VPT Events

Explore the treasures of the Carnegie Heritage Center during our annual summer open house. Discover two new exhibitions: The Flying Horses Carousel: An American Treasure, celebrating the carousel’s 150th anniversary, and Nantucket Lightship Baskets on Martha’s Vineyard, showcasing the artistry of this iconic New England craft.

Beginning at noon, contemporary lightship basket artisan Sarah Knight will demonstrate the timeless craft of lightship basket weaving. Then join us from 3:00–6:00 PM to explore the exhibitions, enjoy refreshments, and gather in community around Martha’s Vineyard history, art, and culture.

We look forward to an evening with acclaimed author Nathaniel Philbrick, presented in partnership by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum and the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust at the Old Whaling Church—a rare opportunity to hear one of America’s most celebrated historians share his insights in person.

This event is SOLD OUT. Please email info@mvmuseum.org to be added to the waitlist.

From Revolutionary-era liberty caps to modern protest fashion, this illustrated talk with live models explores how clothing and etiquette have expressed cultural change across 250 years of American history. Presented by protocol expert Sharon-Frances “Shances” Moore, the program reveals how what we wear reflects evolving social values. Learn more about Sharon here: https://www.shances.com/.

You are invited to the Flying Horses Carousel 150th Birthday Party! Round and round we go—150 years of magic in motion. Celebrate America’s oldest carousel with a joyful birthday adventure that begins at the Flying Horses and winds through Oak Bluffs with activities for the whole family!

From handbags to tabletop treasures, this special collection of Nantucket Lightship Baskets tells stories that go far beyond craftsmanship. Featuring private collections ranging from Nantucket masters like José Formoso Reyes to Martha’s Vineyard artisan Tom DeMont, the exhibition explores the artistry, history, and enduring legacy of this iconic American tradition — and how it continues to inspire the Vineyard’s own contemporary makers today.

Presented by the Martha’s Vineyard Garden Club, join us for a special morning with Christin Geall, celebrated for her work exploring the connections between nature, culture, and horticulture. Drawing from her books Cultivated: The Elements of Floral Style and Flora Culture: How Flowers Shape Our World, Christin will share inspiring stories, ideas, and images for gardeners, flower lovers, and anyone curious about the natural world.

The Edgartown Village Market features Island makers, artists, and fresh provisions. Presented by the Edgartown Board of Trade and Vineyard Preservation Trust, this open-air gathering captures the energy of summer on Martha’s Vineyard, local shopping, community connection, and sun-filled days in the heart of Edgartown.

Location: 99 Main Street, Edgartown, behind the Daniel Fisher House

Independence on Martha’s Vineyard: Then, Now & Forever is an immersive exhibition that explores how independence has shaped the Island over 250 years. Through historic objects and storytelling, this exhibit reveals the distinct culture of self-determination and the lasting influence of Revolutionary ideals on Vineyard life.

The Vincent House, the Vineyard’s oldest home, is the stage for this exhibit, which is presented as part of the Commonwealth’s MA250 commemorations, made possible by the Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council.

*Edgartown Village Market Day

Led by historian Norah Van Riper, Independence on Foot is a spirited walking tour exploring Martha’s Vineyard’s revolutionary past. Beginning at the Vincent House Museum, this 90-minute walking tour connects Edgartown sites, stories, and civic ideals – bringing the Island’s role in the American Revolution and its independent spirit to life. Participating families receive a President’s for Kids activity book.