In May of 1994 a group of Vineyarders traveled to New Hampshire to dismantle an old 1905 dairy barn and bring it back to the Island. In November of that year, the old dairy barn was resurrected by hundreds of Islanders, pitching together to build the West Tisbury Agricultural Hall that we know today.

And then the dancing began, with Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish providing the music.

Every year since, the community barnraising has been remembered with more dancing, fueled always by Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, at the annual Barn Raisers Ball. This year’s celebration takes place Saturday, Nov. 4 from 7 to 10 p.m.

The community celebration is BYOB and features a potluck dessert spread.

This year, a new event will also be introduced. The Barn Raisers Day takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, where kids get to participate in building miniature agricultural halls. There will be snacks and warm drinks as kids of all ages get to build with materials ranging from candy to cardboard, Lego’s and more. Material will be provided but everyone is also welcome to bring some of their own.

All the events are free.