Grand Illumination
for this year will be celebrated on August 18, 2021.
Due to COVID related concerns, this year will be a modified/scaled-back celebration. There will be no program or lighting of the first lantern in the Tabernacle this year.
Also due to COVID, there may be fewer cottages decorated this year but we expect that many will be lit.
Lanterns will be lit throughout the MVCMA at 8:00pm.
Visitors are welcome, but anyone walking through the MVCMA
on this evening is required to wear a mask.
Please enjoy your evening and stay safe!
We hope you enjoy this video of
Memories of Grand Illumination Celebrations of the past!
The crown jewel of the Campground season is Grand Illumination Night! Illumination started in Oak Bluffs on Aug. 14, 1869, initially intended as a way of marking the visit of the Governor of Massachusetts. Thousands of Island residents and visitors enjoy Grand Illumination each summer.
The evening starts in the Tabernacle, and seats fill well in advance. The program also includes Community Sing and music by the Vineyard Haven Band, as well as the ceremonial lighting of the first lantern.
The event is supported with a free will offering. We are grateful for the generosity of everyone who visits, participates, and donates what they can to make this magical evening possible.
The evening starts in the Tabernacle, and seats fill well in advance. The program also includes Community Sing and music by the Vineyard Haven Band, as well as the ceremonial lighting of the first lantern.
The event is supported with a free will offering. We are grateful for the generosity of everyone who visits, participates, and donates what they can to make this magical evening possible.
