If you’ve been wondering where all of your favorite Black celebrities have been all summer, look no further than Martha’s Vineyard, a picturesque island just seven miles off the coast of Massachusetts. Although it’s only 96 square miles, there are plenty of restaurants, shopping and activities, particularly in Oak Bluffs, a town on the island that has a rich African American history that makes it a destination for Black people every summer. It even inspired a new clothing collection from Ralph Lauren.
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From the star-packed panel discussions to fabulous parties to quiet sunsets with family, we’re checking out all of the ways Black people are enjoying Martha’s Vineyard this summer.
A Beautiful View
One of the best things about the Vineyard is the beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean, providing the perfect backdrop for summer vacation photos and videos.
“If Black joy was a place…it would be MV,” @samanthacassandra_ captioned her post on TikTok.
Gingerbread Houses
Besides the beautiful ocean views, Oak Bluffs has plenty of interesting architecture, like these colorful gingerbread cottages that are over 150 years old. TikTok user Abraxas gives us a walking tour.
Mara Brock Akil
Writer-producer Mara Brock Akil speaks to the audience at the When We All Vote Reception during the African American Film Festival.
Parties With Plenty of Star Power
Dr. Jasper Brewster and singer Ronnie DeVoe of BBD and New Edition.
Michelle Obama
The former First Lady sat down for an episode of her “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson” podcast during the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. They were joined by actress Natasha Rothwell, known for her roles in “Insecure” and “The White Lotus,” where they discussed the actress’ career and how Obama enjoys being back on the Vineyard, calling it a “special place for us” where they “enjoy being us.”
Issa Rae
Issa Rae looks gorgeous in green spotted out at a screening of HBO Max’s “Seen & Heard Part 2” during the African American Film Festival.
Time to Dance
One thing about Black people, we can handle our business and make time to enjoy ourselves. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself in the middle of an electric slide at a networking event!
“Networking on Martha’s Vineyard looks like Black Joy,” TikTok user @eringoldston captioned her post.
Rev. Al Sharpton and Rep. Jasmine Crockett
MSNBC host Rev. Al Sharpton and Rep. Jasmine Crockett arrive at The Color of Conversation panel discussion during the African American Film Festival.
Jennifer Hudson
Singer-actress-talk show host Jennifer Hudson dropped a beautiful photo dump on X, which included gorgeous pics from her time in Martha’s Vineyard.
Rep. Ayana Pressley
Rep. Ayanna Pressley strikes a pose at The Color of Conversation event.
Bishop T.D. Jakes and Rev. Al Sharpton
Bishop T.D. Jakes and Rev. Al Sharpton greet each other before an event on the island.
You Never Know Who You’ll Run Into
Spend any amount of time on Martha’s Vineyard and you’re sure to spot a celebrity. Malik Yoba posed for a photo with Dr. Jasper Brewster during his time on the island.
Staying Fit
Folks come to Martha’s Vineyard for vacation, but many who visit also make time to stay active. From water aerobics in the ocean to yoga on the beach, TikToker @bossingmotherhood showed off some of the ways she gets in a workout in her happy place.
Bethann Hardison
Model and activist Bethann Hardison arrives at The Color of Conversation.
Tracee Ellis Ross
Actress Tracee Ellis Ross at a screening her of popular new series, “Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross” at the African American Film Festival.
Sharing a Sunset
TikToker @camiladechalus posted a beautiful clip of her enjoying a sunset with her young son during his first trip to the Vineyard.
“I’m realizing it’s these small moments that I am beginning to really enjoy the most,” she captioned her post.
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