Illumination Night returns July 18

The Onset Bay Association will light up Onset Bay with over 1,500 flares along the water for its annual illumination night on Saturday, July 18 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 

Illumination Night has been hosted by the Onset Bay Association for over 30 years, but the tradition could have began much earlier. Organizers have had varying theories over the years. Some have said the flares were used to welcome fishermen home as they returned from sea. Others said that residents used to place lanterns on their porches and walk around the Onset neighborhood.   

According to organizers, there's not a bad seat around for this year's iteration of the luminous evening, but Main Beach and Bluffs are "optimal viewing spots" to see the flares. 

Alongside the lights, residents can enjoy some tunes with live music at the Gazebo. Flares will be lit at 9 p.m. and burn for approximately 30 minutes, according to the Onset Bay Association. 

Like previous years, Illumination Night is being held in honor of Sandi Besse, the founder of Shell Point Real Estate who was formerly named Wareham's Woman of the Year and has served on the Onset Bay Association, Wareham Finance Committee and Onset Prudential Committee. 

If needed, a rain date is scheduled for Sunday, July 19. Illumination Night is free and volunteers will be accepting donations throughout.