Last Chance to See CW’s Governor’s Palace Light Up Like Never Before

WILLIAMSBURG-A crowd of more than 100 people lined up on the evening of April 28 outside the Governor’s Palace for a chance to experience Colonial Williamsburg’s newest outdoor program, “CW Lights: A Palace Garden Glow Event.”

The daily evening program, which began April 15 and offers limited timed ticket entry every half hour, was introduced in part to invite visitors to enjoy Colonial Williamsburg’s outdoor attractions during the pandemic. “CW Lights” will run through Sunday, May 2.

Robert Currie, Director of Entertainment, Evening Programs and Signature Events for Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, modeled “CW Lights” after night light illuminations that are popular in Europe, especially at cathedrals.

“We wanted to put our own spin on it,” Currie said. “We wanted to bring the gardens to life at night when people don’t typically visit. This is something that has never been done before in Colonial Williamsburg. It’s a completely different experience than during the daytime.”

During the walking program, guests can stroll throughout the Governor’s Palace gardens while admiring the spring blooms as lights of various hues illuminate different sections of the property. Among the illuminated areas are the popular shrubbery maze and a portion of the grounds along the water. The event includes 18^th-century musical entertainers who strum, drum, and sing as visitors take in the scenery.

Currie has received a lot of feedback from guests regarding the program since it began.

“It’s been so nice to see people out again,” Currie said. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive. People have said it’s cool and different, and thanked us for trying something new.”

Both locals and tourists alike have attended the new program. Claudia Parks, who is from Pennsylvania, made the trip down to check out “CW Lights” with her sister, who lives locally.

“It’s beautiful,” Parks said. “We really enjoyed it.”

“CW Lights” will remain open through May 2. Masks are required. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.