Suffolk's Grand Illumination
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Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Suffolk's Grand Illumination

Annual Grand Illumination event with Santa and carriage rides.

About

Suffolk kicks off its holiday season with the annual Grand Illumination event. Experience the magic as the area lights up after a countdown, followed by seasonal music and delightful horse-drawn carriage rides. Inside, enjoy festive activities, a captivating puppet show, and a special meet-and-greet with Santa Claus. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

Our Take

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, welcoming, magical

Energy Level

Low

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Special Events & Promotions

  • Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides
  • Meet and greet with Santa Claus

Tags

holiday traditionSanta visitshorse drawn carriagescommunity celebrationfamily friendlyfree eventseasonal activitiesholiday cheer

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

110 West Finney Avenue
Suffolk, VA
23434

Event Details

Pricing

FREE

Duration

2 hours

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Suffolk Parks & Recreation

Practical Information

Parking

Parking available at First Baptist Church (237 N Main St), Seaboard Train Station (326 N Main St), and Godwin Courts (150 N Main St). Limited handicap parking at the Suffolk Cultural Arts Center (110 W. Finney Ave).

Pet Policy

No pets allowed

Food & Drink

Food and beverages available from Arts Kitchen

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially at the limited handicap spots near the venue.
  • Dress warmly as parts of the event are outdoors, and consider bringing a blanket for the carriage ride.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the event takes place in late November.
  • Have your camera ready for photos with Santa and to capture the festive light displays.
  • Bring cash for any additional food or beverage purchases from Arts Kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Suffolk Visitor Center located?

The Suffolk Visitor Center is located at 524 North Main Street, Suffolk, VA 23434. You can find directions on Google Maps.

What kinds of tours are offered by the Suffolk Division of Tourism?

Suffolk Tourism offers a variety of tours, including walking, bus, and kayak tours. They cater to history buffs, nature lovers, adventurers, and those interested in the supernatural side of Suffolk.

How can I plan a conference in Suffolk?

Suffolk offers a range of venues for conferences, from full-service hotels to unique restored landmarks. More information can be found on their meetings page.

Where can I find more information about Suffolk's events?

You can find more information about Suffolk's events on the Visit Suffolk Virginia website, specifically in their Calendar of Events section.

Who should I contact for more information about Suffolk's Grand Illumination?

For more information about Suffolk's Grand Illumination, you can contact Suffolk Parks & Recreation at (757) 514-7250 or sslate@suffolkva.us.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The ChristmasLocal.com editorial team

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