Dive deep into cinema history where it all began! Amity Homecoming Weekend returns to the Martha’s Vineyard Museum for a three-day celebration of Jaws, the Island, and the community that brought Spielberg’s blockbuster to life. Bringing together Islanders, scholars, cast members, and fans, this weekend revisits the iconic stories, people, and places that shaped Hollywood's ultimate summer thriller.
Celebrate cinema's most iconic summer thriller right where it all happened! The Jaws Reunion Festival brings together original actors, local extras, authors, and fans for a day-long celebration of the film that changed Martha's Vineyard forever.
Soak in the stunning museum views, grab some 1970s-style beach picnic food, and dive into a full day of Amity Island nostalgia:
Meet the Cast & Crew: Get autographs from original cast members and extras, including Jeffrey Kramer, Jeffrey Voorhees, and Jonathan and Stephen Searle.
Author Signings: Meet renowned Jaws and film authors Matt Taylor, Mike Smith, Christopher Shaw Myers, and Dennis Prince.
Amity Sing-Alongs: Join in on classic tunes with Jaws extras and musicians Michael Haydn (the original beach bonfire guitarist!), Molly Conole, and Mark Lovewell.
Jaws Trivia & Games: Test your ultimate Jaws knowledge for a chance to win prizes, and enjoy themed games throughout the day.
Memorabilia Swap & Shop: Browse locally made artisan products—including exclusive shark and Jaws items—and head to the dedicated memorabilia table to share and swap your favorite collectibles.
Whether you're a lifelong fan or a local extra with stories to share, don't miss this ultimate celebration of film history.
The Jaws Reunion Festival Sat, June 20, 2026 | Location: The Outdoor Lewis Lawn (Overlooking Vineyard Haven Harbor)
The centerpiece of the weekend brings together original actors, local extras, authors, and fans for an expansive community celebration. Take in stunning harbor views, grab some 1970s-inspired beach picnic fare for purchase, and enjoy an unforgettable day of fan culture:
Autograph Sessions: Meet and get autographs from original cast members and Island extras, including Jeffrey Kramer, Jeffrey Voorhees, Jonathan Searle, and Stephen Searle (with more guests to be announced).
Meet the Authors: Chat and connect with renowned Jaws and film authors Matt Taylor, Mike Smith, Christopher Shaw Myers, and Dennis Prince.
Amity Musical Sing-Alongs: Raise a voice with local musicians and film extras, including Michael Haydn (the original beach bonfire guitarist), Molly Conole, and Mark Lovewell.
Games & Memorabilia: Test your ultimate movie knowledge with Jaws trivia to win prizes, play themed games, and explore or swap collectibles at the dedicated memorabilia table.
Artisan Vendors: Shop local Island artisans offering unique products, including custom Jaws and shark-themed items.
Saturday Schedule of Events & Presentations | Sat, June 20, 2026
- 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Let’s Talk JAWS Live! — This Time It’s REALLY Personal
An exclusive, non-broadcast live episode of the hit podcast Let’s Talk JAWS with hosts Nate Jones and Michael Smith. Enjoy behind-the-scenes production stories, fan insights, and lively conversation.
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Robert Shaw: The Man My Family Knew
Presented by Christopher Shaw Myers, nephew of actor Robert Shaw. This session offers an intimate look behind the scenes of Hollywood’s golden era, exploring the complex life of the man who immortalized Captain Quint.
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | "The Shark Is Still Working" Documentary Screening
A special screening of the feature-length documentary exploring how Jaws evolved from a troubled Vineyard production into a cultural phenomenon, featuring rare footage and candid interviews with the cast and crew.
- 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Ultimate Jaws Fan Experience Sunset Cruise
(Brought to you by the Vineyard Gazette Media Group)
Climb aboard a wind-powered schooner for an evening cruise past the film's real on-the-water locations. Includes conversations with Island extras and historians, themed refreshments, and a commemorative swag bag.
Inside the Museum: "JAWS at 50: A Deeper Dive" Exhibition
Museum admission grants full access to the permanent and special indoor exhibitions tracking the movie's legacy on the Vineyard, featuring:
The Islanders Who Made Jaws: Oral histories, photographs, and original film props honoring the local fishermen, carpenters, and kids who helped create movie magic.
The Making of Amity: Explore how the quiet landscape of Martha's Vineyard transformed into a hotbed of cinematic suspense during the spring and summer of 1974.
Can't-Miss Photo Ops: Take photos with a scaled-down replica of the iconic “Amity Island Welcomes You” billboard, and see "Bruce the Shark"—a massive, to-scale replica keeping watch over the First Light Café in the Pavilion.
Admission & Ticketing Information
Separate Ticketing: Museum general admission is sold separately from specific Amity Homecoming program tickets.
Pre-Registration Recommended: Capacity is strictly limited for select indoor panels, presentations, and the evening sunset cruise. Purchasing tickets in advance online is highly recommended to secure your spot.