Experience the Magic of Grand Illumination and Holiday Festivities in Colonial Williamsburg
WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (Nov. 19, 2024) – The holiday season is just around the corner, and one of Williamsburg’s most cherished traditions, the Grand Illumination, is set to light up Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area once again! Mark your calendars for three consecutive Saturdays this December—December 7, 14, and 21—from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m., for a festive celebration that’s free and open to the public.
Grand Illumination promises an enchanting evening filled with seasonal music, the dramatic lighting of the cressets, and a spirited procession led by the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums. Each evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display over the Governor’s Palace and the Capitol, sponsored by the City of Williamsburg. For details on parking, transportation, and other frequently asked questions, check out the Grand Illumination FAQs.
But that’s not all! Here are additional free and open-to-the-public holiday events you won’t want to miss:
• Lighting of the Cressets (Nov. 21-23, 29-30, and Dec. 27-28, 6-9 p.m.)
Watch as Duke of Gloucester Street comes to life under the glow of lit cressets, while musicians and dancers fill the historic street with cheer.
• Merchants Square Tree Lighting (Nov. 30, 5 p.m.)
Celebrate Small Business Saturday with musical performances and a special appearance by Father Christmas.
• Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Dec. 5, 5-5:30 p.m.)
Join in the joy as the 40-foot community Christmas tree, adorned with over 7,500 lights, is illuminated. This annual event, co-sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg, features caroling, the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums, and a heartwarming reading of The Night Before Christmas.
• Celebration of the Yule Log (Dec. 6, 13, and 20, 6-7:30 p.m.)
Witness the traditional hauling of the Yule log from Capitol Circle to Market Square, where it will be added to a bonfire amidst holiday music, festivities, and the lighting of the cressets.
• Williamsburg Christmas Market (Nov. 29 – Dec. 23)
Stroll through the European-inspired Williamsburg Christmas Market on Court Street, featuring over 30 vendors selling artisan crafts, seasonal treats, and holiday gifts. Enjoy festive entertainment, warm beverages, and unique shopping experiences daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more details, visit the Williamsburg Christmas Market website.
Holiday celebrations continue throughout the season in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, Merchants Square, and the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. While historic sites are open daily to ticketed guests from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Art Museums will offer extended hours with special programming from 5-7 p.m. every Thursday in December, part of the Artful Winter Evenings series.
TICKETS & INFO
Save the Dates:
For more information on ticketed holiday programming and dining experiences, explore the Colonial Williamsburg Holiday Planner. To purchase tickets and find up-to-date event information, visit colonialwilliamsburg.org and follow Colonial Williamsburg on Facebook and Instagram.
At MrWilliamsburg.com, I’m always eager to share the latest events and happenings in Williamsburg. Whether you’re a local or considering a move to our vibrant community, I’m here to provide relevant information and insight. As a Williamsburg-based real estate expert with years of experience, I’m happy to assist you with any real estate needs or simply share what makes this area so special. Feel free to reach out, and be sure to explore more about Williamsburg on my website.
Best,
John Womeldorf