Rather than using a giant floodlight, using tiny spotlights gives you much better control over what the customer sees (and doesn’t see). The effect is fantastic.

Williamsburg Area Transit Authority is responsible for bus operations throughout Colonial Williamsburg's historic campus, including transportation to and from the Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center. Questions or comments about WATA's operating schedule can be sent to info@gowata.org, or submitted through the transit authority's customer service number at (757) 220-5493.

Using LED technology, the lights stay cool, use very little power and provide the perfect amount of light for your props and scenes.

Hook up to 50 lights together on one 12-volt transformer. Use one of our many splitters and extension cords to save on bulky power supplies.

Visitors should make alternate arrangements if public transportation is required during the temporary road closures. A walking path from the Historic Area to the Visitor Center is accessible on North England Street just east of the Governor's Palace.

We invite guests to join us as we illuminate the night sky above our beautiful colonial capital. In the 18th century, illuminations — the firing of guns and lighting of fireworks — celebrated major events such as the birthday of a reigning sovereign, military victories, or the arrival of a new colonial governor. Begin the special day by checking out the unique decorations throughout the Historic Area. Then, enjoy musical performances on multiple stages throughout our streets and fireworks displays from the Capitol and the Palace.

Can I reserve a specific audience area on Palace Green?No. All audience areas are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Where should I park?Parking in and around the downtown Williamsburg area will be in high demand. Paid parking lots in the area of Merchants Square will offer a flat $20 all-day parking rate each Saturday of Grand Illumination. This special event rate is in effect from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. with pre-payment available beginning at 8:00 a.m. We recommend parking at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center, offering a flat $10 all-day rate, and using the free WATA bus service to the Historic Area. For details on WATA bus service schedules and how to use the paid Passport parking app, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/visit/parking/.What time do the WATA buses run?Buses will run on a 15-minute schedule from 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

What time do the fireworks start? What time should I arrive?The fireworks begin at 7:00 p.m., but it’s best to arrive early. The official start of Grand Illumination holiday programs throughout the Historic Area is at 5 p.m.Will each week be the same Grand Illumination fireworks show?Yes. Each Saturday night, fireworks will be fired simultaneously from the Capitol and Palace.

Where is the closest restroom?In addition to regular restrooms listed on the map, there will be portable units installed throughout the Historic Area.

Where are the best places to watch the Grand Illumination fireworks shows?For the Palace fireworks, anywhere on Palace Green is perfect. For the Capitol show, the best viewing area is on Duke of Gloucester St east of Botetourt St.