Welcome to Illumination, the literary soirée of the year, where we come together to celebrate Lighthouse and its writing community. Join Lighthouse for an evening of food, philanthropy, and conversation in support of writers like you!
Special Guest
We’re excited to announce that our guest of honor is Colson Whitehead! Since his last visit to Lighthouse, Colson has won two Pulitzer Prizes, a National Book Award, and has seen both The Nickel Boys and The Underground Railroad move from page to screen. The final book in his award-winning Harlem Trilogy, Cool Machine, will be released in summer 2026, shortly before he visits Lighthouse.
Become a Sponsor!
Sponsorships are available for individuals and businesses who want to support Lighthouse and enjoy a memorable evening with friends, family, and fellow writers. Table sponsorships start at $3,500 and can be purchased on the event website.
To learn more, check out our sponsorship opportunities, or contact Development Manager Kacey Lawniczak at [email protected].
Tickets
Tickets are on sale!
The early-bird rate is $300 and ends on June 21. Afterwards, the price will be $350.
Illumination Program
Join us at the Studio Loft at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House on September 24, 2026, for a night of celebrating the stories that bind us and enrich our lives. The event will be emceed by the writer of Slow Getting Up: A Story of NFL Survival from the Bottom of the Pile, and former player for the Denver Broncos, Nate Jackson.
The schedule is as follows:
5:00-6:00 PM: Gold & Silver Sponsor VIP Reception with Colson Whitehead
6:00-7:00 PM: Cocktail Hour
7:00-9:00 PM: Dinner and Special Guest
9:00-9:30 PM: Goodbyes
Menu
Salad: Mixed Greens, Goat Cheese, Hazelnuts, Butternut Squash, Poached Pears, Balsamic Vinaigrette
Entrees: Roasted Chicken Breast, Piquillo Ragu, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Zucchini, Green Mojo OR
Mushroom Bolognese Lasagna, Tomato Sugo, Whipped Ricotta, Pinenut Basil Pesto
Dessert: Dark Chocolate Torte, Passionfruit Mousse, Dark Chocolate Ganache, Sugar Tuile