JAWS 'Amity Homecoming' weekend event listings and details
Image via Martha’s Vineyard Museum (credits unknown)
Amity Homecoming Weekend is back at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum from June 19–21. Blending film history, behind-the-scenes insights, and community-driven events, the weekend invites Islanders, scholars, artists, and fans to reconnect with the people, places, and stories behind the iconic film Jaws.
In collaboration with the Vineyard Gazette Media Group, the Museum will also present the Jaws Reunion Festival on the Lewis Lawn, expanding the celebration into a larger, community-wide experience.
Saturday 20 June
Let’s Talk JAWS Live!… LIVE! – This Time It’s REALLY Personal
11:00am–12:30pm
An exclusive, non-broadcast live episode of Let’s Talk JAWS with hosts Nate Jones and Michael Smith, featuring behind-the-scenes stories, fan insights, and lively conversation.
Jeffrey Kramer: On Jaws, Life, and the Island
1:00–2:00pm
A candid conversation with Jeffrey Kramer (Jaws’ Deputy Hendricks) on filming on Martha’s Vineyard, memories of the cast and crew, and the lasting impact of the film.
The Shark Is Still Working: A JAWS Documentary
3:00–5:00pm
A behind-the-scenes documentary exploring how Jaws went from a troubled Vineyard production to one of the most iconic films of all time, featuring rare footage and candid interviews with cast and crew.
Sunday 21 June
Jaws Reunion Festival
11:00am – 3:00pm
The Jaws Reunion Festival brings together actors, Island extras, authors, and fans for a day-long celebration of the iconic film. The festival will feature autograph sessions, author talks, trivia, live music from Island performers connected to the film, themed games, artisan vendors, and 1970s-inspired beach picnic fare for purchase. Visitors can also explore Jaws memorabilia and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a festive outdoor setting overlooking Vineyard Haven Harbor. Featured participants include Jeffrey Kramer, Jeffrey Voorhees, Jonathan and Stephen Searle, with additional guests to be announced. Authors Matt Taylor, Mike Smith, Christopher Shaw Myers, and Dennis Prince will also be present.
Jaws: A FINatic’s Breakdown of the Film
10:30am–12:00pm
Historian and lifelong fan Bow Van Riper takes a closer look at Jaws, unpacking its origins, structure, and enduring power through film clips and behind-the-scenes insight. From its literary roots to its unforgettable characters and revolutionary suspense, this session explores why the film still grips audiences nearly fifty years on.
Robert Shaw: The Man My Family Knew
1:00pm–2:00pm
Christopher Shaw Meyers, nephew of actor Robert Shaw, shares stories offering a compelling look behind the scenes of Hollywood’s golden era, including the making of Jaws, while exploring the life of one of cinema’s most complex and captivating figures.
Amity Aftershocks: The Enduring World of Jaws
3:00pm–4:00pm
Join author Michael A. Smith for a lively conversation on his book FINATICS: 50 Years of Jaws, exploring the film’s lasting impact and the devoted fan community that has kept its legacy alive. From behind-the-scenes stories to cultural ripple effects, this talk celebrates the enduring world of Jaws on Martha’s Vineyard and beyond.
Ultimate Jaws Fan Experience Sunset Cruise
5:00pm-8:00pm
Climb aboard a wind-powered schooner for an evening exploring the real locations and stories behind Jaws. This immersive fan experience includes on-the-water views of filming sites, conversations with Island extras and historians, themed refreshments, and a commemorative swag bag.
Admission & Tickets
Museum admission is required and sold separately from individual program tickets. Admission includes access to all exhibitions, including Jaws-related artifacts and installations throughout the Museum. Please note that capacity is limited for select programs.