Here's All the Ways to Celebrate Jaws' 50th Anniversary on Martha's Vineyard

Jaws fans will love visiting Menemsha Channel to relive the shark attack on the Orca. Photo by User-Elkman CC BY-SA 3.0
Jaws fans will love visiting Menemsha Channel to relive the shark attack on the Orca. Photo by User-Elkman CC BY-SA 3.0
4/17/25 - By Vanessa Leigh

Summer 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Jaws—and Martha’s Vineyard is pulling out all the stops to celebrate. Families heading to the Vineyard this summer can find a sea of themed events, film screenings, and fin-tastic fun that pays tribute to the iconic thriller filmed right on the Vineyard’s shores.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or introducing your kids to Jaws for the first time (with age-appropriate filters, of course!), this is a once-in-a-generation chance to dive into movie history. It's the ultimate summer vacation add-on, from walking tours of filming locations to special exhibits and beachside festivities.

Planning a trip? Be sure to check out our top things to do on Martha’s Vineyard for family-friendly recommendations and explore our full Guide to Visiting Cape Cod and the Islands for more nearby adventures. Happy shark-spotting!

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Top Jaws 50th Anniversary Events for Families on Martha's Vineyard

1. Jaws at 50: A Deeper Dive – Vineyard Haven

Saturday, May 24-Sunday, September 7, 2025
The Martha’s Vineyard Museum presents this special exhibition featuring rare photographs, original props, and oral histories from locals involved in the film's production.

2. Jaws Screening & After-Party – Oak Bluffs

Friday, June 20, 2025
Enjoy a FREE screening of the new documentary Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story at the Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center. Following the screening, enjoy an after-party at The Harbor View Hotel, which includes fun photo-ops, exclusive swag, themed cocktails for the adults, plus live entertainment. Note: Tickets are required for the after-party (and pricey!) and can be booked online.​

Amity Island Tours Jaws Turns 50
Learn about the making of Jaws with visits to scenes from the movie courtesy of The Edgartown Tour Company. Photo courtesy of the company

3. Amity Island Tours – Edgartown

Thursday, May 15-Wednesday, October 8, 2025
The Edgartown Tour Company leads walking tours of iconic filming locations around the island, including the town center and ferry launch, putting visitors right in the heart of some of the film's iconic shots. It guarantees laughs and learning for audiences of all ages.

4. Barks & Sharks Dog Costume Meetup – Edgartown

Sunday, June 29, 2025
Dress up your furry friends in Jaws-inspired costumes for a fun and adorable gathering that's perfect for the whole family.

5. Jaws at the Drive-In – Oak Bluffs

Select dates from June-August 2025
Experience the thrill of Jaws under the stars with outdoor screenings scheduled throughout the summer, offering a unique way to relive the classic.​ The drive-in movie theater at the YMCA on Martha's Vineyard is a favorite place to catch the thriller during the summer. The drive-in is open from the end of June to the end of August, so be sure to check out when Jaws is playing.

MV Salads Jaws Special Salad Jaws Turns 50
MV Salads is getting in on the fun with a Jaws Special Salad - think shark teeth and 'bloody' dressing! Photo courtesy of the shop

6. MV Salads – Oak Bluffs

Local eateries, like MV Salads, are offering Jaws-inspired menus, providing a yummy way to celebrate the film's 50th anniversary. Don't be alarmed by the blood-red salad dressing...it's just beets!

7. The Shark is Broken – Oak Bluffs

Select dates from Saturday, July 5-Sunday, July 20, 2025
Catch performances of this acclaimed play that dives into the behind-the-scenes drama during the making of Jaws. This show offers insight and entertainment for families. It runs roughly 95 minutes, and is most suitable to teens and adults.

8. Jaws Escape Room Experience – Edgartown

Select dates through Saturday, August 30, 2025
Test your ability to escape from (a replica of) the Orca in a Jaws-themed escape room courtesy of Pirate's Puzzle Escape Room. This escape room adventure is a thrilling activity that challenges families to work together to solve puzzles and escape the room, or in this case: the shark. Each experience lasts 45 minutes and includes viewing some clips from the film. A maximum of eight people can solve the puzzle at a time.

9. Commemorative Magazine Release

Released in mid-May 2025
The Vineyard Gazette is releasing a special edition magazine featuring rare photos, firsthand accounts, and a detailed map of filming locations. This is a perfect gift for the movie lovers in the family. Order yours today for $17.95.

Plan Your Summer 2025 Visit to Martha's Vineyard

With events running from May through September, there are tons of opportunities to join the Jaws festivities. Book tours, shows, and travel in advance to secure your spot and enjoy a bit of history by the sea.

Places featured in this article:

About the Author

Vanessa Leigh
Vanessa Leigh is a busy mom of three (including twins!), a Midwesterner turned East Coaster, and a chocolate enthusiast. She’s a copywriter specializing in Early Childhood and Motherhood, plus the creative force behind her Etsy shop. When she’s not writing or designing, you can find her indulging in dark chocolate peanut butter cookies at Levain Bakery. Connect with Vanessa at www.vanessaleighagency.com or browse her creations at MamaMagicByVanessa.etsy.com. She loves chatting with fellow parents—don’t hesitate to reach out!