A Glowing Legacy: Discover the Magic of Grand Illumination on Martha’s Vineyard
If you've ever looked into visiting Martha’s Vineyard, you've likely come across images of the island's iconic gingerbread cottages—charming, brightly colored Victorian homes that seem straight out of a storybook. These cottages, located in Oak Bluffs, are not only a symbol of the island's rich history but also play a starring role in one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most magical traditions: the Grand Illumination, also known as Illumination Night. This enchanting event has been captivating visitors for over 150 years and continues to be one of the most celebrated nights of the year on the island.
The gingerbread cottages are part of the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association (MVCMA) grounds, originally known as Wesleyan Grove. This area became a destination during the 19th century as part of the "camp meeting" movement, where Methodists gathered on Martha’s Vineyard for summer retreats focused on spiritual revival and renewal. In the early days, attendees set up tents in a common area, bringing along provisions and supplies for their stay.
As the camp meetings grew in popularity, so did the need for more permanent structures. What began as a gathering of nine tents in 1835 evolved into a thriving community, with Wesleyan Grove hosting 12,000 people by the late 1860s. As people started to stay for longer periods, the iconic “Martha’s Vineyard” cottage emerged between 1859 and 1864, marking the birth of the now-famous gingerbread cottages. By 1880, the number of cottages had grown to about 500, and today, 318 of these whimsical homes still stand.
The first Illumination Night took place in 1869 and was initially called Governor’s Day, in honor of the Massachusetts Governor who visited the island to witness the spectacle. In a bid to impress the Governor, residents adorned their cottages with paper lanterns and other forms of illumination, transforming the area into a glowing wonderland. This tradition has continued ever since, evolving into the Grand Illumination we know today.
Each year, as dusk falls on Illumination Night, thousands of colorful paper lanterns are lit simultaneously, casting a magical glow over the cottages and creating an unforgettable sight for all who attend. The event begins with a community sing-along inside the Tabernacle, an open-air, octagonal structure at the heart of the MVCMA. As the final notes of the songs fade, the lanterns are illuminated, and the night truly comes alive.
Visitors are invited to stroll through the maze of cottages, each uniquely decorated and glowing with the soft light of the lanterns. It's a night that transports you back in time, allowing you to experience the charm and history of Martha’s Vineyard in a truly special way. The Grand Illumination is not just a celebration of the island’s past, but also a testament to the strong sense of community that continues to thrive here.
Attending Illumination Night is a must for anyone visiting Martha’s Vineyard in August. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this magical event offers a unique glimpse into the island’s rich history and enduring traditions. Best of all, it’s free and open to the public, with donations welcomed to support the MVCMA. So, mark your calendar, plan your trip, and experience the timeless magic of the Grand Illumination on Martha’s Vineyard—a night you’ll never forget.
For more information on the history of the event, be sure to visit the MVCMA website.
