Memorial Day on Vinalhaven and North Haven is the unofficial beginning of summer. Families from away come to the islands to open up their homes, or to enjoy a first-time long weekend visit. The ferry lines are longer, the waiting times at the local eateries are longer, and (according to locals) there are people everywhere! Island business owners love to see the holiday weekend because tourism is crucial to small business owners, and it's a short season. 

This past week marked the beginning of halibut season which--in addition to lobster, crab and scallops--is one of the only local fresh fish harvested here. Several boats brought fish in to sell locally. Pictured here is Kelsey's (our office administrator and sales agent) son Hunter, and his friend, Javin, showing off their catch.

Baseball has deep roots on Vinalhaven, dating back to the 1930s when the beloved "Chiefs" played on the island and throughout Maine. On Saturday our youngest players, the Vinalhaven Ravens Little League Team had their first home game of the season. This was a treat because most of their games are based in Rockland which involves leaving on the 7:00 a.m. ferry, playing 2 games, and returning to the island late in the day.  Weather was warm on Saturday and parents, grandparents and many friends turned out for a lively double header. The Ravens won both games and celebrated their 50th consecutive win!  (We believe the Ravens are the only Maine little league team to ever accomplish this.) The Ravens are the reigning champions from 2025. Kris' grandson, Davidson, and nephews, Logan and Henry, all play for the Ravens and love being a part of this well coached, team-centered club.  Also on Saturday, the Vinalhaven Islanders, our girls little league softball team in their 18th year, had two away games. They are also the reigning 2025 champions.

Yes, islanders know how to play ball!

When good weather allows (and it often is a bit unpredictable Memorial Day weekend)  we enjoy lobster bakes, cookouts, and catching up with friends from near and far. The warm weather brings much joy to the locals after such a long stretch of cold weather.

Memorial Day, however, is much more than a cookout, or a gathering. It is a time to remember those who sacrificed everything for our freedom. On Vinalhaven and North Haven, the fallen soldiers are honored each and every year. Both islands have a parade, which the local veterans, Legion members, Auxiliary members, and school kids  participate in. A very moving "Honor Roll" is read, and there is a gun salute along the water. "Taps" is played by local musicians while wreaths are dropped in the harbor. It is a moving tradition that is very important to generational islanders and those who attend. Pictured are the North Haven Community Veterans and Legion members, the North Haven Community School kids, and Davidson Realty's very own, Kathy Macy reading the Honor Roll.