Colonial Williamsburg's Grand Illumination fireworks
The Grand Illumination is Colonial Williamsburg's premier holiday event that recreates a 300-year-old tradition of celebrating special occasions with gunfire and fireworks. During the 18th century, a "grand illumination" meant lighting candles in windows to signify joy and victory.
Event Highlights:
- Candlelit Windows: Thousands of real candles glow in the windows of historic brick buildings.
- Fife and Drum Music: Costumed 18th-century musicians march through the streets playing traditional holiday carols.
- Dual Fireworks: Pyrotechnics fire simultaneously above the Capitol and Governor’s Palace to close out the evening.
****We will update exactly where we'll be meeting closer to the event date!****
Date – Time
December 5, 2026
– 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Williamsburg Palace Green
Palace Green St
Williamsburg, VA 23185 US
Additional Information
The Grand Illumination is Colonial Williamsburg's premier holiday event that recreates a 300-year-old tradition of celebrating special occasions with gunfire and fireworks. During the 18th century, a "grand illumination" meant lighting candles in windows to signify joy and victory.
Event Highlights:
- Candlelit Windows: Thousands of real candles glow in the windows of historic brick buildings.
- Fife and Drum Music: Costumed 18th-century musicians march through the streets playing traditional holiday carols.
- Dual Fireworks: Pyrotechnics fire simultaneously above the Capitol and Governor’s Palace to close out the evening.
****We will update exactly where we'll be meeting closer to the event date!****