Grand Illumination Lights up the Holidays

Samuel Huff, staff writer

The holidays are a time for families to unify and for communities to come together. Some cities have traditions of pop-up ice-skating rinks, beautiful lights displays, and maybe even Santas on every corner. Here in Charlottesville, we have our own special tradition: The Grand Illumination, which takes place Dec. 6, 2019.

Each year, people from every corner of Charlottesville and different walks of life convene on the downtown mall to share company, fun, and a few laughs. The center of attention is always the enormous evergreen perched in City Hall Plaza. 

With food and beverages available for purchase, locals can spend the night listening to holiday choirs and local bands perform holiday hits, browsing holiday goods from local vendors, and watching a visual light masterpiece light up the roof of the Sprint Pavilion.

“It’s a great time for the community. People are able to really experience something magical and it’s impossible not to leave in the Christmas spirit,” said Dawn McDaniel, an event volunteer. “The kids would enjoy it anyway, but we’ve taken a few extra steps to make sure the whole family can have a great experience.”

Kids are sure to find something to make their night as much fun as mom and dad’s. From the holiday train in “Gum Drop Square,” to the inflatable obstacle course at the “Reindeer Games,” there is no shortage of fun to be had by all. 

With everything going on, it will be difficult to remember to make it to the main event. Around 7 p.m., everyone will gather around the Christmas tree and shortly after, begin the countdown to illuminate the over 2,000 LED lights draped around the tree.

The fun continues after the tree lighting with a free screening of The Polar Express at the Sprint Pavilion.

With all of these activities and more, the 2019 Grand Illumination is the Charlottesville event that will be on your mind until next Christmas. The activities begin at 4:30 p.m. and will contribute to a night full of love, fun, and surprises.

After all, you never know what jolly bearded saint may drop by.