-Ever Memorial tree. This is a new annual event run by the Chamber of Commerce to raise funds for the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard and to remember treasured animal companions who have passed on.

Send a picture of your pet, their name and $10 cash or check to the Chamber of Commerce at PO Box 1568, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 by December 5th. Your photo will be laminated and hung on the tree in time for the tree lighting on December 6th.

10. Island Community Chorus Holiday Concert 

When: December 6th & 7th 2025 | Where: Edgartown

One of the island’s most wholesome winter traditions returns to the Old Whaling Church on December 6th (7.30pm) and 7th (3pm) 2025. There is a suggested donation of $20 and children go free.

The concert (directed by William Peek) is a joyful event with a mix of classical favorites and surprising arrangements – from Handel and Bach to jazzy Hanukkah tunes and the Christmas classics. Stay for the reception afterwards and meet the performers!

11. Holiday Fun at Island Libraries

When: December 2025 | Where: Island-wide

At the start of the month, Oak Bluffs Library holds their Annual Family Craft making adorable gnomes – all supplies provided. Their Friday drop-in holiday crafts continue all month, perfect for keeping little hands busy. 

My kids love the Oak Bluffs library and we often spend hours there. I recommend visiting here if you are travelling with kids and the weather is bad. There are games, play areas and of course, countless books.

Edgartown library hosts a seasonal craft event where they’ll provide all the supplies needed. Over in West Tisbury, don’t miss the holiday party, where you’ll find live music, refreshments, and family activities like holiday card-making and sensory snow experiments.

12. Warm up at Town MV’s Annual Cocktail Competition 

When: December 2025 | Where: Edgartown

This is a great way to kick off your Christmas in Edgartown weekend. Watch bartenders from restaurants and bars across the island demonstrate their expertise at Town MV’s annual cocktail competition – 2025 date TBC. 

Cocktails will be holiday-themed and samples will be on offer so you can taste all the festive concoctions. Expect some creative twists on holiday classics and plenty of fun at this lively mid-week event.

I really like the atmosphere at Town and we’ve had some great meals here and love trivia nights with Beach Jesus! There’s lots of parking at the back but it’s also just a short walk from downtown. 

13. Practice Some Off-Season Self-Care 

When: December 2025 | Where: Island-wide

I find December to be an exhausting month sometimes and it’s hard to remember to take a breather. Thankfully there are lots of options for wellness activities this month. 

You could start with Kaiut Yoga at Peaked Hill Studio in Chilmark. This practice is focused on joint mobility for lasting pain relief and flexibility. 

Yoga on the Vine has a serene Candlelight Yoga class and also offers daily Hot Vinyasa if you’re looking for something more energetic.

My favorite place to go is Aligned Pilates in Edgartown for reformer pilates with experienced and friendly instructors.

Families with young children can try Family Yoga at West Tisbury Library

14. Live Music at The Ritz

When: December 2025 | Where: Island-wide

The Ritz Café in Oak Bluffs always has a great line-up of music every single night in December. Things kick off each week with karaoke every Tuesday at 9 p.m.

The 2025 schedule has yet to be announced but in 2024, on Wednesdays, local favorites Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish played some classic blues and rock. On Thursdays you could catch Mike Benjamin and Jodie Treloar.

Last year, Fridays and Saturdays featured DJ AP and DJ Smooth B starting at 9 p.m. and 10 p.m., while The Black Eyed Susans played on Saturdays and The Holy Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival on Sundays from 8 to 10 p.m. 

15. Visit with Santa

When: December 2025 | Where: Island-wide

Santa makes several island appearances throughout December but dates are often not finalized until much closer to the time.

Confirmed so far, during Christmas in Edgartown weekend, he will be at The Covington right after the parade for a photo session.

Keep an eye on local listings for confirmed dates and additional locations – you never know where The Big Man will pop up next…

16. Create Personalized Holiday ormnaments

When: December 10th 2025 | Where: Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs

Feel like getting creative? Featherstone is hosting an art night workshop where you’ll craft a personalized metal ornament (star or pine tree) using hand-stamping techniques. You’ll learn sawing, filing, and finishing skills while working with brass or copper metal sheet.

The studio offers a variety of alphabet and decorative stamps to create a festive handmade keepsake. All materials included and no experience necessary—perfect for beginners wanting to try something new.

Christmas in Edgartown: December 11th-14th, 2025

You can find the full schedule on the Christmas in Edgartown Website and new events are regularly added. Let me walk you through the weekend’s highlights and share some tips for making the most of your visit.

Thursday Evening: The Magic Begins

Christmas in Edgartown kicks off with two distinct but equally festive events. You can join the Santa Fun Run through the downtown area – don’t worry if you don’t have your own costume, they provide the Santa hats! 

Then head to Donaroma’s for an “Evening of Enchantment – The Land of The Northern Lights“. The nursery will be transformed into a magical wonderland with holiday displays, kids’ activities, and a light show set to festive music.

Whenever I’m at Donaroma’s I usually combine it with a visit to Bad Martha’s Brewery, right next door. They have space heaters there in December, craft beers, and brick-oven pizza which is so delicious and in my opinion, the best pizza in Edgartown!

If you’re looking for a full dinner, Town MV across the street has a large menu and a big cozy fire. 

Also beginning this evening, Harbor View Hotel’s holiday carriage rides – these run throughout the weekend and are extremely popular. I recommend booking before you get to the island. You can’t book online so call the hotel directly on 508 627 7000.

Friday: Lighting the Lighthouse

On Friday the holiday excitement really starts to build with events across town, culminating in the Lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse.

This draws big crowds to Memorial Wharf for carols and a countdown, followed by the magical moment when the lights go on. 

When you’re up on Memorial Wharf, look out for the plaque that tells the fascinating story of Esther and her escape from a ship in the harbor. You can find out more on the 1 hour African American Heritage trail tours running all weekend.

Another ideal spot to see the lighting of the lighthouse is at The Harbor View Hotel. If you’re a guest there you can watch it from their porch – one of the best vantage points! Walking along North Water Street on the way to the hotel is magical at night, with bright, twinkling lights strung around lamp posts. 

Speaking of the Harbor View, they’re offering one of the weekend’s most fun experiences – horse-drawn carriage rides through Edgartown. Wrapped in warm throws and sipping hot cider, you’ll tour around the decorated homes, the village, Eel Pond and the harbor area. 

At 8pm, the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School choral group, Minnesingers will be performing their annual family holiday concert at the Old Whaling Church. The show repeats on Saturday at 4pm.

Saturday: The Main Event

Saturday morning is time for the Christmas Parade down Main Street. Bundle up with a hot coffee (I like Espresso Love or Rosewater) then find your spot to watch floats, music groups, and Santa himself waving to the crowds. 

Pro tip for parade parking: forget trying to park downtown. Instead, aim for the further away spots on School Street or Summer Street and enjoy the short stroll into town. 

After the parade, head to The Covington for photos with Santa, then take the kids to the Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt at the Carnegie and warm up with a hot chocolate (and all the toppings!) from their cart.

Later, take a walk through Candy Cane Lane (Nevin Square) where local businesses will have treats and activities on offer all afternoon

For serious shoppers, Saturday is your day. The Art & Crafts Festival is on at Edgartown School, and Handmade From The Heart holiday artisan fair takes place at the Daniel Fisher House.

The Holiday Faire returns to Edgartown Village Green with a European-style Christmas market featuring over 30 local artisans. You can browse unique handmade goods while enjoying hot cocoa, seasonal treats, and live music in the tented beer garden.

Sunday: Cozy Wind-Down

Start your Sunday morning by joining Friends of Sengekontacket at 8am for their annual Winter Beach Clean-Up at State Beach. Grab some gloves and a bag (all provided) and if you’re early, you might score one of their free Santa hats for the first 25 volunteers—plus hot chocolate and donuts to warm you up after.

Throughout Sunday, lots of the weekend’s displays and activities continue, but with smaller crowds. It’s your last chance to visit the Art & Craft Festival, or simply wander the quieter streets with a hot drink in hand. 

Shopping on Martha’s Vineyard in December

December is the season for holiday markets on the island. Check out my holiday gift guide for some inspiration.

Aquinnah Artisans Holiday Fair (Date TBC December 2025)

The fair at Aquinnah Town Hall celebrates Native American craftsmanship and local artistry. You’ll find authentic wampum jewelry, Gay Head Clay pottery, and traditional Native crafts alongside contemporary pieces like scallop shell lights and crocheted snowflakes. 

Don’t miss the treats from Orange Peel Bakery – croissants are one of their specialties but I highly recommend trying the incredible brownie – soft and fudgy in the center with a light, crisp crust.

Featherstone Holiday Gift Show (Through December 17th 2025)

This annual show is your go-to for unique gifts and the talent and creativity of local islanders is fully on display here. Open daily from 12-4pm, you’ll find everything from affordable stocking stuffers to significant art investments. 

Pro tip: visit on one of the days when they offer extended evening hours (7pm) for a quieter shopping experience.

World Market Holiday Pop-Up (Date TBC December 2025)

This pop-up at the Capawock Theater on Main Street in Vineyard Haven has a mix of international crafts and fair trade items from places like Guatemala, Haiti, and Nepal. You’ll definitely find something unique and also get to supports artisans worldwide.

West Tisbury Winter Farmers Market (Date TBC December 2025)

Usually an outdoor event, the market moves indoors to The Agricultural Hall in West Tisbury for December. Open from 9am-12pm, you can pick up fresh produce, island-made food gifts, preserves, woolens, and crafts.

I usually make a bee-line straight for the Pie-Chicks table. Strawberry Rhubarb is my favorite but there are NO wrong choices when it comes to a Pie-Chicks pie!

Vineyard Artisans Holiday Fair (December 21st 2025)

This final market of the year is at The Grange Hall and features hand-crafted items from island artisans. Look for turned wooden pieces from Chappaquiddick Wood Company, unique book arts, and local jewelry. Free admission and parking, plus local food vendors on-site.

Tips for shopping Martha’s Vineyard Holiday Markets:

• Some vendors accept credit cards but some prefer cash so have some on hand.
• Bring bags to carry home your purchases
• Early birds get the best selection, especially for the one-of-a-kind items

Top Tips for Visiting Martha’s Vineyard in December

• Time Your Visit to Your Vibe – Visit the first week of December for peaceful beach walks and crowd-free shopping, or come mid-month to capture the holiday buzz.  Just remember that some businesses reduce their hours significantly from mid-month.
  
• Double-Check Opening Hours – Winter schedules can be unpredictable. Be sure to check on social media or make a quick phone call to save yourself from disappointment.
  
• Balance Indoor and Outdoor Plans – December weather calls for flexible planning. For every outdoor activity, have an indoor backup in-mind. 
  
• Consider Your Transportation -While you can certainly enjoy the island without a car, having one gives you more flexibility during the off-season. Reservations for vehicles are easier to get than summer (except during Christmas in Edgartown weekend), and finding parking is not a problem. Book your ferry spot early or better yet, rent a car on the island.
  
• Prepare for Winter Weather – Expect classic New England winter weather in December. Keep an eye on forecasts, and familiarize yourself with cancellation policies for accommodations and activities. 

How to get to Martha’s Vineyard in December

Your main transportation option in December is the Steamship Authority ferry running between Woods Hole and Vineyard Haven. The good news? The ferries run fairly reliably throughout winter, and you’ll find better availability and lower rates for cars than in peak season. 

The exception being during Christmas in Edgartown weekend when getting a car reservation can be as tricky as during the summer! If you can’t get a reservation, you can always rent a car on the island, take a taxi or use Uber. 

Don’t forget about the excellent local busses though. They’re comfortable, warm and reliable, although run at a reduced frequency at this time of year.  

Ferry to Martha’s Vineyard in Winter

The Steamship Authority ferries are the only ones running daily in December. If you’re bringing a car, book your spot well in advance, especially for Christmas in Edgartown. Do keep an eye on weather forecasts – winter storms occasionally affect schedules.

For foot passengers, there’s no need to make reservations or select a particular sailing, Your ticket is good for any sailing for two years after purchase.

In 2024, The Hy-line ferry ran a special one-day service on the Saturday for anyone who wanted to take a day trip for Christmas in Edgartown. The 1-hr ferry traveled from Hyannis directly to Edgartown. This service has not yet been announced for 2025 but here’s hoping they will repeat it this year!

Flying to Martha’s Vineyard in December

Cape Air offers year-round flights to Martha’s Vineyard from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and New York JFK Airport (JFK), though keep in mind these are small, 9-passenger planes. In my winter travel experience, the ferry is usually a more reliable option when bad weather hits.

Private air charters can also use the airport which is open year-round. Check with Tradewind aviation. They fly from various airports in the Northeast like Teterboro, Farmingdale and Westchester

Where to Stay on Martha’s Vineyard in December

December offers reasonable accommodation rates, however, rooms fill quickly for Christmas in Edgartown weekend so early booking is essential. You will also find it easier to get a room in the early part of the month as some hotels close after the 15th.

Edgartown Hotels

If you are coming for Christmas in Edgartown, it makes sense to stay right in town so you can walk to everything. It’s hard to beat the Harbor View in the winter to be honest. I have stayed there in cold, snowy weather and it was so comfortable and welcoming to come back to that fire in the lobby!

These hotels are still open for some or all of the month:

• Edgar Hotel
• Harbor View Hotel (prime spot for holiday events and just announced they’ll be open 7 days a week through the winter)
• Franklin Hotel
• Vineyard Square Hotel
• Faraway (note: closes after December 15)
• Ashley Inn
• Charlotte Inn

Beyond Edgartown

• The Island Inn
• The Morgan Hotel
• The Mansion House
• Vineyard Harbor Motel

This is a great time to try out cozy, cottage-living on the Vineyard. Vacation rentals can be expensive and hard to find in July and August but there’s a lot more availability around the island in the winter months.

Check VRBO for listings. I’d recommend a vacation rental for families wanting more space or if you’re traveling in a group and want to share costs

🤩 Search for Martha’s Vineyard Rentals in December

Restaurants Open on Martha’s Vineyard in December

Although many restaurants have closed for the season, here are some that are still open when you need a break from the fun winter activities.

However, schedules can change at the last-minute. Some venues open for just one meal (like dinner), some only open on weekends and others close part way through the month. I always recommend calling before you visit any of these in December.

Edgartown

• Dock Street Coffee Shop (delicious breakfast!)
• The Wharf (a local favorite with great chowder)
• Town MV
• Bad Martha’s Brewery
• Espresso Love
• Alchemy
• Bettini Restaurant at Harbor View
• Rockfish
• Rosewater Market & Takeaway
• Square Rigger

Oak Bluffs

• Barn Bowl and Bistro
• The Lookout Tavern
• Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Company
• Offshore Ale Co.
• Sharky’s Cantina
• Mo’s Lunch
• Tigerhawk Sandwich Co.

Vineyard Haven

• S& S Kitchenette
• Black Dog Tavern
• Black Dog Bakery Cafe
• Waterside Market
• Bobby B’s
• Net Result

Martha’s Vineyard Weather in December

Average temperatures range from highs of 45°F to lows of 32°F. Expect a mix of cold, crisp, sunny days perfect for winter walks and occasional wet or stormy weather. You should have a few indoor activities in-mind, just in case.

Snow is unlikely, but the rain average for December is about 3.7 inches for the month.

One thing I have learned from winter visits is not to take the temperature on your weather app at face value. It might sound warm but the wind chill factor from being on an island can really make you cold if you’re not dressed appropriately.

What to Pack for Martha’s Vineyard in December

Trust me on this one – December weather on Martha’s Vineyard requires strategic packing. My best tip is to prepare for the wind! People often overlook this part of the weather forecast when choosing what to bring.

Start with a warm, windproof coat. Layer underneath with sweaters or cardigans that you can add or remove as needed.

Pack waterproof footwear for beach walks and rainy days, plus comfortable walking shoes. You’ll cover more ground than you expect and you might be standing for long periods if you go to the parade or lighthouse lighting.

Don’t forget your winter accessories for outdoor events. You can always stop in to the Island Alpaca gift shop and pick up some incredibly warm alpaca wool hats, scarfs, and gloves if it gets really chilly.

While Martha’s Vineyard maintains its “relaxed elegance” vibe even in winter, you’ll want to pack at least one dressy outfit if you’re planning to attend events like the Holly & Ivy Ball or Holiday Cocktail Party at the Carnegie.

Think cozy but put-together rather than overly formal – that’s the island way, even in December.

Wrap Up: Your December Martha’s Vineyard Getaway

Whether you’re seeking a festive holiday weekend at Christmas in Edgartown or a quiet winter escape, December delivers on Martha’s Vineyard. 

Just remember to pack those warm layers, book ahead for popular events, and embrace both the indoor coziness and outdoor beauty that make Martha’s Vineyard in the off-season so unique.

Want more help planning your trip? Join our private Martha’s Vineyard Travel Tips Facebook group for insider advice and updates. I hope you enjoy your time on the island!

Frequently Asked Questions about Martha’s Vineyard in December

Is December a good time to visit Martha’s Vineyard?

Yes, December is a good time to visit Martha’s Vineyard. December offers two distinct experiences: the festive buzz of Christmas in Edgartown weekend and the peaceful charm of quieter winter days. Plus, you’ll find lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds than peak season.

What is Christmas in Edgartown like?

It’s four days of pure holiday magic! Think decorated historic streets, a festive parade, holiday markets, carriage rides, and special events throughout town. Edgartown transforms into a winter wonderland that draws visitors from across New England. The colors of fall may be gone but they’ve been replaced by twinkling lights and joyful holiday decorations. 

Is everything closed in December?

Not at all. While some businesses operate on reduced winter hours, plenty of restaurants, shops, and hotels remain open. The island is especially lively during Christmas in Edgartown weekend. Just remember to check specific business hours and make reservations where needed.

How cold is Martha’s Vineyard in December?

Average temperatures range from 32°F to 45°F, but the island wind chill can make it feel colder. Don’t let this deter you though – with proper clothing (especially windproof layers), you can comfortably enjoy both outdoor and indoor activities.

What’s the best way to get to Martha’s Vineyard in December?

The best way to get to Martha’s Vineyard in December is via the Steamship Authority ferry from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven. While Cape Air offers flights from Boston and New York, winter weather can affect air travel more than ferry service. I recommend taking the ferry and either bringing your car or arranging an on-island rental.

Do I need a car in December?

No, you do not need a car. However, having one makes December exploring much more enjoyable, especially for staying warm between activities. If you can’t get a car ferry reservation for Christmas in Edgartown weekend, consider renting on-island instead.