For 17 years, Symphony of Lights has been a holiday tradition for residents of Howard and surrounding counties. Originally beginning as a small community fundraising event for Howard County General Hospital, Symphony of Lights since has grown to be the must-see holiday event in Maryland, with more than 100,000 visitors each year.
The idea for Symphony of Lights came from David Abramson, former chairman of the hospital’s board of directors, and his wife, Lynn, who saw a similar light show in 1993 in Newport News, Va. Symphony of Lights was the first drive-through display in Maryland. During its first year, it received national media attention and appeared on “Good Morning America.”
The Symphony of Lights spans 1.4 miles in the scenic Symphony Woods at Merriweather Post Pavilion. Drive through more than 70 larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. The light sculptures reach as high as 25 feet and as wide as 66 feet. Hundreds of thousands of light bulbs make up the winter wonderland. Symphony of Lights even features its own FM radio frequency so guests can enjoy seasonal music during their festive drive.
Those who enter through the 35-foot-wide twinkling arch will see frolicking bears ski-jumping, tossing snowballs, riding snowmobiles and delivering holiday packages. Elves will be hard at work in their toy-making factory and a magnificent Mother Goose display brings favorite nursery rhymes to life.
Symphony of Lights continues to be a major fundraiser for Howard County General Hospital, with proceeds during the past 17 years totaling more than $1 million. 2010 saw record fundraising and attendance numbers for two special events, Tail Lights and Blinkin’ Binkies.
“Symphony of Lights is a fun and unique holiday event,” said Victor A. Broccolino, president and CEO of Howard County General Hospital. “ Not only is it a great way to bring the community together during the holiday season, but everyone benefits from the event, including the hospital, local businesses and the Howard County tourism industry.”
The archway leading into the Symphony of Lights display.
The community plays a major part in the annual Symphony of Lights. Since its inception, more than 1.4 million individuals have visited the lights in vehicles or on foot. Beyond Howard County, guests come from Baltimore City; Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Anne Arundel and Montgomery counties; Washington, D.C.; northern Virginia; southern Pennsylvania; and Delaware.
Marriage proposals have even taken place during the event. Last year, Tim Hartman proposed to his girlfriend, Lindsay Kyzer, among the twinkling lights.
“We have had women go into labor on the course, so, naturally, we took them to our hospital to deliver the babies,” Broccolino commented.
More than just a light show, Symphony of Lights now offers four unique events that draw large crowds of diverse community members. Special festivities at the Symphony of Lights include Dazzle Dash, Blinkin’ Binkies, Tail Lights and Midnight at 7.
Dazzle Dash is a 1.4-mile run/walk through the lights that this year will take place on Nov. 19 and 20. In the past, catered food was provided by Eggspectation, Champps and Chipotle. Apple Ford was the 2010 presenting sponsor for Dazzle Dash.
Blinkin’ Binkies is a family-friendly walk through the lights that will take place on Dec. 8. Strollers and wagons are welcome on the course. Children age 3 and under are admitted for free.
Tail Lights is a pet-friendly evening for dogs and their owners that will take place on Dec. 13. Owners can dress up their pets in fun holiday attire for a walk through the Symphony of Lights. Last year, Animal Rescue groups were on hand with pets that are available for adoption.
Back by popular demand this year is Midnight at 7, a New Year’s Eve celebration for families that culminates with fireworks at 7 p.m. — early enough so that little ones can enjoy the festivities. The event offers a walk through the animated lights display and other exciting activities as the Symphony of Lights comes to a close.
“Symphony of Lights is a great community activity and a wonderful tradition, and I’m hoping it will continue for many years,” said Broccolino.
Symphony of Lights is located in Symphony Woods off Broken Land Parkway in Columbia. Drive-throughs are open nightly from 6–10 p.m. The show runs from Nov. 21 through Jan. 1, 2012. Symphony of Lights will be closed on Dec. 31 for Midnight at 7. Private walk-throughs also are available for groups.
Admission to Symphony of Lights is $20 per car or van up to eight passengers; $45 for commercial vans and minibuses seating nine to 24 people; and $125 for buses exceeding 24 passengers. Tickets can be purchased at the main gate. Tour operators can purchase tickets in advance. Discount coupons worth $5 off are available through local newspapers and magazines or by visiting www.hcgh.org/symphonyoflights.
Event information is available by calling the Howard Hospital Foundation at 410-740-7840 or by visiting www.hcgh.org/symphonyoflights.
