Two Iconic Oak Bluffs Home Tours Offer a Rare Look Inside Vineyard Living

The Cottagers and the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association Invite the Public to

Explore the Charm, History, and Distinctive Character of Oak Bluff􀆯s Homes

OAK BLUFFS, MA — This July, two beloved Oak Blu􀆯s traditions will open doors to some of

the Vineyard’s most distinctive homes, o􀆯ering residents and visitors a unique opportunity

to experience the many ways people live, gather, and create community on Martha’s

Vineyard through two self-guided home tours.

The annual tours presented by The Cottagers, Inc. and the Martha’s Vineyard Camp

Meeting Association (MVCMA) showcase two very di􀆯erent architectural traditions while

celebrating the enduring character of Oak Bluff􀆯s.

The season begins with the 26th Annual Gingerbread Cottage Tour on Thursday, July 9,

2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., presented by the MVCMA. The tour go􀆯ers the only opportunity

each year to step inside several privately owned cottages in the historic Campground,

renowned for their colorful Victorian architecture and whimsical detailing. Tickets are $50.

The following week, The Cottagers, Inc. will present its 39th Annual House Tour on

Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The tour will feature six carefully selected

homes as well as the newly restored and reopened Cottagers’ Corner, the organization’s

historic headquarters in downtown Oak Blu􀆯ffs.

Together, the two tours off􀆯er a fascinating contrast between the Vineyard’s historic roots

and its evolving architectural landscape. From the storybook cottages of the Campground

to contemporary residences and thoughtfully restored properties, attendees will

experience a variety of styles, settings, and approaches to Island living at their own pace.

“For nearly four decades, The Cottagers’ House Tour has off􀆯ered a unique opportunity to

experience the character, creativity, and diversity of Vineyard homes while supporting our

mission of service to the Island community,” said Patricia R. Bush, president of The

Cottagers, Inc. “This year is especially meaningful as visitors will also have the opportunity

to tour the newly restored Cottagers’ Corner, our historic headquarters and a symbol of our

commitment to preserving the past while serving present and future generations.”

“The Gingerbread Cottage Tour provides a rare chance to step inside some of the

Campground’s most beloved cottages and experience the history, craftsmanship, and

charm that make this National Historic Landmark so special,” said Kim Rielly, general

manager of the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association. “Together, these two tours

celebrate the rich architectural heritage of Oak Blu􀆯s and invite visitors to discover the

many stories that make this community unique.”

For architecture enthusiasts, design lovers, history bu􀆯s, and anyone curious about life on

Martha’s Vineyard, the tours provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Island

from the inside out.

Tour Information

26th Annual Gingerbread Cottage Tour

Thursday, July 9, 2026

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Presented by the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association

80 Trinity Park, Oak Blu􀆯s

Tickets: $50 advance purchase | $60 day of event

39th Annual House Tour

Thursday, July 16, 2026

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Rain or Shine)

Presented by The Cottagers, Inc.

57 Pequot Avenue, Oak Blu􀆯s

Tickets: $70 advance purchase | $85 day of event

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About The Cottagers, Inc.

Founded in 1956, The Cottagers, Inc. is a nonprofit organization of African American female

homeowners dedicated to supporting charitable, educational, cultural, and community

service initiatives that enhance the quality of life on Martha’s Vineyard. Celebrating its 70th

anniversary in 2026, the organization continues a proud tradition of service and giving while

preserving the legacy of generations of women who have helped shape the Island

community.

About the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association

The Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association preserves and stewards the historic

Campground in Oak Blu􀆯s, one of the nation’s most distinctive collections of Victorian

cottages. Through educational programs, preservation e􀆯orts, and community events, the

MVCMA works to protect and celebrate this unique National Historic Landmark.