Have you been to see Lights on the Bay at Sandy Point State Park (Anne Arundel County) yet this year? It’s a beloved annual tradition 29 years in the making and one that continues to delight and charm visitors of all ages. Having officially kicked off the holiday season on November 19, Lights on the Bay will continue its nightly run (including holidays) through January 1, 2024. So, you can rejoice in knowing that there’s still plenty of time to check things out if you haven’t yet had the opportunity to do so.
Made possible by the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, Lights on the Bay doubles as one of the organization’s most popular annual fundraisers. The SPCA of Anne Arundel County is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization in the County and does plenty of great work throughout the community. That makes attending Lights on the Bay not only a fun and festive pursuit but also a way to support a wonderful cause.
Lights on the Bay features approximately 70 diverse light displays, both animated and stationary, spanning a two-mile stretch along the Chesapeake Bay. This season’s theme primarily encompasses both traditional holiday-influenced designs as well as those inspired by historic Annapolis. There are just so many stunningly beautiful lights and other sights to behold here! It’s the perfect balance of Christmas conventional and uniquely original.
In addition to viewing the lights, visitors can enjoy other onsite delights, some of which are offered daily while others are presented as specials, including featured pet night events. Every evening there is an enjoyable scavenger hunt that kids and kids at heart can opt to pursue. It works by scouting out various hidden items throughout the different displays, answering related questions, and being entered into a drawing to win prizes. You can click the events link to learn about this and other specific offerings on select nights.
Lights on the Bay is open Monday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Sunday between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. Admission is $20 per car and $30 for larger passenger vans, mini buses, and trolleys. Larger buses are $50. Coupons and promotional discounts are available through various local publications and area retailers. For an additional $5 you can purchase 3D glasses to enhance your viewing pleasure.
To get here, follow directions from your current location to Sandy Point State Park, located off Route 50, at Exit 32, near the Bay Bridge. Learn more by visiting the Lights on the Bay website at www.lightsonthebay.org.