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| Source: Wikimedia Commons |
Each year on the third Wednesday in August the gingerbread cottages I wrote about in my "G" post are lit with Chinese and Japanese lanterns for the Grand Illumination Night.
The Illumination Night has been held since the 1800s and was originally conceived as a promotional tool to lure potential buyers to properties in the area. As the years went on the community rallied around the event as it grew larger and more festive.
In the present day, the Grand Illumination is one of the biggest events of the summer and includes a band concert and a community sing-along. At 9:00 the streetlights go out and the paper lanterns come on so spectators can walk through the narrow streets and enjoy the cottages.
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| Source: Wikimedia Commons |
According to my mom I've been to an Illumination Night but I can't say I remember it. Someday I hope to go again, although I'd skip the sing-along. Anyone who has ever heard me sing would know why. :D
My A-Z of Martha's Vineyard theme is inspired by my book, The Ghosts of Aquinnah, which is set on the island. Click here for all the info on the book.
