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The Legacy of Oak Bluffs

Since the early 20th century, Oak Bluffs has been a cherished haven for African American families, artists, and visionaries seeking connection, rest, and renewal along its storied coast.

 

At the heart of this community lies Inkwell Beach, located along Beach Road at the foot of Waban Park. Once labeled “The Inkwell” during the Jim Crow era, a name originally meant to segregate, the beach has been proudly reclaimed as a symbol of Black joy, excellence, and cultural pride. Today, it stands as one of the most beloved gathering spots on the island.

 

Throughout history, Oak Bluffs has attracted some of the most influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance, including poets, writers, and musicians who found inspiration in its shores. Each summer, especially in August, Oak Bluffs comes alive once more as visitors return for fellowship, celebration, and legacy events such as the renowned Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. 

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WHAT IS BLU VINEYARD?

Blu Vineyard, formerly known as Catching Royal Vibes, is an annual Blue & White experience held on the historic Inkwell Beach in Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, every third Monday in August.

 

What began over five years ago as a vibrant beach day created by members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in the Atlantic Region has blossomed into a multi-day signature experience now celebrated as Blu Vineyard.

 

This expanded weekend brings together members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated from across the country and around the world for fellowship, culture, and service. While the annual beach day remains a beloved cornerstone, Blu Vineyard has grown into an opportunity for deeper community engagement and economic impact across the island. Attendees intentionally support local businesses, uplift Black-owned enterprises, and participate in service initiatives that reflect our organizations’ commitment to making a meaningful difference wherever we gather.

 

The Blu Vineyard experience officially kicks off the Sunday prior to the beach day with a dynamic NPHC panel designed to foster connection, celebrate history, and amplify our shared values.

 

The week then culminates on Tuesday with a collaborative Bigger Better Business (a signature initiative of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.,) and Women Who Win (a signature initiative of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.,) experience, intentionally centered on economic impact and the empowerment of Black and Brown businesses. Together, these initiatives uplift entrepreneurs across industries, spotlight local and national Black and Brown-owned enterprises, and reinforce our collective commitment to driving economic opportunity, sustainability, and community wealth building.

 

Blu Vineyard is more than an event. It is a continuation of a proud legacy where the bonds of Zeta and Sigma are elevated through purpose, presence, and service, creating a cultural moment that is as impactful as it is unforgettable.

Schedule At a Glance

DIVINE 9 PANEL

Join representatives across the National Panhellenic Council (NPHC) for a panel discussion. More information coming soon!

Discover Martha's Vineyard Accommodations

Black-Owned Business Directory​

Founded in 2019 by India Rose, the Martha's Vineyard Black-Owned Business Directory was created to connect visitors with the island's vibrant community of Black-owned businesses.

 

Today, this digital platform makes it easy to find places to eat, shop, and stay, as well as explore art & culture, hair & beauty services, catering, event planning, and even charter boats.

 

For a complete list of local, Black-owned businesses on Martha's Vineyard, visit www.blackownedmv.com

Transportation

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Martha’s Vineyard is an island 7 miles off the coast of Massachusetts. You can only get to Martha’s Vineyard by ferry or by plane — there is no bridge!

For access to every ferry schedule from every port servicing Martha’s Vineyard, visit VineyardFerries.com or visit the individual ferry websites for schedules, fares, parking and driving directions.

TRAVEL BY PLANE

  • Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) is the airport on the island that offers commercial airline access. It is conveniently located in the center of Martha's Vineyard in West Tisbury, MA.

RENT A CAR ON MARTHA'S VINEYARD

  • Several car rental companies on the island can provide you with a car just steps off the ferry.

TRAVEL BY FERRY

From Rhode Island:

  • Martha’s Vineyard Fast Ferry - From Quonset Point, Rhode Island.

From New York or New Jersey:

  • SeaStreak - From New York and Northern New Jersey, as well as from New Bedford in Southeastern Massachusetts. The New York to Martha’s Vineyard service takes 5 hours with no connecting stops. 

RENT A BIKE ON MARTHA'S VINEYARD

  • Call All-Star Bike Rentals at 508-693-0062. Located just steps away from the ferries with free island-wide delivery.

   N E W  E N G L A N D • U S A   

Contact Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
New England Office

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United In Service To Our Communities.
CONNECTICUT  •  MASSACHUSETTS  •  RHODE ISLAND
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