A little bit of extra light — just a peek of the sunset at the end of a workday, or a few more minutes fiddling around outside — can make all the difference. As the days get longer, suddenly you feel more hopeful, a little lighter...definitely more energized. And if you're a Vineyarder, living at the edge of this Eastern timezone, those 4:15 p.m. sunsets get to be a real drag. Good news, folks. This weekend we'll have civil twilight (defined by the time before the sun dips 6 degrees below the horizon) until 5:15 p.m., and by the last day of this month, we'll officially have 10 hours of daylight (Sunrise: 6:55 a.m.; Sunset 4:56 p.m.). Those 10 hours are magical — that's the minimum amount of sunlight needed to get plants growing again (and maybe people happy again, too).

With that extra sunlight, you'll have plenty of time for outdoor activities (a Brickyard walk or a brick oven pizza party? Beach safari or birding excursion?). And you'll still have time left over to settle back in your chairs and enjoy some really wonderful indoor events. This weekend's highlights include the Bolshoi Ballet Live in Cinema at the film center and a combined book talk, signing and movie screening at Pathways.

But the most charming performance of the week is happening tonight at 6:00 p.m. Described as a "guaranteed heart-warmer" by folks who have witnessed this "particular miracle," the All-Island Strings Concert, featuring more than 200 elementary school kids, is the best cure for the winter blues we can think of (at least until January 31 and 10 hours of sunlight!).

Friday, January 19 | Street Scene

If you spent any time in New York in the '70s and '80s (or even if you didn't), you'll definitely want to catch tonight's book talk and movie screening at Pathways Arts at 7:00 p.m. Photographer Ed Grazda's powerful new collection of black and white photos, Mean Streets, is a first-hand observer's look at an era when corruption and crime created an atmosphere of "anything goes" on the streets of the city.

After Grazda (who is a Vineyard resident now) talks and signs the book, you'll want to stay on for the premier of The Ravenite. The documentary is based on a true account by writer Alec Wilkinson of living across the street from the Gambino family in the 1980s.

Today you can also cheer on the girls varsity basketball team (against Bishop Feehan High School at 4:30 p.m.) and the high school swim team (against Barnstable High School at the YMCA at 6:30 p.m.). Tonight, the new film starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Phantom Thread, plays at the MV Film Center at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, January 20 | Vineyard Spirit

We're thinking of going on the Cape Pogue Winter Beach Safari today at 9:00 a.m. (reservations required). After we warm up with a cup of chowder at the Newes, we're going to check out the mini-book sale at the Vineyard Haven library (11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.).

At 1:00 p.m., anyone interested can gather at Five Corners in Vineyard Haven for the Women's March 2018, an event of solidarity with similar gatherings happening all over the country today. Also at 1:00 p.m. at the Oak Bluffs Library, Dr. Walter Collier will lead a lively discussion relating to his new book, Why Racism Persists: An Uncomfortable Truth. And Oyster MV, a community network for young adults 18+, is sponsoring a hike through Menemsha Hills today at 1:00 p.m., with hot drinks provided for a post-hike parking lot hang.

The Martha's Vineyard Ice Arena is having a special party to celebrate its grand re-opening (which happened last fall) at 3:00 p.m today. The Boys Varsity Hockey Team will play Cardinal Spellman high school at 5:00 p.m. There's live music at both the Ritz and Pathways tonight, and the new film, Call Me By Your Name, plays at the Film Center at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 21 | Dance or Walk

Depending on the weather, you have two great choices today: Head to the MV Film Center for the Bolshoi Ballet Live in Cinema: Romeo and Juliet (12:55 p.m.) or join The Trustees on a perennially favorite walk through the old Brickyard in Chilmark (1:00 p.m.). Pre-registration is required for this once-a-year event, which is a great opportunity to explore the ruins of a once thriving Vineyard industry and hear stories of how the business once prospered.

Tonight at 5:00 p.m., the Vineyard Haven library hosts a free reading of a one-act play, Face to Face. The play, performed by the Peter H. Luce Play Readers and presented by special arrangement with Cameron Management, Sydney, is a moving and powerful story about power and betrayal.

Special Event: Tuesday, January 23

The Vineyard Gazette will host Dr. Mark Baumgartner, a marine ecologist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the current chair of the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium, for a talk on The Plight of the Right Whale, Tuesday evening at 5:15 p.m. (doors open at 5 p.m. for a brief reception). Dr. Baumgartner, who has studied the ecology, foraging behavior and acoustics of marine mammals for more than 25 years, will discuss and answer questions about the right whale, the causes of its critical decline and what is being done to address it. The talk is part of the Gazette's ongoing Tuesdays in the Newsroom series, and is free to subscribers, $10 for non-subscribers.

Punxsutawney Phil has it a lot easier than Tom Brady this weekend. All Phil has to do is poke his head out of a hole on Friday morning, look around, and check for his shadow. (It isn’t easy being a celebrity like Phil, though. He has his own Instagram account, @punxsyphil, to keep up, and his image after all. Plus, he must be getting tired, having poked his head out of that hole for 130 years straight.) Tom Brady (@TomBrady), on the other hand, will have to do a whole lot more than poke his head out of a hole on Sunday night, though compared to Phil, he’s a relative newtimer; this is only his eighth Super Bowl.

Here on the Vineyard, we will try to keep ourselves occupied between these two exciting bookends to the weekend. (You can keep up with us on Instagram at @vineyardgazette.) With the Oscars a month away, we’re psyched that the MV Film Center has six of the Best Picture nominations playing this weekend. On second thought, you might not catch us on Instagram; we’ll be in a dark theater.

Friday, February 2 | Groundhog Day, Again

After you pick up the news from Pennsylvania on Phil’s status, you can head over to the West Tisbury Library to listen in on the open chamber music rehearsal (10:30 a.m.). This afternoon, the boy’s varsity basketball team takes on Bishop Stang High School at 4:30 p.m.

We’re looking forward to a great art opening tonight. Photographer Albert O. Fischer, whose iconic up-Island photographs often illuminate the pages of the Vineyard Gazette, will have a showing of his photos at The Martha’s Vineyard Savings Bank in Chilmark during the month of February. Tonight is the opening party, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. We might pop right over to Pathways Arts after that to watch the documentary Have You Heard From Johannesburg. Or we may head into Vineyard haven to see The Shape of Water at the Film Center at 7:30 p.m. The Mike Benjamin Band plays at the Ritz at 10 p.m.

Saturday, February 3 | Art Smart

If you’re itching to get outside today, consider a Winter Beach Safari on Cape Pogue, a prayer hike at Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary, or ice skating at the MV rink. The MV Collaborative Black History Education Program begins with a program at Oak Bluffs Library this morning at 10:30 a.m. Looking for a matinee? Phantom Thread plays at the MV Film Center at 1:00 p.m.

This afternoon there’s another great art reception—this one at the West Tisbury library. The artist is photographer Dylan Spencer Kenney; the show is titled “My Island Veterans.” The reception is from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; refreshments will be served and live music provided by Porchlight. The photos will be on display for the month of February.

The Ritz has Rosie’s Ritzy Revue on stage at 7:00 p.m.; Auntie Em & The Bedspins take over at 10:00 p.m. At the MV Film Center, The Post plays at 4:00 p.m. and The Shape of Water at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 4 | Super Martha

First things first. Do you know what you’re making for Super Bowl supper? Here’s a great idea: Make your own pizza. (Be sure to check out the list of Islanders’ favorite toppings.) With that settled, you’ve got time to go for a walk this afternoon. Join the Land Bank staff on a guided natural history walk of Trade Wind Fields Preserve in Oak Bluffs at 1:00 p.m. Or pick a destination you’ve never been to—the four-mile walk all the way around Felix Neck Sanctuary is beautiful this time of year, and we’ve noticed (on Instagram, of course) a lot of folks visiting Great Rock Bight Preserve and Lucy Vincent Beach in recent weeks. There's also a TailSkate party at the ice rink at 4:10 p.m.; bring an item for the Island Food Pantry and get a free skate rental.

After that you're free to do, you know, whatever comes to mind tonight.

This weekend starts out with a rumble, two star-crossed lovers, and a whole lot of great music and dancing—it’s West Side Story, performed by the talented students and staff of the MVRHS Performing Arts department. The show opens at 7:00 p.m. tonight with performances through Sunday.

After that, we’ll all be singing “Somewhere…there’s a place for us, somewhere a place for us. Peace and quiet and open air wait for us, somewhere….” Only we’re already on Martha’s Vineyard (in February), where we’ve got all the peace and quiet and open air we could wish for. It’s too bad Tony and Maria couldn’t escape to the Vineyard. But we have Shakespeare and Romeo and Juliet to blame for that. Honestly, somebody needs to rewrite that story.

So whether you’re looking for peace and quiet (a mindfulness and centering prayer workshop) or open air (a guided walk or a 20-miler) or something else entirely (Celtic music? ceramics?), somewhere on this Island there's a place for you. Go shake out those mid-winter cobwebs and rewrite your story.

Friday, February 16 | Olympics and Oscars

Come watch the Olympics today at the Chilmark Library, where they'll be live-streaming from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. You can have your Olympics and Oscars, too: Over at the MV Film Center, The 2018 Oscar-Nominated Short Films: Live Action will play at 4:00 p.m. and the Oscar Shorts: Documentaries will play at 7:30 p.m. And Black Panther has arrived on the Island, playing at the Edgartown Cinema tonight at 6:45 p.m.

The Diversity Speaker Series continues at the high school tonight with Gretchen Underwood presenting "Gangstas: How Harriet Tubman and other gangstas made ME possible" at 6:00 p.m. Over at the Portuguese-American Club, there's a fundraiser and auction for fisherman Tracy Sharples and his family at 7:00 p.m., followed by DeeJay Supa Ricky Prime at 8:30 p.m. Down at the Ritz, Phil DaRosa Project plays at 10 p.m.

Saturday, February 17 | On Your Mark, Get Set

And they're off: The annual Martha's Vineyard 20-miler and Amity Island Relay begins at the Steamship Authority this morning at 11 a.m. The course follows the water through Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs and turns inland at the triangle in Edgartown, so if you're in town (and not running), cheer the runners on. For those of you fascinated with winter wildlife, Polly Hill has an interesting event this morning. BiodiversityWorks biologists Luanne Johnson and Liz Baldwin will teach you some of the tricks to tracking wildlife in the winter landscape. The indoor/outdoor event, Winter Wildlife at the Arboretum, starts at 9 a.m.

For Black History Month, the Oak Bluffs library is offering a screening of Ida B. Wells—A Passion for Justice, a film that documents the dramatic life of the pioneering African-American journalist, activist, suffragist and anti-lynching crusader. The film shows at 1:30 p.m.

Tonight you can celebrate Mardi Gras (a few days late, yes, but for a good cause) at the Loft, with dancing, music, great food and all proceeds going to the Island Children's School. Or meet us at the MV Film Center, where we're looking forward to seeing best-picture nominated comedy/thriller, Get Out at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 18 |

Hikers, you'll want to sign up for this: a North Shore walk only open to the public once a year. Join the Trustees of Reservations at Cape Higgon Way to hike through this stunning property. Gather at 12:45 p.m. for a 1:00 p.m. start. If you'd prefer an indoor activity, you can head down to the MV Film Center for the opening party for a new black and white photography exhibit by Justen Ahren (2:30 p.m.) or you can head up to the West Tisbury library for a talk by Merissa Nathan Gerson on Judaism 101 (3:30 p.m.) Also, don't forget that the last performance of West Side Story is at 2:00 p.m. today.

Tuesday, February 20

We also wanted to remind you that the Vineyard Gazette's popular monthly series, Tuesdays in the Newsroom, continues with today's talk, "How We Got Here: What Drew African-American Families to the Vineyard." The program will begin with the screening of a new short film shot last summer on the Vineyard by a French production company. Then a panel of three year-round Islanders—Olive Tomlinson, Gretchen Tucker Underwood, and Skip Finley—will talk about their childhood summers in Oak Bluffs and about what attracted their families to the Island.

Click your heels together, close your eyes, and repeat, “There’s no place like summer on the Vineyard.” If you keep your eyes shut (don’t peek) and repeat that three times, we promise you, visions of sunflowers and ripe tomatoes and sandy beaches will pop into your head.

Granted, it will still be March when you open your eyes, but at least it isn’t February any more. And March does have some cool distractions to offer, including the Oscars, the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival, St. Patrick’s Day, and more.

But in case you’re not fooled by our attempts at distraction, we will fess up: Facts are, this weekend we’re one quiet Island. With school vacation week coming to a close, special events are scarce. But if you’re hanging here with the rest of us, there are still some fun things to do with the kids (here's a complete list), plus music, movies and talks for the rest of us. Here are some highlights.

Thursday, March 1

Poetry Café at the Playhouse. Arnie Reisman hosts poets Ellie Bates, Maureen Hall, Lee McCormack, Donald Nitchie, and Rose Styron tonight at 7:00 p.m. Admission includes a beverage and a slice of Pie Chicks pie.

Black Panther in Disney Digital 3D. The box-office-record-breaking film will be shown in 3D tonight at Edgartown Cinema, 6:45 p.m.

Friday, March 2

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. The MV Film Center and the West Tisbury Free Library are joining forces to offer this free youth screening with goodie bags, an interactive script, and a Sorting Hat to help young witches and wizards decide their Hogwarts House. The film shows at the Film Center at 1:00 p.m.; doors open at 12:30 p.m. Reserve free tickets online.

Saturday, March 3

Winter Tree ID: No Leaves, No Problem. Join Polly Hill’s Ian Jochems at 9:00 a.m. for an indoor/outdoor class on winter tree identification.

Dancing at the P.A. Club. Gordon Healy’s band will rock the P.A. club from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. as part of the “Gig for the Gigs” fundraiser. Funds will help the MV Rowing Club of Sail MV maintain its two Cornish Pilot Gig rowing boats.

Sunday, March 4

Book Talk: Jewish American Women Writers. Join Myra Stark in a discussion of writer Cynthia Ozick’s fiction at the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center at 10:00 a.m.

2018 Oscars Viewing Party. Join the MV Film Society and fellow film lovers for a festive evening of watching the 90^th Academy Awards. The event begins at the Film Center at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, March 6

Cult Classic Movie Tuesdays with Oyster MV: Oyster MV, a community-based organization for young adults (18-30), is joining with MV Film Center to offer cult classic movies every month. Tonight's movie is Ferris Bueller's Day Off (7:00 p.m.).

COMING UP:

Tuesday, March 13

Join us for "Tuesdays in the Newsroom Presents: Oyster Farming, the New Family Fishing Business." Rick Karney, director emeritus of the Martha's Vineyard Shellfish Group, along with oyster farmers Ryan Smith and Greg and Dan Martino, will talk about the burgeoning oyster farming business on Martha's Vineyard. Come prepared to taste a few briny bivalves, too. Doors open at 5:15 p.m.

We are hungry. For popcorn, for the truth, for winter to end. The Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival arrives today, just in time to feed our cravings. We’re ready to settle into a comfy couch at the Chilmark Community Center, meet our friends at the Hay Café, and forget altogether about bombogenesis. (We’d be happy to strip "nor’easter" from the Vineyard lexicon, too.)

Tonight the Film Festival begins with not one, but two locally inspired films. The main event is the national premiere of Chappaquiddick, starring Jason Clarke and an all-star cast including Kate Mara, Ed Helms, Jim Gaffigan and Bruce Dern. Clarke and director John Curran, as well as screenwriters Andrew Logan and Taylor Allen, will be on hand for a discussion after both screenings tonight at the Edgartown Cinema. (Tickets are sold out but a waitlist is available for the Saturday afternoon screening.)

Starting out the evening is a film about West Tisbury’s Allen Whiting—A Painter Who Farms. The 12^th generation Islander is well-known for his plein-air paintings of Island landscapes, but his life as a farmer is less well-documented. A screening on Sunday filled up so quickly that this additional event (5:30 p.m. at the Edgartown Cinema) was added to kick off the festival. Whiting and directors Barbarella and David Fokos will be on hand for discussion after the film.

The festival continues through Sunday, with a schedule of great films filling the weekend—come hell or high water, as they say. (That should pretty much cover downed trees, melting snow banks, flooded harbors and the like). Put on your boots and head to the movies. We’ll meet you at the Hay Café.

Friday, March 16 | For a Good Cause

We think we'll begin the day with daffodils. (Who can argue with cheery yellow flowers against this stark March landscape?) The Martha's Vineyard Cancer Support Group is selling daffodils at the hospital today from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and tomorrow at Cronig's from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The annual fundraiser, Daffodil Time, helps Island cancer patients and their families with medical expenses and other treatment related expenses.

Tonight you can stay in the spirit and dine out at Lucky Hank's in Edgartown where 10 percent of sales will go to the Friends of Edgartown Library. After that, if you're not heading up to Chilmark for a festival film, you can take in A Fantastic Woman, the 2018 Oscar Winner for Best Foreign Language film at the MV Film Center at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 17 | Game On

Keeping it all about Chappaquiddick this weekend, we're joining a guided walk of the beautiful Cove Meadow lands at 10 a.m. We might get back to Edgartown in time to catch the end of the St. Patrick's Day parade, which leaves Dock Street at 11:30 a.m. While this certainly isn't a parade with the scope of say, the Fourth of July one, it does have the promise of libations and music at the end. The Newes Pub will be the live-music hub, with traditional Irish music from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and more music throughout the day, including the band Pick Pocket at 9 p.m. Offshore Ale will also host a trio of Irish musicians to celebrate St. Paddy's night, starting at 6:30 p.m.

At 5:30 p.m. we're all heading to the MV Ice Arena for the second annual Police v. Fire Hockey Fundraiser, a benefit for Vineyard House, which provides safe and sober housing for Islanders in recovery. We may arrive early, because the fun event includes a public skate from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and a chance for kids to skate right up and touch a fire truck or a police cruiser. Or they (and their grown-up friends) can check out emergency vehicles in the parking lot. There will be food and raffles, too.

Sunday, March 18 | Walk This Way

We're crossing our fingers that we can get outside for a nice walk today. At 1:00 p.m., the Trustees are leading a Winter Walk through beautiful Squibnocket, which includes an area in conservation restriction that is normally not open to the public. Remember to register ahead.

This afternoon you can catch the RISE Dance Company at the Martha's Vineyard Performing Arts Center at 3:00 p.m. in a lively performance that's entertaining for all ages. The dance group earned awards of excellence in the Elite Dance Challenge for this program, which includes a variety of choreographic styles from jazz to contemporary, ballet to tap. The Charter School play, Never-Ending Story, is on stage at the Katharine Cornell Theater at 2 p.m.

You could also stop by the Vineyard Haven library at 2 p.m. to hear local photographer and engaging speaker Paul Doherty discuss his "Reflective Abstract" photos taken in Vineyard Harbor and on display at the library this month. Or hear poet Jill Jupen read from her new chapbook, The Space Between, over at Utopia Vintage Clothes at 1 p.m.

And don't forget the art show going on over at Featherstone. Check out Backwards and in High Heels from noon to 4 p.m. today.

We are hopelessly in love with the whole idea of spring this year. The baby lambs seem cuter than they’ve ever been (if that’s possible). White snowdrops and purple crocuses blooming just in time for Easter and Passover seem nothing less than miraculous. The cacophony of carpenters’ hammers and landscapers’ buzzsaws doesn’t bother us. We are just so happy to have chives in the garden, (almost) no snow on the ground, and an incredible blue swath of day-lit sky on our drive home.

In fact, the stark beauty of the Vineyard struggling to come to life again inspires so much gratitude that we think we’ll just stop in our busy tracks and enjoy our families and friends this weekend, whether we’re planning a holiday celebration or not. That is— if they can get here to join us. The great 2018 ferry fiasco could prove to be a big stumbling block for family reunions or quick holiday jaunts to the Island. (Check the Vineyard Gazette for frequent updates.) We're going to cross our fingers that the ferry fairies sprinkle full-speed-ahead stardust on the boats Woods Hole and Martha's Vineyard so that everyone who wants to get to the Island this weekend (or get off to visit family) can do so.

If you need (gentle) suggestions for activities to do together, read on. If you'd like a list of Easter and Passover services and activities, click here. If the worst case scenario occurs and you have to postpone your Island visit, rest assured you won't miss spring—we're still patiently waiting for daffodils, 50+ degree days, and well, actual leaves on the trees.

Friday, March 30 | Good, Good Friday

The arrival of spring is nothing to laugh about—unless you happen to be at the Harbor View tonight for An Evening of Comedy, with comedians Carolyn Plummer, John David and Paul Nardizzi. The show (for those 18 and older) starts at 8:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for anyone wishing to order from the Henry’s menu. Down at the Ritz, the Chandler Blues Band is playing its final gig as a group (10:00 p.m.). But if you’d like something more kid-friendly and a little earlier in the evening, check out the Rose Hips & Ships concert at the Oak Bluffs Library from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The five-piece band with roots in DownEast Maine and Brooklyn, N.Y. plays music that is "kind on the ears and heart" and appealing to all ages.

Saturday, March 31 | Eggciting

First, the important stuff: There are egg hunts today at Martha's Vineyard Community Services, at the FARM Institute, at the West Tisbury Public Library, at the Martha's Vineyard Community Horse Center (an egg hunt on horseback, no less!), at the St. Andrews Rectory, at the Aquinnah Library, in Edgartown, and at the Tisbury Fire/EMS Building. Better get a bigger basket.

Even more important: Today the Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs opens for its 134th season. Free lollipops for kids.

After a ride on the carousel, you can take the kids to the Black Dog General Store in Edgartown to meet pets that are up for adoption (12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.).

And tonight you can hear Island singer/songwriters Siren Mayhew and Sean McMahon sing at the West Tisbury Library at 6:00 p.m. Or you can celebrate Jimmy Cliff's birthday with a special screening of The Mighty Quinn, starring Denzel Washington, at the MV Film Center at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 1 | Ham or Lamb?

After sunrise services and more egg hunts, don't forget to eat this Easter morning. Chilmark Community Church will serve breakfast at 7:15 a.m. The Harbor View will serve Easter brunch from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Grill on Main will serve its Grand Easter Buffet—including Sweetneck Farm oysters and shrimp cocktail, roast leg of lamb, Virginia ham, carving station, baked codfish, cream of asparagus soup, house-made salads and endless homemade desserts—at three seatings: 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.

After all that eating, if you'd like to get back to the ideas of renewal and mindfulness, sign up for the four-week meditation series from Yoga on the Vine that starts tonight at 6:00 p.m.

Lately we’ve been impressed by a group of young people—20 and 30-somethings—who refuse to let the long off-season on the Vineyard get to them. They call themselves Oyster MV and to them, the Vineyard is their oyster: Trail hikes, film nights, workshops, and all kinds of social networking are pearls on the survival schedule. You can follow these upstarts on Instagram @oysterMV or you can find them this Sunday at The Ritz for Game Day (cards, giant Jenga, and more at 12:30 p.m.).

But they’re not the only ones making the most of this 43^rd day of March, as some are now referring to April 12; currently, it is 38 degrees and the sky is the very fine color of a woolly white sheep who needs a bath. While it’s not likely any Island sheep will be getting the spa treatment this weekend, they will be getting sheared at the FARM Institute’s Sheepapalooza on Saturday. (And we hear the thermometer will top 50 degrees as well.)

Sheepapalooza? Now you’re thinking we Islanders have really lost our marbles over the winter. But honestly, sheep shearing is very cool to watch, plus, if you go to Sheepapalooza, you’ll be privy to the whole transformation of sheep to sweater, as the wool gets carded, cleaned (there’s that bath!), and spun. Wagon rides, baby lambs, sheep dog demos, and food from the ArtCliff Diner truck. Now that sounds like an event even 20-somethings would like.

If you’re not convinced, rest assured there are plenty of other events planned to draw you out and about this weekend, from art openings and cooking classes to film screenings and live music.

Friday, April 13 | It's Your Lucky Day

Tonight the Martha's Vineyard Film Center is the place to be. Drop by between 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. for the opening reception for photographer Alison L Mead's new show, which will feature some of her favorite Vineyard subjects, including farm animals, Menemsha, fishing boats (right), and harbors. Then stay to watch the endearing new stop-motion animated film from Wes Anderson called Isle of Dogs at 7:30 p.m.

If you can't make it down to the Film Center, head up to Pathways for an evening of strings music with some of the Island's best musicians, including Nancy Jephcote, Paul Thurlow, David Stanwood and Bruce MacNelly. Alternative String Night starts at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 14 | Treasure Hunt

On your way out to Sheepapalooza, pop into Katama General Store, which is hosting a yard sale from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (No early birds, please). If your secret yearnings to be a farmer lean more towards growing plants and less towards tending livestock, skip the sheep and join a mushroom growing workshop with Matthew Dix at IGI's Thimble Farm. Or take the kids for a nature scavenger hunt with the folks at Oak Bluffs library.

This afternoon, you can make your soup, and eat it, too. Enter the Kale Soup Contest (which benefits the Islanders Talk Benevolent Fund) at the P.A. Club (1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m.) or take a cooking class with Catherine Walthers at the West Tisbury Kitchen Lab and learn to perfect your roast chicken, plus chicken stock and more.

Still hungry? Come to a potluck tonight at the Martha's Vineyard Agricultural Society from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Bring a dish, BYOB, and listen to live music.

Sunday, April 15 | Rain or Shine

Learn more about the Island's Meals on Wheels program this morning at Federated Church where Michele Dupon will be the featured speaker at 11:30 a.m. At 2:30 p.m. the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School boy's varsity baseball team takes on Nantucket High School at home.

Rain is in the forecast, so a film may be in order to finish the day: At the Film Center, Isle of Dogs plays at 4:00 p.m. and the new satire, The Death of Stalin, plays at 7:30 p.m. The movie Chappaquiddick is now officially in theaters on the Island and it shows tonight at 7:00 p.m. at the Edgartown Cinemas.

While some of us are still sleeping and others are having their first sips of morning coffee, peripatetic photographer Liz Dolan Durkee is on the move. Since 2014, she’s risen every day before the sun to go for a meditative walk around her home town of Oak Bluffs.

As the sun rises over Nantucket Sound and morning light drifts inland, Liz is there with her iphone to capture the kind of beauty that only this time of day can convey.

It’s her ritual, but those who follow her on Instagram and Facebook greedily drink in the daily dose of serenity and beauty that Liz’s photos provide when they appear at the top of their morning feeds. No two mornings are ever the same. (The two shots here were taken this week.)

Tomorrow, why not get up early and see the Vineyard from a different perspective, in a different light? If every day the same town — and the same piece of sky lit by the same sun — can look completely different in one photographer’s eye, imagine how many ways there are to experience the entire Island from different points of view.

This weekend we’re welcoming fresh perspectives, honoring diversity, and celebrating a spirit of inclusiveness with the Martha’s Vineyard Film Society’s Spectrum Film Festival, a series devoted to LGBT stories, people, and issues. The four-day festival features a variety of films, guest speakers and discussions.

Since there's no shortage of outdoor events this weekend, too, it might be best to get up early (did we already mention that?) to fit in both films and other activities this weekend. Don’t forget to take pictures.

Friday, April 27 | Relics and Romance

Celebrate Arbor Day with the staff of Polly Hill Arboretum today at 2:00 p.m. Learn about the history of Arbor Day, about how to plant your own trees, and especially about the members of the genus Cercis—the beautiful redbud trees. Leave with an Eastern redbud seedling. At 4:00 p.m., there's a pop up show (Relics & Rarities) at Featherstone. Shop for antiques, furniture, jewelry, art, estate items, and more from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The show continues through the weekend.

The Spectrum Film Festival will offer a special film event this afternoon (also at 4:00 p.m.). The film Love, Simon—a heartfelt coming of age story—will be shown, with a pre-screening discussion about political engagement with State Senator Julian Cyr, and a pre-recorded personalized video message from U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren.

And for serious laughs, head over to the Harbor View tonight for an evening of comedy (8:00 p.m to 10:30 p.m.) with comedians Sean Sullivan, Scott Higgins, and Joe Larson.

Saturday, April 28 | Transitions

A crowd of 50 alpacas (that might constitute a herd) will be gathered today for the 11th Annual Alpaca Shearing Day Open House at Island Alpaca, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If alpacas aren't your thing, bring the kids to feed the goats or collect eggs at today's Barnyard Buddies at the FARM Institute (9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.). Little League opens today, and the Boy Scouts are holding a car wash.

Grown-ups will want to know about Furniture Painting 102 at Refabulous Decor (9:00 a.m. to noon) as well as IGI's class on transitioning your plants from cold frames to the outdoors (10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the FARM Institute).

This afternoon the festival film Transmilitary shows at 4:30 p.m. at the Film Center. There will be a post-show Skype Q&A with co-director Fiona Dawson. Tonight the film Disobedience with Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams screens at 7:30 p.m., with a discussion afterwards with Rabbi Caryn Broitman.

If you missed the February performances, you can catch The Vagina Monologues both tonight and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. at the Old Whaling Church.

Sunday, April 29 | In Rare Form

Winding up the weekend is the last day of the Martha's Vineyard Dart Tournament, the last day of Relics & Rarities at Featherstone, music at the West Tisbury Library and at the Edgartown Library, and an opportunity to plant beach grass on Lobsterville Beach.

For those of you with staying power, an epic film (or two films, totaling seven hours) closes the Spectrum Film Festival. Angels in America, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, was captured on the London Stage last summer. Starring Nathan Lane and Andrew Garfield, the film looks at the complexities of homosexual life and AIDS in America during the 1980s. The two films will be split by a dinner break from 4:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. and there will be breaks during the films as well.

Recently we were away. Off-Island. Off the rock. In America. In other words, homesick, if we are to be completely honest. It’s no accident that Islanders have a unique (and extensive) lexicon of phrases for being separated from the Island. Because for all our bluster about needing to get off the rock from time to time, once we ride the boat over to America, all we’re pretty much thinking about is coming back to the Island.

While we were away this time, we checked in with the Vineyard Gazette—first, we admit, to keep up with the ongoing ferry saga, but secondly to spy on the unfolding beauty and frenzy of activity that marks May on the Vineyard. We did this by scrolling through Tim Johnson’s Island Light photos. (Like those shown here).

While looking longingly at Tim’s photos, it occurred to us that if we had to live off-Island, the best gift anyone could ever give us would be a trip to the Vineyard. So we were thinking, what with Mother’s Day this (Pink and Green) weekend, that if you’re able to grab Mom and join us here now, great. Otherwise, we think you should give Mom the next best thing: a trip to the Island this summer.

After all, we’re busy getting ready for you, the fog will have lifted (probability: 90 percent), and the ferries may be running on a regular schedule (probability: 50 percent).

But even if it takes a little extra time to get here, it’s worth it. We’ll have warm Back Door donuts waiting for you.

And by the way, speaking of ferries, if you'd like to contribute your opinion about the Steamship Authority, please take this quick community survey from the Vineyard Gazette.

Friday, May 11 | Mom and Me

Start the Mother's Day weekend with a Mom and Me Spa Day special at Sea Spa Salon (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). It's just one of dozens of events and activities (many with discounts) happening all over Edgartown as part of Pink and Green Weekend. Post-spa, head to Donaroma's from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m for "Fairyville" at the garden store and refreshments and fun surprises for the whole family. Or head for Chesca's to sip Pink Ladies on the porch.

Tonight hop over to Vineyard Haven and catch Melinda Buckley's heartwarming performance in "Mother and Me" at the Martha's Vineyard Playhouse at 7:30 p.m. The film Final Portrait plays at the M.V. Film Center at 7:30 p.m. and the box-office-breaking Avengers: Infinity War plays at 7:00 p.m at Edgartown Cinemas.

Saturday, May 12 | Grow Your Own

Gardeners, start your engines (or your rototillers....or just pick up a spade), because this morning you can take a fruit-growing workshop at Thimble Farm (10:00 a.m.) or a small-fruit workshop at Vineyard Gardens (11:00 a..m.), or you can take a horticulture for the home gardener class at Polly Hill (10:00 a.m.). There's also a Mother's Day plant sale at the Community Solar Greenhouse from 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. Non gardeners, head to the MV Mini Maker Faire at the Ag Hall, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Catch the sixth annual Pink and Green Dog Show on the village green in Edgartown at 1:00 p.m. And don't miss the opportunity to view a lovely Edgartown property during a Pink and Green weekend Open House from Wallace & Co. Plan to wind up the day with a five-course wine dinner at the Harbor View Hotel (6:30 p.m. Reservations strongly recommended).

Or plan to attend a screening of the award-winning film Four Games in Fall: The Deflategate Documentary (7:30 p.m.), which examines the highly topical issues of media manipulation, science for hire, and perversion of the legal system. There will be a post-screening Q&A with director Julie Marron and Executive Producer Kurt Redfield.

Or dance the night away at the Ritz to support Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary's Bird-a-thon fundraiser. The Minnesingers are also having their 50th anniversary spring concert tonight at 7:00 p.m. (They sing again tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.) And the Charter School Spring Fling fundraiser is at the P.A. Club at 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 13 | To the Lighthouse

This morning, celebrate Mother's Day with brunch at Edgartown Diner (8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) or head out to Winnetu Oceanside Resort for brunch, a rose for mom, a glowing fire pit, a ride in an antique fire truck, and more (12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m).

And great news, the Oak Bluffs Open Market kicks off for the season at 10:00 a.m. this morning. Featherstone's new exhibit, The Art of Flowers, begins with a reception this afternoon from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and a spectacular way to end the day is a special Mother's Day tour of Gay Head Light at sunset (5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.).

Tuesday, May 15 | Making A Paper for 172 Years

Please join us today at 5:15 p.m. for a very special Tuesdays in the Newsroom event: How We Make the Paper.To celebrate our 172nd birthday, we bring you behind the scenes to hear from the people who literally make the newspaper each week. Our editorial, advertising, design, production, and printing staff will take you through each step (including a sample run of the press) of the weekly publication process. Learn what has changed (and what hasn't) in the the ways newspapers come together since the Vineyard Gazette began publishing on May 14, 1846.

Han Solo, the Serengeti, Alison Shaw, MVY, Jeff Bridges, the Grange Hall, Polly Hill, Cheryl Stark, Mytoi, the Yard, Love and Bananas, Johnny Hoy: Art meets life on the Vineyard this holiday weekend. An explosion of films, art shows, museum exhibits, commemorative events, classes, book talks, and outdoor explorations take us back to the future as we honor the past and imagine where we might be on a Memorial Day weekend some few years to come.

It seems fitting that we celebrate freedom of expression on a weekend when we honor those who sacrificed their lives to protect it—and all of the freedoms we enjoy.

To that end, we will put our gratitude to good use and enjoy the present as best we can. Tonight you can kick off the weekend with two worthwhile events: the opening night reception for the Friends of Family Planning Art Show, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ag Hall and the opening night event for the 2018 MV Environmental Film Festival—the powerful film called Living in the Future’s Past, narrated by Jeff Bridges and showing at the Film Center at 7:30 p.m.

Oh and by the way, the Capawock reopens for the season tonight with Solo: A Star Wars Story showing at 7:00 p.m.

Friday, May 25 | What's Old is New

The Old Sculpin Gallery opens for the season today. Stop by from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you're free this morning join the Menemsha Hills Beach & Trail Clean-up at 11:00 a.m. This afternoon and tonight, don't miss a chance to see one of two cool films in the festival: The Gardener at 4:00 p.m. and Chasing the Thunder at 7:30 p.m. There is live music tonight at the Ritz, The Port Hunter, and the Wharf.

Saturday, May 26 | Plants Pop Up

If you love plants, jump in your car and hit three great plant sales today: The annual spring plant sale is on at Polly Hill Arboretum from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff will be on hand to answer questions. The MV Garden Club has its annual plant sale and fundraiser at the Old Mill from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and the high school plant sale continues today from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Go for a honey bee hive tour at Norton Farm at 9:00 a.m.

We always look forward to the first Vineyard Artisans event of the season, happening this weekend at the Grange Hall today and tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friends of the late jeweler Cheryl Stark will want to join the Vineyard Haven gathering at 10:30 a.m. today to name the park next to her store in her honor.

Tonight, choose one from seven different art opening receptions — or travel around to a few!

And by the way, there's a chicken pop-up dinner at the Beach Plum Inn tonight.

Sunday, May 27 | Run the farthest

The 25th annual Oak Bluffs Road Race alights from Summercamp hotel at 9:30 a.m. Watch the start, visit the Oak Bluffs Open Market, have brunch at The Cardboard Box, sit for a spell in Ocean Park, and enjoy your Sunday.

Over in Edgartown, the lighthouse is open to the public today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Rosewater Wine and Spirits is having a Washashore Beer Tasting from noon to 3 p.m.

Tonight the Environmental Film Festival concludes with The Farthest, a film about the Voyager space craft, showing at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, May 28 | Remembering

Don't miss the Memorial Day Parade in Vineyard Haven, starting at 10:30 a.m. from American Legion Post 257 and ending in Oak Grove Cemetary. The Memorial Day picnic follows at noon at the Tashmoo Spring Building.

Put on your party dress—or that new Vineyard Vines tie—and join us tonight at the 2018 Best of the Vineyard Party at Farm Neck Golf Club, sponsored by Martha's Vineyard Magazine. We're psyched to be kicking off the summer season with an event that offers suspense, food, drink, music, fun and great company. Find out who won the votes for top pick (and runner-up) in 87 different categories—from best art gallery to best clambake, best hotel to best auto repair shop. While online ticket sales end at 8 a.m. this morning, tickets can be purchased at the door starting at 6 p.m.

Perhaps the biggest reason for celebrating this weekend is this: the class of 2018 fills the Tabernacle on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. for the MVRHS graduation ceremonies. Class night is Friday night at 6:30 p.m. Check the Vineyard Gazette online for reports throughout the weekend.

And on Saturday, the bell will ring at the Grange Hall: It's opening day for the West Tisbury Farmer's Market. Hurrah! Be there at 9 a.m for fresh greens, fresh bread, local cheese and yogurt, eggs, meat, honey, coffee, pies and more. The market ends at noon.

Friday, June 8 | The Odyssey

Who wouldn't want to go on an osprey odyssey? This morning at 11 a.m. you can join the Trustees of Reservations and osprey expert Dick Jennings for a presentation and a drive through Cape Pogue Wildlife Refuge to learn how a Vineyard population of two breeding pairs of osprey in 1971 has grown to more than 80 today. Pre-registration required.

This evening we're going to grab a lobster roll at Grace Church (available 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and then head over to the film center for a 7:30 p.m.showing of Wim Wenders' new documentary, Pope Francis—A Man of His Word. During last week's screeening of RBG (still showing at the film center), we saw the trailer for Pope Francis, and it looks captivating.

For those of you participating in the Pink Squid Yacht Club Fishing Tournament (a benefit for The Martha's Vineyard Boys and Girls Club), the captain's meeting is at 6 p.m tonight at the Wharf Pub. The tournament begins at 6 a.m. tomorrow morning with weigh-in from 2 p.m to 4 p.m.

Saturday, June 9 | Painterly

This morning, if you're not heading to the farmers' market, you can plan to visit Polly Hill for a fruit-tree pruning workshop with Ian Jochems, or you can sign up for a furniture painting class at Refabulous Decor, both at 9 a.m.

Tonight some of us will be at the Shark tank to watch the MV Sharks play the Wareham Gatemen at 5:30 p.m. If there's time after that, we're taking the family to Sea Smoke for barbecue. And a bunch of us are heading up to the Ag Hall at 7:00 p.m. for a screening of the film, A Painter Who Farms, about West Tisbury's own Allen Whiting.

Sunday, June 10 | Rainy Day plans

Should it shower today, you've got plenty of choices for (artful) indoor activites. The Vineyard Artisans Festival kicks into its summer schedule today with a 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. show at the Grange Hall. The Hebrew Center hosts a talk called "On the Edge in Cuba" this morning at 10:30 a.m. Over at Featherstone, the "Explore the Vineyard" art show, with photographs of Island trails featured in the new Trails app, is open today from noon to 4 p.m.

At 4 p.m at the MV Film Center, you can screen the new film "Always at the Carlyle," which brings to life the legendary New York hotel through the voices of its own employees and clientele, including George Clooney, Harrison Ford and Anthony Bourdain.

And from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. tonight, the Old Sculpin Gallery welcomes the newest members of the Martha's Vineyard Art Association, Alexis Rusillo and Judith Howells, with an opening reception.

There is nothing subtle about Martha’s Vineyard, including the start of summer. Just like that, the temps shot up last weekend, the scraggly wild roses bloomed and loomed over every bend in the road, and the traffic tripled. Simply walking the dog across the street became an Olympic sport.

Yesterday was the first Wednesday farmers’ market; the first Chilmark Flea is on Saturday. Day One of the Fair is exactly eight weeks from today. So listen, when you catch us complaining about the heat and the traffic, tell us to go take a hike (literally). These are the days we wait for the other 40-odd weeks of the year, so we should all be taking a cue from the kids, who innately know how to enjoy a good thing: eat watermelon, jump off the bridge, visit a farm, paddle a kayak.

Friday, June 22 | Around the Island

Wow, we are going to have to move fast to fit in everything today. We'll start up-Island with a stop at both the Blooming Art Show (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Old Mill in West Tisbury) and the Antiques/Vintage Show and Sale (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grange Hall). We may stay in Chilmark for a cheese tasting at The Grey Barn and Farm at 1:30 p.m. Or we may make our way back down-Island and spend the afternoon in a cool movie theater. Jaws, anyone? 3 p.m. at the Capawock. Or how about Concert for George, this afternoon's featured Filmusic Festival film that covers a tribute to George Harrison at London's Royal Albert Hall. It plays at the Film Center at 4 p.m.

Tonight we're looking forward to Magic at Misty, a benefit for the Martha's Vineyard Community Horse Center (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.). The Sharks also play at the Shark Tank tonight at 6:30 p.m., and the Museum's annual summer opening party is at 5 p.m. in Edgartown. Vineyard Sound will sing at Trinity Church at 8 p.m., and The Sultans are on at the Atlantic

Saturday, June 23 |

Hey, want an introduction to sailing? Today SailMV is having a great event called Soggy Saturday, where you can get a 45-minute introduction to sailing, windsurfing, or rowing. Call ahead to reserve a spot. If you're looking for something a little unusual to do, try a historic cemetery walk. Meet at the Oak Bluffs library at 10 a.m. And Magic at Misty continues today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with fun ways for everyone to connect with the horses.

We wouldn't miss the Strawberry Festival today at the West Tisbury Congregational Church (noon to 4 p.m.), where we have a standing order for strawberry shortcake, but being strawberry nuts, we will also stop by Morning Glory Farm for their Strawberry Festival as well (11 a.m to 3 p.m.).

Tonight we'll be at the Martha's Vineyard Playhouse watching a preview of Gwyn McAllister's new play (directed by M.J. Bruder Munafo), a gardening farce called Passionata (7:30 p.m.). If we're really ambitious, we'll first sneak in a movie, the new Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, at the Strand at 5 p.m.

Sunday, June 24

A lovely way to enjoy this Sunday would be a gallery stroll—there are a number of exhibits opening with parties this afternoon and evening. We're going to drop by Featherstone at 4 p.m. for The Art of Jewelry Exhibition and Sale to help celebrate the opening of their new jewelry studio. Then we're heading to the Granary Gallery for the opening of the first show of the season, featuring the work of Alison Shaw, Scott Terry and Wendy Lichtensteiger (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.).

Tonight we'll be at the Film Center for a special screening of Fair Game at 7:30 p.m., where Director Doug Liman and film subject Valerie Plame will be live for a post-screening Q&A of this new cut of the film based on real events. If you're in the mood to laugh (who isn't?), head to the Hebrew Center for a night of comedy with Marty Nadler at 7:30 p.m.

Now that we've marched in the parade, watched the fireworks, and pretty much exhausted our wardrobe of red, white, and blue outfits (and exhausted ourselves), there's nothing better to do in this langorous heat than to head to the beach. Grab the sunshine while you can; cooler, cloudier weather is headed our way this weekend. Not that there's anything wrong with that—there are literally hundreds of events on the Island over the next several days that are actually pleasant to do in lower humidity.

Choose from more than a dozen art openings (including the festive Arts District Stroll in Oak Bluffs), at least four or five different choices for live music every night this week; a film lineup that includes something for everyone; 50 or so nature talks and tours; and oh, about 60 classes in everything from stand up paddle board qigong to ocean swimming.

One way or the other we always seem to wind up back in the water.

Friday, July 6 | Vintage Favorites

The Antiques/Vintage Show & Sale is going on from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m at the Grange Hall in West Tisbury today. If you're up-Island, you could take a guided tour of Polly Hill Arboretum at 10 a.m. One of our favorite Friday afternoon destinations is Bad Martha's Brewery, where live music (Luke Gabordi and Mike Wheeler this week) starts on the patio at 3 p.m. But we might also head over to Vineyard Haven, where First Friday is going on starting at 4 pm. Meet artists and designers and grab refreshments, too.

If you're up for an adventure with the kids, pop over to Chappy for Great Goldfish Day at Mytoi gardens and help release the goldfish in MyToi pond. The event starts at 4 p.m. Get back in time to catch the MV Sharks play the North Shore Navigators at the Shark Tank at 6 p.m.

Tonight we're looking forward to a favorite summer tradition— A Magical Evening with Livingston Taylor at the Old Whaling Church (7:45 p.m.).

Saturday, July 7 | Live from Cottage City

We're all about Oak Bluffs today, starting with the annual Tabernacle Flea Market (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). This morning, we might eat breakfast at Biscuits and then head in to the Camp Ground to poke around the flea market.

After a dip in the Inkwell, we'll head back over to Dukes County Ave. for the Arts District Stroll at 4 p.m. On the way over, we'll stop in at the Oak Bluffs Library. We're big fans of illustrator Jack Ryan, who's new exhibit of drawings goes on display today at the library, with a reception beginning at 4 p.m. Once we get to the Stroll, we can pop into the Alison Shaw Gallery for an opening exhibit of her new photographs.

Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish are live at the Ritz tonight at 10 p.m. and the Cardboard Box (try the fried calamari) is open late if you need a nibble.

Sunday, July 8 | All's Fair

For a fascinating start to the day, take a seat in Union Chapel at 9:45 a.m.to hear Rev. Dr. Eboni Marshall Turman, PhD, Yale Divinity School, deliver the Sunday sermon. Dr. Turman's passion and research centers on black and womanist theology.

Tonight you can check out the Tisbury Street Fair from 6:30 pm. to 9:30 p.m. If you're a Marvel superhero fan, know that Ant Man and the Wasp plays at the Capawock at 5 p.m and 8 p.m. Or you can catch the romantic comedy, Keep the Change, playing at the Hebrew Center tonight at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Summer Film Institute.

Or you could go for a peaceful drive to the Granary Gallery in West Tisbury and see the new work from three distinguished Island artists: Cindy Kane, Kenneth Vincent, and David Wallis. An opening reception is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Here in the Gazette office there has been much discussion about blueberry picking. One staffer, famous for his blueberry jam, even revealed one of his secret spots. Another claims to be removing 10 berries a day from one lonely bush, trying to keep ahead of the birds and the squirrels. We learned that the ripest berries aren't just blue—they're a deep midnight blue with a starry sheen. All over the island, wild high-bush blueberries are ripening, tiny lowbush blueberries are popping up along wooded paths, and backyard berries are swathed in protective fabric or barricaded behind screens in a Herculean effort to outsmart blueberry-thieving critters.

If all this sounds like a lot of work, take heart. You don't need to pick your own berries. Just show up at the the West Tisbury Congregational Church on Saturday at noon. All the blueberry treats you could dream of await at the church's annual Blueberry Festival. Try the blueberry-peach cobbler or the blueberry-pomegranate smoothie. Sip on blueberry iced tea and take home a blueberry pie, a blueberry coffee cake, blueberry muffins, scones or even a jar of blueberry jam. Fresh flower bouquets will be for sale, too.

Mark Lovewell photo

Besides feasting on blueberries, we're going to spend as much time as we can outside this weekend enjoying the spectacular beauty of Martha's Vineyard in high summer. Tonight we start with a great event, the annual Water Tasting by the Sea to benefit the Vineyard House. The setting for this important fundraiser—the Friedman Estate on Oyster Pond—is one of the most beautiful on the Island.

Friday, July 20 | Drama Major

Tonight we’re picking up supper to go from the new Black Sheep Mercantile out at the airport and then heading to the Tisbury Amphitheater for a performance of Hamlet at 5 p.m. If you’re up for a late evening, join us in Edgartown later on for some live music. The Dock Dance Bank plays at the Port Hunter starting at 10 p.m. In the mood for a film instead? Sorry to Bother You, the new movie from Boots Riley, plays at the Strand at 8 p.m., and the true-crime thriller American Animals is on screen at the Capawock (also at 8 p.m.).

Saturday, July 21 | Fest or Feast

Before you hit the Blueberry Festival (between noon and 4 p.m.), why not head up to Aquinnah this morning—have breakfast at the Aquinnah Shop and then stop by the 12th Annual Native American Artisans Festival at the Aquinnah Cultural Center (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.). This afternoon between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., stop by the A Gallery on State Road in West Tisbury for an opening reception for artists Lily Morris, Jennifer Joanou, Brigitte Cornand, and James Langlois. Then you can head down to Oak Bluffs for the Portuguese Holy Ghost Feast & Festival, which starts at 5 p.m. (It continues on Sunday with a parade starting at 11 a.m.). The Featherstone Annual Gala is also on tonight, starting at 5 p.m. Honestly, there are really too many great events to choose from tonight.

Jeanna Shepard photo

Sunday, July 22 | Songs and Stories

We'd like to be at Union Chapel this morning at 11 a.m. to listen to the U.S. Slave Songs Spiritual Choir and to hear about the history of these important spirituals. After that we're retiring to the beach for the rest of the day until we enjoy our Sunday evening art stroll to galleries with openings, and then settle in our seats at the Chilmark Community Center to hear Seymour Hersh discuss his new book, Reporter, as part of the M.V. Author Series (7:30 p.m. at the Chilmark Community Center).

Sleeping is overrated. And, honestly, who needs down time? Well, we hope you’re rested, because here comes August on the Vineyard. You might just want to wear your sneakers to bed so you can get up and start moving the minute day breaks. A short nap will be permissible, though; if only for the fact that you may have to double up on nighttime activities—there are so many interesting events, films, shows, speakers and excursions that it will be hard to choose just one every day.

Wasting no time, let’s get on with the highlights of this weekend, starting with tonight. And please note, there’s no way we can list all of the good stuff in one newsletter—visit The Complete Martha's Vineyard Calendar for a comprehensive listing of events every day. You can search by day, week, or month—or by topic (kids, music, nature, art, etc.) if you like.

Thursday, August 2 | No Laughing Matter

Bring the whole family up to Menemsha this afternoon at 4 p.m. to Meet the Fleet and celebrate the Island's commercial fishing history. Music, food, demos, raffles, and more.

Tonight, Patti Griffin's in concert at the Old Whaling Church at 8 p.m. Read Holly Gleason's interview with Griffin in the Gazette.

And David Cohen, former Deputy Director of the CIA and former Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, speaks at the Hebrew Center as part of the Summer Institute speaker series at 7:30 p.m.

Tonight is also the second night of the Martha's Vineyard Comedy Fest, 7 p.m. at the Lampost.

Friday, August 3 | Decisions, decisions

Tonight, there's something for everyone, but making a choice may be tough.

Le Patin Libre, the riveting group of ice performers, returns to the Vineyard with its new show, Threshold, happening tonight at the MV Ice Arena at 7 p.m. and tomorrow (Saturday) at 11 a.m.

The Martha's Vineyard Film Festival is showing a free outdoor screening of the documentary about surfer Bethany Hamilton at Owen Park Beach at 8 p.m.

The M.V. Film Society's Documentary Week continues with a screening of 306 Hollywood, a film about two siblings who undertake an excavation of their late grandmother's house (7:30 p.m.).

Tonight is the first night of the Martha's Vineyard Gospel Fest. Piano/organ virtuoso Quennel Gaskin and renowned saxaphonist Michael Gayle will perform an evening of jazz, classical and contemporary Christian music at Union Chapel, starting at 7 p.m..

Simultaneously, The African American Literature & Culture Festival is holding its art gala from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Oak Bluffs Library. The work of James W. Jennings, Suesan Stovall and Jordan Burnham will be featured, with music by Papa J.

Saturday, August 4 | Art for Art

The African American Literary and Cultural Festival continues today with an exciting lineup at the Oak Bluffs Library that includes author LaShonda Katrice Barnett (Jam on the Vine) at 11 a.m.

We'll be at the Grange Hall some time between 4 p.m and 8 p.m. today, because we don't want to miss artist Margot Datz's Annual Art Show. This year the theme is party animals. We're also planning to hit the Arts District Stroll in Oak Bluffs between 4 p.m and 7 p.m. (Yes, we have our sneakers on and the car gassed up.)

Some of us are going to skip the cross-Island dash and hang in Edgartown for the evening, starting with the Sip & Shop event at Edgar to support the Vineyard Conservation Society (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.). We may also stop in at Rosewater Market for the Farmhouse Pottery Trunk Show (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.) We're looking forward to hearing international opera star Laquita Mitchell in concert tonight at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church at 7 p.m.

Sunday, August 5 | Calorie Burn

We weren't kidding about the sneakers: This morning we're doing the annual Amity 5K, starting at the FARM Institute at 9 a.m. That's so we can burn some calories and make room for tonight's launch of the new cookbook, Chef Deon's Island Conch Cookery, by Chef Deon Thomas with photographs by Vineyard photographer Randi Baird. The party starts at 5 p.m at the Oak Bluffs VFW.

After that we might head over to the East Chop Lighthouse, which is open for sunset viewing only on Sunday nights. Tonight there's music to go along with the view: The M.V. Spirituals Choir will perform starting at 6 p.m.

Up in Chilmark, the M.V. Author Series continues with a talk and signing by Cecile Richards, author of Make Trouble: Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Finding the Courage to Lead, a memoir of her leadership of Planned Parenthood. The program begins at 7:30 p.m. In Vineyard Haven, the Summer Institute Film at the Hebrew Center tonight is a riveting one: Foxtrot shows at 7:30 p.m.

The next few days require a strategy. With the Fair in West Tisbury, the fireworks in Oak Bluffs, a killer lineup of films in Vineyard Haven and Edgartown — plus speakers, book signings and more, you will need to plan ahead (and leave plenty of time to negotiate traffic!). To that end, we've put together a sample itinerary, with options, to help you plan for the best weekend of the summer on Martha's Vineyard. Have a great time, be safe, take lots of photos — and we hope you win a ribbon at the Fair. As always, you can take a look at our calendar for a complete list of the weekend's events.

Thursday, August 16 | See You at The Fair

We think tonight is a perfect night to visit the 157th Martha's Vineyard Agricultural Fair. It's opening night, the buzz is palpable as folks steam into the Hall to see the exhibits, and this year, the Fair folks are bringing in some fresh musical talent, starting with the Indie-soul act Dwight and Nicole, who will be onstage in the new music tent starting at 8:00 p.m. Go early and check out the animal barn before the magnificent oxen start leaving (some depart Thursday night after their events, some Friday). Do a few rides on the Midway and then grab a bite; you don't have to go the tempura, burger, and fried dough route—there are locally sourced tacos, sandwiches, and other healthy (well, sort of) treats, too.

We understand if the Fair isn't your thing. The MV Author Series has a great speaker tonight at the Chilmark Community Center, starting at 7:30 p.m.: Tayari Jones will talk about her novel, An American Marriage, a beautifully written book that was a 2018 Oprah Book Club selection. And a great collection of Historic Movies of Martha's Vineyard plays at the MV Film Center tonight at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, August 17 | Fireworks Dazzle

You might want to arrange your day starting backwards. The fireworks in Oak Bluffs start at 9 p.m. The Vineyard Haven Band starts playing in Ocean Park at 8 p.m. You could grab some takeout from Gio's or Dilly's Taqueria or get an early dinner anywhere in Oak Bluffs before that, then set up your beach chairs in the park.

Highlights at the Fair today include the draft horse pulling contest, the corn shucking contest, and sheep judging in the barn. Be sure to visit the fiber tent where spinning and weaving demonstrations, as well as sheep shearing and working dog demonstrations, happen all day long.

Tonight if you're not up for the fireworks crowds, there's live music in Edgartown and plenty of other spots around the Island. In Vineyard Harven, two critically acclaimed films, BlackkKlansman and Crazy Rich Asians, play at the Capawock (5 p.m. and 8 p.m. respectively).

Saturday, August 18 | Around the Island

You will definitely want to add extra time for a drive up-Island this morning if you want to hit the Chilmark Flea Market (starting at 9 a.m.), the West Tisbury Farmers' Market (opening at 9 a.m.), or get an early start on the Fair (gates open at 10 a.m.).

Schedule in plenty of beach time, reading time, or down time this afternoon, because your options tonight are plenty: Tony award-winning singer Audra McDonald performs at the Martha's Vineyard Performing Arts Center at 8 p.m.; the Built on Stilts Festival continues in its second weekend at Union Chapel at 8 p.m., and a preview of the new play Chilmark happens at the Martha's Vineyard Playhouse at 7:30 p.m.. The Dock Dance Band plays at the Fair at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 19 | Art for Our Sake

Sundays on the Vineyard are dedicated to artists, starting with the Artisans Festival at the Grange (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and ending with art openings all over the Island: the Granary Gallery in West Tisbury, the Sargent Gallery in Aquinnah, and the Old Sculpin in Edgartown, to name a few. In between, there's the 9th Annual Potters Bowl at Featherstone Center for the Arts from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Fair runs from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. today.

Relief from the heat arrives tomorrow and with it the bittersweet end to the summer. Labor Day weekend is that last long goodbye—to families (cousins and aunts and uncles parting ways until next year), to houses (floors swept of sand, curtains washed, windows shuttered), and to the Island (one last swim, one last lobster roll, one last bonfire). The intermission of summer is over; time, like the movie reel, starts rolling again now that school looms. Nostalgia seeps in to muddle the mix of feelings; no matter how distant school days are for some of us, we all instinctively remember the excitement and trepidation of the start of a new year. And we all begin to anticipate the dramatic changes that fall brings, even though we are lucky on the Vineyard to witness them in slow motion.

Perhaps your weekend plans should be no more ambitious than gathering friends and family for delicious meals, for drinks on the deck, for walks on the beach, or for ice cream runs, but if you'd like to fill in with a film, a show, a concert, a market, or any one of several interesting events, the Island has conspired to deliver that — and more — this Labor Day weekend.

Friday, August 31 | All that Jazz

With the Derby starting next weekend, we're definitely going to take advantage of a special fishing workshop with the legendary Janet Messineo being hosted by ACE MV this morning. It runs from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. The location will be announced to all who attend that morning. This afternoon we're taking friends to experience a cheese tasting and experience at the Grey Barn and Farm at 1:30 p.m.

At 5 p.m., some of us are heading to the ag hall for opening night of the Vineyard Artisans Labor Day Weekend Festival, which also runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. And some of us are going to hear SAGE, the all women's jazz and blues supergroup performing for the second night of the MV Jazz and Blues Summerfest. The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown.

Saturday, September 1 | Showtime

Take it easy this morning with a stroll through the Chilmark Flea, the West Tisbury Farmers' Market, or the Vineyard Artisans Festival. Or visit Felix Neck for a Climate Change Walk and Talk at 10 a.m. Then chill out at home or on the beach, because the evening is full of great choices.

For art lovers, the Louisa Gould Gallery in Vineyard Haven is having its 11th Annual Invitation Abstract Show, with a kickoff party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. tonight. Six local artists will be included: Jo-Ann Bates, Michaele Christian, Roberta Gross, Martha Mae Jones, Laura D. Roosevelt (photograph at right) and Chetta Kelly. The show will run through September 12. Also, tonight is the Oak Bluffs Art District Stroll from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the opening of a new show at the Alison Shaw Gallery at 4 p.m.

For music lovers, Grammy-nominated Jazz and R&B songstress Alyson Williams performs tonight at Union Chapel at 6:30 p.m. as part of the MV Jazz and Blues Summerfest. And there are many more great options for live music lovers at venues all over the Island tonight.

For film lovers, Crazy Rich Asians (5:00 p.m.) and BlackkKlansman (8:00 p.m.) play at the Capawock tonight and the new film Puzzle plays at the MV Film Center at 7:30 p.m. And mark your calendars for the Martha's Vineyard International Film Festival which begins next week.

And for theater lovers, don't miss the new play Chilmark at the Vineyard Playhouse. Chilmark takes place in the late 19th century when many members of the Island's up-Island community were deaf-mute. (Read more about director Catherine Rush here.) Tonight's performance begins at 7:30 p.m. For dance lovers, visit the Yard for a performance by the Schonberg Fellows tonight at 7 p.m.

Sunday, September 2 | In the open air

Visit the Oak Bluffs Open Market today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or head over to Edgartown for a Harbor Tour at 12:30 p.m. Afterwards, have lunch and do a little shopping in town, then visit the charming Old Sculpin Gallery at 5 p.m. for the opening reception of the AIRE MV artists' show at 5 p.m.

Head back to Oak Bluffs to catch the sunset from East Chop Lighthouse (opening at 6 p.m.) or to watch tonight's Summerfest performance at Union Chapel — three-time Grammy nominee (and former back-up singer to Stevie Wonder) Maysa. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m.

Or if you're feeling like you'd rather relax in a cool movie theater, the well-reviewed film Eighth Grade plays today at 4 p.m at the Capawock Theater in Vineyard Haven. Crazy Rich Asians shows at 7 p.m.

With country music songwriters coming to town this weekend for the sixth annual New England to Nashville Martha's Vineyard Songwriters' Festival, we've been thinking about all the ways the Island could be the subject of a country music hit: "On the Island Again," "I Hope You Dance (at the Ritz)," "The Devil Went Down to Menemsha," "Your Cheatin' Chilmark Heart." Okay, we'd better leave the songwriting to the pros; but we are excited about the event, especially the songwriting workshop on Saturday and the "Behind the Curtains" show at the Strand on Saturday night featuring songwriters telling backstories and rising stars singing a few tunes. The rising stars will also perform on Circuit Avenue on Saturday afternoon.

If you're not (yet) a country music convert, don't worry, your musical options are still plenty for the weekend. Sunday night at the Tisbury Water Works, internationally acclaimed jazz musician Stan Strickland will perform a solo composition, Seeking Stillness Through the Roots of Afro-Asian Jazz & Blues at 6:30 p.m. Some serious talent — Rosie's Ritzy Revue — will be on stage at the Ritz Saturday night at 7 p.m. And there's opera on film at the Edgartown Library on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Even if you don't make it to a show, all you really need is a September sunrise on South Beach (like the one above) and you'll be singing, "I will always love you," to our treasured Island.

Friday, September 14 | Rock, Paper, Skates

If you haven't seen the amazing pen and ink drawings done by Island artist Jack Ryan, be sure to get to his latest show at the Vineyard Haven Public Library. Visit today between 1 p.m and 5 p.m.

Public ice skating is back; head to the MV Ice Arena today from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Before it fills up, we're going to reserve a spot in "Our Island's Geology," a cool Ace MV course being taught by principal earth scientist Doug Cooper. The course begins with a two-hour intro tonight and winds up with a field trip tomorrow morning.

We're also excited about the launch of local builder and sailor Gary Maynard's first novel, Plumbelly. It's a coming-of-age story set in the remote Pacific. Head to Bunch of Grapes bookstore at 7:00 p.m. tonight for a talk and signing.

Saturday, September 15 | The End Run

It's Tivoli Day! Head to Oak Bluffs with the kids for this fun annual end-of-summer street festival which runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The MV NAACP George V. Tankard Jr. Memorial 5K & Fun Run takes off from the Summercamp hotel this morning at 10:30 a.m. Watch the finish and then grab some barbecue for lunch at Sea Smoke restaurant, which has just added lunch service this fall.

The FARM Institute is bringing back farm dinners this fall, so tonight at 5:30 you can head to Katama for some family-friendly fun. Pre-registration is encouraged.

You can find us at the MV Film Center tonight for a 7:30 p.m. screening of The Wife, starring Glenn Close and Jonathan Pryce.

Sunday, September 16 | Big Fish, Little Fish

At 6 a.m. this morning, little fishermen and fisherwomen will be gathering at the Oak Bluffs Ferry Wharf for the annual Kid's Derby, rain or shine.

At 8 a.m., the 8th Annual Golf Classic benefiting Hospice of Martha's Vineyard will get going at Mink Meadows Golf Club. And another 5K run (and walk) — this one to benefit the Vineyard Haven Public Library — sets off for West Chop at 9:45 a.m.

Islanders will want to stop by the Cardboard Box from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the fundraiser for Islander Eric Voshell, who was critically injured in a motorcyle accident. You can stop by the Oak Bluffs Open Market afterwards, or hop in the car and head up-Island to the Vineyard Artisans Festival at the Grange Hall.

Tonight we're catching another new movie — this one the surprising documentary about three identical brothers separated at birth and reunited later. Three Identical Strangers screens at 7:30 p.m.

Photo, above right: Jeanna Shepard

Rainbows, storm clouds, firey red sunsets — the sky has put on a show every night this week. Today's soundtrack is the rattling of windows, the whistle of a passing gust—the breeze now an impressive 20 knots. The sun sets at 6:30 p.m. tonight. It is fall. Sigh. So beautiful on the one hand; poignant, even foreboding on the other.

At times we feel like nature is all the entertainment we need, but we're grateful for the Playhouse, the Film Center, the Ritz, the PA club, the ice arena, the libraries, the farmers' market, and all the other Island spots where warmth, entertainment and fellowship wait for us.

Friday, September 28 | Going to the Dogs

If you're a dog lover, tonight at 5 p.m. you can grab a seat at the Strand theater and watch the documentary Pick of the Litter about a litter of puppies training to be seeing eye dogs. (100% on Rotten Tomatoes!). After that you'll still have time to stop in at the P.A. club for the Animal Shelter's free celebration of 1,000 pets placed in Island homes. (Food and music from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.)

Also for film buffs: The Manhattan Short Film Festival continues tonight; viewers will get to vote on the best short films of the year (7:30 p.m., MV Film Center).

If you're a hockey fan, you'll want to know about The Inaugural Island of Heroes Cup, which kicks off tonight at 7 p.m. Members of the military, police, fire and EMS departments will skate against each other in the three-day event.

Saturday, September 29 | Up and Down

If you like to watch good tennis, head to Farm Neck Golf Club this morning for the Martha's Vineyard Senior Men's Doubles Championships. Sanctioned by the United States Tennis Association (USTA), and designated as a national level tournament, the event will feature some of the top men's senior doubles players from across the country and Canada.

While the Chilmark Flea is done for the season, you can still head up Island to the West Tisbury Farmers' Market which will continue at the Grange Hall through next weekend and will shift to the Ag Hall on October 13. Or head down-Island with the kids to the Oak Bluffs Library for a Coast Guard Touch-a-Boat event from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

This afternoon at the Film Center, catch a screening of Love Gilda at 4 p.m. or screen more of the short films in the Manhattan Short Film Festival at 7:30 p.m. A Simple Favor plays at the Capawock at 7 p.m.

Sunday, September 30 | Fore!

The 30th annual Big Golf Fore Kids tournament, which benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters on Martha's Vineyard, takes place at Mink Meadows Golf Club starting at 7 a.m. this morning.

If you're planning on starting the morning a little later than 7 a.m., know that the Vineyard Artisans Festival begins at 10 a.m. at the Grange Hall and the Oak Bluffs Open Market starts at 10 a.m. in Washington Park.

The Ice Arena is open for public skating at 4:20 p.m.

And the Manhattan Shorts Festival concludes at the Film Center at 4 p.m.

Have a great weekend!

Photo, top right: Eli Dagostino

The universe wants us to chill out this weekend — quite literally (the forecast is for much cooler temps) — but also in less obvious ways. The calendar is infused with yoga retreats, nature walks, and activities that inspire us to get cozy, like the first indoor farmers' market of the season. The fire will be roaring and hot soup for sale in the Ag Hall, where friends who haven't seen each other all summer will plunk down on the white ladder-back benches to chat and catch up.

And of course a great spot to meet friends this weekend is Morning Glory Farm's Pumpkin Festival. Nothing could be cheerier (and more comforting) than a sea of orange pumpkins, pumpkin treats to eat, and hay rides with the kids.

And while there are other fun and inspiring ways to relax this weekend (including a special sunset lighthouse tour of Cape Pogue), we know where many of you will be (even if we don't know your exact location!) — fishing, of course. After all, Saturday is the last day of the Derby. See you at the awards on Sunday.

Friday, October 12 | Tea and Company

Begin the weekend with one of two yoga retreats at the Yoga Barn or a talk on meditation and how it connects to your well-being (West Tisbury Library, 7 p.m.). Or simply have Tea With the Dames at the MV Film Center (7:30 p.m.). This entertaining film brings four legends of British stage and screen — Dame Maggie Smith, Dame Judi Dench, Dame Eileen Atkins and Dame Joan Plowright — together for a lively conversation.

If you're looking for a more spirited evening, there's Pickle Ball (7:30 p.m., Airport Fitness), Gold Pin Bowling (9 p.m., Barn, Bowl & Bistro), and live music from the Mike Benjamin Band (Port Hunter, 10 p.m.) and The Phil daRosa Project (10 p.m. at the Ritz).

Saturday, October 13 | Pumpkin Chunkin

We're looking forward to a guided walk through Brookside Ridge Preserve today at 10 a.m. The group will meet at the trailhead for the Land Bank's Tiasquam Valley Reservation on Middle Road and explore the Steve Crampton Trail and other woodlands paths, as well as a magnificent grove of American Beeches.

After that we head to Morning Glory for the Pumpkin Festival (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). And if the weather takes a turn for the wetter, we might catch a Hitchcock film at the Edgartown Library (3 p.m to 5 p.m.).

Tonight is the first annual Fish Fry fundraiser at Trinity Worship Center in Oak Bluffs (5 p.m.). And the new movie Colette plays at the Edgartown Cinemas at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, October 14 | Fish and Fiber Folks

Fiber folks are gathering at the Ag Hall at 1 p.m., the Derby Awards happen at Farm Neck at 1 p.m., and opera buffs can head to the Edgartown library at 1 p.m. for a filmed version of Rigoletto.

We're going to support the CROP Hunger walk today, which begins at 2 p.m. at St. Augustine's Church in Vineyard Haven. Funds raised benefit both the Island Food Pantry and global relief organizations.

After the walk, we're heading over to Featherstone at 4 p.m. for the opening reception of The Art of Boat Building at 4 p.m.

And why not take a Ballroom Dancing class tonight at Barn, Bowl & Bistro? Class begins at 7 p.m.

In case you missed the towering candy display at the grocery store or the alien exhibit at Ghost Island Farm, we're obligated to inform you that All Hallow's Eve (otherwise known as Halloween) is next Wednesday. Consider yourself warned. Now either get in the spirit (lots of help with that this weekend) or draw your shades.

For those of you who can't wait until Wednesday (or who are scared of the dark), there are actual trick-or-treating events during the day in both Oak Bluffs and Edgartown this weekend. Businesses in both towns will be giving out treats to little goblins and mini-superheroes, so if you hang around with the under-13 crowd, maybe you can stash some candy.

If your tastes run more towards fresh fall veggies and less to Snickers and Butterfingers, you can visit the fall farmers' market this weekend with the family and keep everyone happy: Kids can carve pumpkins and meet a sheep, you can shop for local honey, freshly dug turnips and beets, greens, cheese, sea salt, wool, soaps, fall flowers (right) and more.

And then you can go home and toast pumpkin seeds, make pumpkin soup, and sip pumpkin-spiced lattes. Or not.

Friday, October 26 | Spooky

The fun begins this weekend with a Spooky Fun Halloween party at the Edgartown School at 5 p.m. and with a Tarots and Treats event at Not Your Sugar Mama's in Vineyard Haven (5:30 to 7 p.m.).

If you insist on being frightened, you could also head to Edgartown Cinemas for a showing of Venom at 6:15. Or stick with heartbreak and see A Star is Born (at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. at Edgartown Cinemas). Robert Redford stars in The Old Man with the Gun, on screen at the MV film center at 7:30 p.m. tonight. The Grateful Dread play at The Port Hunter in Edgartown at 10 p.m.

Saturday, October 27 | Warm and Fuzzy

In addition to all the Halloween activities today — including Halloween in Oak Bluffs (10 a.m.) and the Barnyard Boo/Haunted Barn event at the FARM Institute (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.) — there are plenty of excuses to get outside and enjoy the fall weather. While you're at the farmers' market, check out the Fall Fuzzy Horse Show at the Ag Hall from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sign the kids up to become a Junior Ranger (a land and wildlife steward) with the Trustees of Reservations; today's workshop is from 10 a.m. to noon. Or go on one of Robert Culbert's Guided Birding Tours.

Tonight's parties include a Halloween Spooktacular at The Cardboard Box in Oak Bluffs (10 p.m.) and a Halloween Party at the Loft at 10 p.m.

Sunday, October 28 | Treats, No Tricks

Middletown Nursery hosts a Family Fun Day today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Edgartown's Happy Haunting begins at noon, and there's a Halloween Bowling Fundraiser (to benefit Harbor Homes of MV) from noon to 5 p.m. at Barn, Bowl & Bistro.

Take in a matinee this afternoon: First Man shows at 3:45 at the Edgartown Cinemas. A special screening of Being There, a film that shares the stories of four individuals from different cultures providing end-of-life care, shows at the M.V. Film Center at 4 p.m. Colette plays at 7 p.m.

The Holy Rock and Roll Revival is happening at the Ritz tonight at 7 p.m.

Photos: top right, Susie Middleton; bottom left, Tim Johnson

This week we surged to the polls. We gathered together—all faiths—at the Hebrew Center for Shabbat services. We thanked some heroes, and said goodbye to some friends. We celebrated a life of public service. We went to the fall farmers market and we danced at the Barnraisers' Ball. We kept each other company — something we will do here on this Island until the cows come home or at least as long as this moat surrounds us.

Lacking a bridge to America, we have the dumb luck to be stuck here in a community that cares about community. Winter is coming, but we will weather it.

This weekend, why not help with beach clean-up, join in the first VCS winter walk, or cheer on the Martha's Vineyard Harley riders as they roar around the Island on their annual Red Stocking Fund ride. Invite a friend to the movies, grab pizza.

And tonight, and every night, don't forget to look up at the stars.

Friday, November 9 | Dance, Dance, Dance

Tonight Pathways in Chilmark hosts a fine line-up of dancers and musicians followed by a dance party for all with a DJ. We Dance starts at 7 p.m. If you're hanging out down-Island, Chef Deon is putting on a Pig Roast Dinner at 5 p.m. to benefit The Greenhouse of Martha's Vineyard. The Space Invaders play at the Ritz at 10 p.m.

Or you could head to the movies after the pig roast: the riveting new film Wildlife, adapted from Richard Ford's novel and starring Carrie Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal, opens at the Film Center tonight at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 10 | Cinema Noir

"No timing, no tee shirts, no porta potties, no water stops...just a group run for a great cause." That's how the organizers of this year's Run for Veterans describe their event, which begins at the Right Fork Diner today at 9 a.m. Watch the start or join in yourself (walkers and donations welcome!), then head over to the Open House at Island Alpaca, starting at 10 a.m., where you'll have an opportunity to meet three baby alpacas. Or stay put in Katama and attend a class on Growing Garlic at the Farm Institute at 10 a.m.

Boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 9 can try out ice hockey for free today at 11 a.m. at the MV Ice Arena. After that, kids will enjoy the new animated Grinch movie (Dr. Seuss The Grinch in 3D) which is playing today at Edgartown Cinema at 1:30 and 4:30 p.m.

The MV Film Center Met Opera Live series continues today at 12:55 p.m. with Marnie, based on the novel that inspired Hitchcock's film by the same name.

At 2 p.m. you can participate in a Fall Wreaths Workshop at Morrice Florist. Call ahead to reserve a spot. Beautiful Boy plays at the Capawock tonight at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 11 | Fest First

The open house at Island Alpaca continues today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The first winter VCS walk begins at the Wakeman Conservation Center and will explore the network of trails around the fields, woods, cranberry bogs and ponds surrounding the center, as well as Duarte Pond and The Nature Conservancy's Hoft Farm (10 a.m. to noon).

The P.A. Club hosts GrooverFest today from 4 p.m. on in honor of musician Don Groover who is battling cancer. The line-up of talented musicians who will play includes The Space Invaders, John Alaimo, Rosie's Ritzy Revue, Missis Biskis, The Black-Eyed Susans, Johnny Hoy & the Bluefish and more.

Tonight First Man plays at the the Capawock at 7 p.m., and Free Solo plays at the MV Film Center at 7:30 p.m.

Some days, we wish we could go back in time. At other times, anticipation projects us madly into the future. We can't wait for whatever it is — Christmas, summer, vacation, a date. Staying present is hard; making time stand still impossible.

This weekend is a gift of time. It's a long one; nearly everyone has a little extra time off. It's as close as we can get to hitting the pause button before we shift gears and speed into the holiday season. We hope we can honor this gift with patience — and a lot of good food, long walks, great movies, new books, and even a bit of fun holiday shopping. No matter what we do, as long as we're with good friends and family, we have a chance of staying in the day.

Thursday, November 22 | Eat, Drink, Nap

If you wake up today needing a last minute Thanksgiving dinner reservation, here is a list of restaurants that are open for the holiday. If your family traditionally goes to the movies before or after the big meal on Thanksgiving Day, you'll be happy to know that the Edgartown Cinema is open and showing three films: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, Instant Family, and Dr. Seuss' the Grinch.

Friday, November 23 | Meet the Ponies

Forget Black Friday; you've got great holiday shopping options today right here on the Island. For locally made gifts, head to the Ag Hall for the Vineyard Artisans Annual Thanksgiving Weekend Festival (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Or check out the Thanksgiving Open House at Island Alpaca (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), the Holiday Open Market at the Ocean View in Oak Bluffs (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), or the Open House at Pathways (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

If you'd rather get fit than go shopping, why not sample a group exercise class at the Y's Turkey Burner Day (8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) or head outside for Felix Neck's 38th Annual Fall Festival. There will be hayrides, face-painting, live music, food, crafts for kids, live animals and trail walks — something for everyone. Also fun for the kids: Misty Meadow's Annual Open House (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

The new film starring Melissa McCarthy, Can You Ever Forgive Me?, is playing tonight at the MV Film Center at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 24 | Small Business Saturday

Start Small Business Saturday off by visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus at Linda Jean's in Oak Bluffs (9 a.m.). Featherstone's Holiday Gift Show is open from noon to 4 p.m.

Over in Vineyard Haven, the Vineyard Holiday Gift Shop featuring gifts made by favorite local artists and craftspeople, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stop by Bunch of Grapes bookstore between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m to get a signed copy of The New Cottage, architect Katie Hutchison's new book that includes three Island homes. Then head down to The Annex for a weekend sale featuring several designers.

There are a number of art openings around the Island today, including an opening reception for a show of photographs by the Gazette's own Vivian Ewing at the Chilmark Free Public Library (noon to 2 p.m.).

Sunday, November 25 | Lights, Camera, Action

Spend the afternoon at the movies: Bohemian Rhapsody plays at 4 p.m and 7 p.m today at the Capawock. And a special screening of Roma, courtesy of Netflix, plays at the film center at 4 p.m. Roma is a highly personal film from the Academy Award-winning director of the film Gravity, Alfonso Cuaron. Set in Mexico City during the political turmoil of the 1970s, it's the vivid and emotional portrait of domestic strife and social hierarchy amidst the political turmoil of the 1970s in Mexico City.

Tonight head over to Ocean Park any time starting at 5 p.m. for the Crosslands Annual Christmas Display.

Here at the Gazette, we've picked our Secret Santas, decorated the office, printed our custom wrapping paper, and washed our 1955 red Chevy 3100 truck in preparation for Saturday's parade — and our gift-wrapping open house afterwards.

We are possessed with a childlike glee about the holidays—about Christmas in Edgartown festivities, about First Friday shopping in Vineyard Haven, about the light displays in Oak bluffs. And Santa, of course.

This week we stopped into both Morning Glory Farm (photo top) and Donaroma's Nursery (photo left, below) on the way to work to see how they're getting ready for the big weekend. Morning Glory is swathed in greenery on the outside and sparkling with light and flowers on the inside, a handmade twig chandelier wrapped in tiny lights hanging from the rafters. The staff was setting up the model train village and preparing for their open house on Saturday (hayrides, s'mores, raffles and more).

Donaroma's is a virtual wonderland inside, with an ethereal white tree holding court under a galaxy of twinkling stars. Outside there are dozens of wreaths, tables of holiday greenery and plenty of winter garden decorations as well. On Saturday the talented folks in the floral department will be holding workshops on wreath-making. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the doors will open for the annual Twelve Days of Christmas stroll, benefiting the Boys and Girls Club.

We hear Katama General Store is getting ready for their pop-up shop this weekend, Rosewater Market is bringing back cookie decorating again this year, and the Carnegie is setting up a holiday craft-making area for kids in its activity room. Islanders are busier than elves this week.

Click here for a complete list of Christmas in Edgartown events. For highlights and more ideas for the weekend, read on.

Friday, December 7 | To the Lighthouse

Start the holiday weekend off with First Friday in Vineyard Haven, where shops along Main Street will feature pop-ups by local artists. The event, which also features food and live music, runs from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Or, if you're sticking close to Edgartown, start the afternoon off at Bad Martha's Season Finale (2 p.m. to 7 p.m.), then head over to Memorial Wharf, this year's viewing spot for the lighting of the Edgartown lighthouse. Starting at 4:30 p.m., the photobus will be on the scene, ready to take your picture with Santa. The lighthouse lighting happens at 6 p.m.

Tonight the first Minnesingers holiday concert takes place at the Old Whaling Church at 7:30 p.m. Saturday's performance will be at 4 p.m.

Saturday, December 8 | Jingle all the way

Up at the Aquinnah town hall, a holiday artisans' sale begins at 10 a.m., while down in Edgartown, the Arts & Crafts Festival at the Edgartown School and the Plum Hill Elves Faire at the Federated Church start around the same time. Don't miss Handmade from the Heart at the Dr. Daniel Fisher House; the fundraiser benefits Hospice of Martha's Vineyard. Then grab a good spot on Main Street; the parade begins at 11 a.m.

After the parade, pick up a cup of hot apple cider or eggnog on the green (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.), then zip over to the Anchors for the Great Red Stocking Fund Chowder Contest (noon to 2 p.m.). In the afternoon, visit the Carnegie for a Meet the Maker event and tasting with Heidi Feldman of MV Sea Salt (1 p.m to 3 p.m.), and check out the Carnegie's new Island Art Show while you're there (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Don't miss the Teddy Bear Suite, located this year in Nevin Square and open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today. On your way over there, check out Chesca's front porch event and taste samples of their famous sauces.

Sunday, December 9 | Run, Run Rudolph

If you're up for an adventure this morning, join The Trustees for a tour of Cape Pogue lighthouse at 10 a.m. Or, if you'd rather stretch your legs for a good cause, take part in the Teddy Bear Trot 5K & Fun Run in Edgartown.

Take the kids for a hayride in Vineyard Haven; then catch a free screening of Polar Express at the Capawock at 1 p.m. Or head over to the Edgartown Cinema for a showing of Disney's The Nutcracker in Four Realms in 3D at 3:15 p.m.

In West Tisbury, Santa arrives at the fire department at 1 p.m. And the West Tisbury Congregational Church's Christmas Concert begins at 4 p.m.

If you didn't pop over to Chappaquiddick this morning, you might want to take the ferry over tonight to see Mytoi illuminated for the holidays. The event at the Japanese gardens begins at 5 p.m.

At this point, every Who in Whoville is ready for some of those mocha eggnog breakfast buns at the ArtCliff Diner. Move over, Mr. Grinch. We need a break from the shopping and ugly sweater parties.

Actually, we'd like a little more sunlight, too. But that's coming; tomorrow is the longest day of the year, and then we're on our way back into the light.

In the meantime, we'll light the candles, turn on the Christmas lights, and gather round the fire. Our mission for the weekend: Be merry and bright.

Friday, December 21 | Short and Sweet

To celebrate the solstice, we're going on a solstice stroll at Long Point Wildlife Refuge at 4:30 p.m. We'll follow the luminaries along the path, and wind up at the visitors' center for s'mores around the fire pit.

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is also having a festive solstice event this evening. The Winter Solstice Hygge Potluck is a BYOB (bring your own blanket) event. There will be a sunset hike at 3:45 p.m., followed by a community potluck around the fire.

If the weather winds up putting a damper on these fun outdoor events, we've got plan B in mind: the movies. Mary Poppins Returns, starring Emily Blunt, plays at the Capawock at 7 p.m. While Mary Poppins is set in 1930s London, The Favourite, starring Emma Stone and playing at the film center at 7:30 p.m., takes us back to England in the early 18th century.

Saturday, December 22 | A Caroling We Go

You can finish up your holiday shopping this morning in Vineyard Haven. The Holiday Gift Shop is still open and all the Main Street retailers are still well stocked.

This afternoon you can meet your friends at the Oak Bluffs Library at 4 p.m. and head out to go caroling in the community. Also in Oak Bluffs, folks from all over the Island will gather in Washington Park at 5 p.m. for a solstice vigil to stand against hate and violence of all kinds.

At 8 p.m. tonight, Vineyard vocalists accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra will perform Handel's The Messiah at the Old Whaling Church. Sponsored by Grace Church, the event will benefit the Island Food Pantry.

Sunday, December 23 | Sugar Plum Fairies

You'll want to grab the kids and head to the MV Film Center today around noon to get a good seat for The Nutcracker. The film center will show the live broadcast of The Bolshoi Ballet performing Tchaikovsky's famous work at 12:55 p.m. By the way, Mary Poppins Returns has three showings at Edgartown Cinema today. The Town of Aquinnah also has its holiday party tonight.

Saturday, December 24 | Christmas Eve

Check here for a list of Christmas Eve services and other community gatherings today.

Photo top right by Regina Stanley.