Grand Illumination Night has been a summer staple on Martha's Vineyard since 1869, when the first event was held in honor of the visiting governor of Massachsuetts. After sundown on the third Wednesday in August, lanterns of all kinds cast a magical glow over the charming gingerbread cottages at the Martha's Vineyard Camp Ground.

In 2021, Illumination Night will be held on  Wednesday, Aug. 18. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Tabernacle with an introduction and the Vineyard Haven Band. Piano duets and a community sing follow, featuring favorites such as the Star Spangled Banner and In the Gold Old Summer Time.

At 8:30 p.m. house lights will go out and the first lantern will be lit by the honorary lamp lighter. At 8:45 p.m. the band concert begins as the crowd is invited to stroll through the enchanted scene.

Between 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. church chimes announce the end of festivities.

The Grand Illumination is a free-will offering event, with guests encouraged to donate what they can. The camp meeting association is a nonprofit organization. For more information visit mvcma.org.