October 21, 2025

Grand Illumination Celebrates 90 Years of Tradition

News Summary

The Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg marks its 90th anniversary with three weekends of festive events in December. This annual celebration features fireworks, 18th-century entertainment, a Yule Log procession, and musical performances, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere. Visitors will enjoy various activities throughout the historic area, blending colonial traditions with modern celebrations. Originally starting as a single-day event, it has grown into a beloved multi-week festival that captivates the community and honors the spirit of the season.

Williamsburg

The Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg is a cherished holiday tradition that is set to celebrate its 90th anniversary this year with festive events extended over three weekends: December 6, 13, and 20 in 2025. This annual event features an array of activities, including vibrant fireworks displays each Saturday night of the festivities.

Each weekend evening will begin at 6 pm, with 18th-century entertainments adorning Duke of Gloucester Street. This colorful celebration includes the ceremonial lighting of cressets and a lively procession led by the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums. As the day ends, the celebration culminates in a spectacular fireworks demonstration over the historic Governor’s Palace at 7 pm, drawing large crowds eager to witness the festive display.

In addition to the fireworks, attendees can look forward to the traditional Yule Log procession which begins at the Capitol and ends at the Magazine. Here, participants make a wish and toss greenery into a bonfire, adding a personal touch to the holiday season. The historic area will be adorned with a stunning array of decorations, blending the charm of colonial traditions with modern holiday festivities.

The Grand Illumination not only features fireworks but also offers musical performances across various stages throughout the streets of Colonial Williamsburg. Visitors can enjoy special programming at the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, which includes both familiar favorites and new entertainment offerings, enhancing the overall experience of this holiday celebration.

Initially starting as a single-day event in 1935, the Grand Illumination has evolved significantly over the years. What began as a lighting ceremony of electric candles in windows to commemorate the holiday season transformed into a multi-week celebration known for inspiring similar traditions across the United States. The term “Grand Illumination” was officially adopted in 1959, marking a new era for this beloved event.

The event’s popularity has grown tremendously, prompting the expansion of festivities that now extend nearly the entire month of December and often into the first week of the new year. Visitors can immerse themselves in candlelit tours and various holiday-themed events that reflect colonial holiday traditions, enriching their understanding and appreciation of history during the most festive time of the year.

The Fife and Drum Corps performance serves as the kickoff to the Grand Illumination festivities, inviting guests of all ages to participate in this joyous seasonal celebration. The fireworks displays featured during the event are not only visually stunning but are also choreographed and centrally controlled by computer technology, ensuring a synchronized experience for all attendees.

To accommodate the large crowds enjoying the festivities, food vendors will be available on Nicolson Street, providing a variety of dining options for guests. Colonial Williamsburg’s extensive array of activities and offerings ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy during this magical holiday season.

As the Grand Illumination marks 90 years of holiday traditions, it continues to bring together the community and visitors alike, celebrating the spirit of the season with a unique blend of historical charm, vibrant entertainment, and festive cheer. The enduring popularity of this event reflects the strong sense of community and shared enjoyment found within the heart of Williamsburg.

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Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER

The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.

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STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER

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