Dinosaurs, Big Top Circus, New Displays In 40th Annual Festival Of Lights

UPPER MARLBORO, MD — New light additions are coming to the 40th annual Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park.

The Festival of Lights kicks off Nov. 27 with more than 90 new LED displays, a 15-foot custom anniversary arch, a 52-foot LED musical tree and new theme sections, including big top circus, dinosaurs and more.

“For 40 years we’ve been spreading holiday cheer through dazzling light displays at Watkins Regional Park,” said Darius A. Stanton, director of M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County. “This is where holiday memories are made. Many visitors grew up coming to the Festival of Lights and now bring their own children, creating traditions that span generations.”

More than 5 million lights will illuminate the park’s 3-mile driving trail. For a different experience, visitors can enjoy the light displays aboard a hayride. Advance online registration for the hayrides is required.

“Coming to the Festival of Lights is a tradition for a lot of families, whether you are from Prince George’s County, Montgomery County or another part of the state,” said Essence Smith, principal recreation specialist with M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation.

Since its debut in 1987, the Festival of Lights has grown into a destination event that welcomes more than 50,000 visitors each year.

Festival of Lights will run from Nov. 27 through Jan. 1 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at Watkins Regional Park, 301 Watkins Park Drive.

Visitors are encouraged to donate new hats, scarves, gloves and socks to help community members in need. Donations can be dropped off at the entrance ticket booth.

For more information about the Festival of Lights, visit pgparks.com/lights.