Next week on television Neil Patrick Harris hosts a new series called Best Time Ever, where he will supposedly show the best there is in the world and on stage. Well, here on the Vineyard we say sorry Neil, the best time ever is to be had on Saturday, Sept. 12 in Oak Bluffs. That’s when the sixth annual Best Fest extravaganza touches down once again from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

So what makes it so special that the organizers get to call this festival The Best? Well, it’s early September for one thing. That makes just about anything extra special. Weather and water still warm, streets manageably calm and time for hanging out increased exponentially.

Then there is the music.

The Extraordinary Rendition Band (aka ERB) from Providence, R.I. is coming to town again to lead a parade of horns down Circuit avenue from 8 to 9 p.m. This must be seen and heard to be believed. A bit of the Big Easy up north here.

Out in Ocean Park from 5 to 8 p.m. there will be a rotating crew including Kahoots, The Pickpocket Bluegrass Band and The Maniacs of the Heart. And then, after the parade, the music moves to Strand Theatre from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. featuring The Space Invaders, The Hammerheads and Electric Pie. That’s right, it’s not your grandma’s movie theatre anymore. Today, the Strand rocks.

It’s fall, it’s Oak Bluffs, it’s a musical merry-go-round. Have the best time.

Donations are accepted in the park. Performances at the Strand are $11. Call 508-304-2285 for more information.