Tradition & History

A Place Rooted in History

Asbury Grove had its own train and trolley stations, providing connections from Boston.

Step through the gates of Asbury Grove and you’ll feel it—the quiet echo of generations gathering to worship, rest, and renew their faith. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Grove holds more than 165 years of stories woven into its tree-lined avenues and timeless traditions.

Founded in 1859 as a seasonal Camp Meeting ground for Methodist congregations from Boston and surrounding towns, Asbury Grove became a place where people could find spiritual refreshment closer to home than the distant camps at Martha’s Vineyard or Eastham. Today, people of all denominations continue to find here what the early founders sought: a place of worship, fellowship, and community rooted in the love of Christ.

The Asbury Grove Historical Society (AGHS) continues to record and share the Grove’s history while supporting preservation and restoration projects for future generations.

The Heart of Our Traditions

Every summer, Asbury Grove comes alive with opportunities to worship, gather, and celebrate. From weekly Vesper Services to the excitement of the Fourth of July parade and the peaceful glow of Illumination Night, these traditions bring neighbors, families, and visitors together year after year.

Signature Traditions

July 4 Festivities

The Summer Season Begins
The summer season traditionally begins on Memorial Day weekend with volunteers preparing the pool, bathhouses, and communal spaces. On Saturday evening, a covered dish supper is held at 6:00 p.m. in the dining hall.

Sunday Vesper Services
Held weekly in the Vespers Circle starting at 4:00 p.m. Guest preachers are welcomed each Sunday during July and August, while resident pastors and lay preachers lead services in June.
Services Dates & Speakers are listed on our Ministries Page.


Fourth of July Parade & Cookout
The Fourth of July is a highlight of the season, featuring a colorful parade of costumed children and adults, games on the ball field, an egg toss, and a community cookout. It’s a day of fun, laughter, and reconnecting with old friends.


Youth Chapel Groups
Our youth programs, for ages 8–12 and 12–16, meet during the week for faith-based activities, games, and fellowship. A highlight of the season is the Saturday Night Suppers prepared and served by the youth as their main fundraiser, helping them create a special end-of-season experience.

Illumination Night
Held the Saturday evening before Camp Meeting Week, residents light their cottages with lanterns, candles, or string lights, continuing a tradition that began before electricity. The community gathers in the center to sing hymns, pray, and prepare for the upcoming week of worship.

Camp Meeting Week
The heart of Asbury Grove’s history, Camp Meeting Week is held each August with nightly worship services, morning Bible studies, and dinners served in the dining hall. It’s a time to pause, seek God, and experience the fellowship that has defined the Grove for over a century.

2025 Camp Meeting Schedule
Camp Meeting FB Event
Camp Dinner Menu

More Traditions & Events

Other beloved activities include Monday Night Road Races, Bible studies, Hymn Sings, the annual Lobster Bake, and the Labor Day Cookout. For times and details, see our 2025 Events Calendar.