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Grand Illumination and Dinner
A holiday tradition
Join us for Christmas of 1782 at Middleton Place. As you make your way through the torch-lit gardens, you’ll meet historical reenactors portraying free and enslaved men and women of Middleton Place as they experience the end of the Revolutionary War, the departure of the British from Charleston, and Arthur Middleton’s return to his family.
After the theatrical presentation, enjoy a feast in the Pavilion. The chef and attendant served a buffet featuring favorite Lowcountry dishes that will make Grand Illumination a memorable part of your holiday season. This event traditionally sells out. Purchase your tickets early!
Adult $99
Child (6-13) $35
Child (5 and under) Free
GRAND ILLUMINATION 2023 DINNER MENU
Prime rib carving station, Smoked turkey with gravy, Seasonal fish with lemon-caper butter, Dinner rolls, She crab soup, Fall salad with grains and fruits, Macaroni and cheese, Braised collards
Spiced cauliflower and carrots, Mashed potatoes, Seasonal cobbler, and Seasonal cheesecake
Includes coffee, tea and water. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and juice are available for purchase at the cash bar. Menu items are subject to change.
Be sure to read the Frequently Asked Questions section below.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this event handicapped accessible?
This special event takes place mainly outdoors and at night. The Garden paths on this historic property can be uneven, as they are made of dirt and gravel and sometimes include brick steps; therefore, they are not easily maneuverable by wheelchair. Due to safety concerns, electric/motorized wheelchairs are not permitted. The House Museum has very limited handicapped accessibility on the first floor only. The walking route through the Gardens is approximately ½ mile.
How long is the event?The Grand Illumination is divided into two parts. The first part is a theatrical production that takes place while walking from scene to scene through the Gardens and House Museum and lasts for about 45-50 minutes.
Guests then walk to the Pavilion for a special chef and attendant-served buffet dinner prepared by the Middleton Place Restaurant. We suggest setting aside about two hours total for the event.
How do the time blocks work?
Guests will be grouped in tours of 10 in the order of arrival within each time block. Tours depart continuously throughout the event. (i.g. guests selecting the 6:00 pm tour will depart on their tour in order of arrival/check-in between 6:00 and 6:30).
Warm fires will be available for guests awaiting their tours. Beer, wine, and warm and cold beverages will be available for purchase in the Garden Market.
What should I wear?Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Clothing and outerwear suitable to the weather should be worn, and dressing in layers is suggested. Remember that the first half of the event is outside in the Gardens.
Please print and bring a copy of your ticket email for admittance to the event.Alternatively, you may present your ticket email on a mobile device (tablet or cell phone).
For questions, email [email protected]