For the first time in history, the Island Cup will be played at Fenway Park, with the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School football team heading to Boston this year to take on the Nantucket Whalers in the longstanding tradition.

The big game takes place Nov. 26, the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, and is one of four rivalry matches hosted by Fenway Park this fall. Kickoff is at 5 p.m.

“The Fenway Group is learning the history of the Island Cup. They liked the uniqueness and were very intrigued by it,” said athletic director Mark McCarthy.

This will be the Vineyard's first time playing at Fenway, but other teams have enjoyed the experience.

The inter-island tradition dates back over 70 years, beginning in 1953. It was officially coined the Island Cup in 1978.

“We started playing them in the 50’s and Jack Kelly, who was coaching on the Island, put together an all star team of the Island high school, which at that time were Edgartown, Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven,” Mr. McCarthy said.

Nantucket leads the overall rivalry 38-30-3. However, the Island Cup series favors Martha’s Vineyard, 22-21.

In last year’s matchup, the Vineyard won the Cup 24-21 with a fourth quarter game-winning field goal.

Head football coach Tony Mottola said he is excited for his team to experience the game on a larger stage.

“It’s a game that both programs won’t forget,” he said. “That will be a game that these kids will be able to tell their grandchildren and will be just different and special.”

In addition to the privilege of playing in a historic venue, the high schools will receive other benefits as well. Thanks to the generosity of the Fenway Group, 25 per cent of ticket proceeds will go back to the competing schools.

Coach Mottola said he is grateful for the opportunity.

“For the Fenway Group to give us the opportunity to play Nantucket there really makes it that much more special,” he said.

With the season opener over two weeks away, Coach Mottola is not ready to predict the outcome.

“There’s a lot of road between now and then.... We are just really, really excited to get the season going and can’t wait for that week.”

But even with the game over three months away, Coach Mottola is already grateful for the Thanksgiving treat.

“I think it’s a special opportunity not only for the players, but the coaches, parents, really the whole community, and both Islands,” Coach Mottola said. “I feel privileged to be a part of it.”