Colonial Williamsburg Grand Illumination

Colonial Williamsburg heralds the Christmas season with candles, fireworks and music during Grand Illumination.

The celebration begins at 4:45 p.m. on outdoor stages throughout the Historic Area. Colonial Williamsburg's Fifes and Drums provide 18th-century music as costumed performers present holiday entertainment found in Williamsburg two centuries ago.

At 5:45 p.m., the Fifes and Drums signal the beginning of the Grand Illumination. At 6:15 p.m., candles are lit in public buildings, shops and homes, and fireworks are launched at three Historic Area locations: the Governor’s Palace, Magazine and Capitol. After the fireworks, entertainment resumes on the outdoor stages, continuing until 7:30 p.m.

In the 18th century, illuminations were sometimes held to commemorate the birth of the reigning sovereign. Today, Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination celebrates the winter holidays. Musical performances on multiple stages and fireworks launched from three locations usher in the season with a bang.

Fireworks will be set off at three locations—the Palace, Magazine, and Capitol—at 6:15 p.m. Entertainment takes place on multiple stages in the Historic Area beginning at 4:45 p.m. and after the fireworks until 7:30 p.m. No ticket is required.