The December 14 performance is SOLD OUT. Thank you for you interest.
Join actors in period costume as they take you back to the Christmas of 1782. This lively event celebrates the return of Arthur Middleton from Philadelphia, the end of the Revolutionary War in the South and the departure from Charleston of the British troops. Guests will feast on early American cuisine and specialty cocktails from the colonial period in the Pavilion following the presentation. Torchlit gardens, warm fires, dramatic scenes and presentations, and a traditional family-style meal will make Grand Illumination a memorable part of your holiday season.
Menu includes slow-roasted prime rib and smoked pork tenderloin carving stations, turkey pot pie, mushroom toast, pepper pot soup, garden vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, fresh garden salad, whipped potatoes and assorted desserts. Includes coffee, tea and water. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and juice are available for purchase at the cash bar. Menu items subject to change.
Be sure to read the Frequently Asked Questions section below.
$69/adults
$25/children ages 6-13
No charge for ages 5 and under.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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 family-style dinner prepared by the Middleton Place Restaurant. We suggest setting aside about two hours total for the event. The walking route through the gardens, house and to the dinner is approximately ½ mile.
How do the time blocks work?
Guests will be grouped in tours of 12 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). The Garden and Museum shops will be open and warm fires will be available for guests awaiting their tours.
Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your selected time block.
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. Keep in mind that the first half of the event is outside in the Gardens.
Is this event handicapped accessible?
This special event takes place 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. The House Museum has very limited handicapped accessibility on the first floor only.
All sales are final and the event will take place rain or shine.
Extend your visit with a stay at The Inn at Middleton Place.
Guests of special events at Middleton Place receive a 10% discount on their room rate.
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).