Experience Merriweather Lights: Maryland’s Iconic Holiday Drive-Through Spectacle
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No physical exertion required; accessible for all ages and activity levels.
Overview
Discover Merriweather Lights, Maryland’s beloved holiday drive-through experience with over 300,000 dazzling bulbs and festive scenes. Perfect for families and groups, this longstanding tradition illuminates the winter nights near Columbia’s historic pavilion.
Drive Through General Admission
4 Hours • All ages • Tickets are per vehicle • Book Now!
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About This Adventure
Experience the enchanting Symphony of Lights at the historic Merriweather Post Pavilion, featuring over 300,000 dazzling bulbs and captivating holiday displays. This beloved tradition, now over 25 years strong, promises a memorable drive-through adventure for families. Enjoy new lights each year and support a great cause while creating lasting holiday memories.
Drive through spectacular light displays at historic Merriweather Post Pavilion!
Duration
Monday - Friday: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Saturday & Sunday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM *Closed on select nights, see below for more info
About
The Symphony of Lights has been a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition enjoyed by many for over 25 years. Set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion and made up of more than 300,000 bulbs, this family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. With the addition of new lights every year, your time through our refreshed course guarantees a night to remember.
A portion of proceeds from this event benefit the Howard County General Hospital.
More info
The drive through line starts at the intersection of Hickory Ridge Road and Broken Land Parkway.
If the roads are blocked, please follow directions from our traffic employees and/or the police!
Cash and credit accepted at entrance to course. Tickets are valid any night we are open, regardless of the date you pick (so if you can’t make it on the date you purchased, just show up when you can!)
Thursday nights are Military Nights. $10 off available at the entrance with valid ID for military and veterans.
Closed on select nights and these walk through events:
December 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, 12, 31 December 1 - Festive Families December 9 - Tail Lights December 3, 10, 12 - Lit at the Lights December 31 - Midnight at 7
Q: What is the weather policy? A: All events occur rain or snow. In the unlikely event of a cancellation, a message will be posted on the Symphony of Lights social media pages, and registered guests will get an email. So make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
Q: Do you offer any discounts? A: We offer discounts for military and frontline workers. Military and veterans: drive thru tickets are $10 per vehicle on Thursdays. Valid with ID only at the gate.
Q: I bought a ticket, but was unable to make the date. Can I rebook? A: Our drive through tickets are valid any night, except walk through nights. Just show up with your original ticket!
Q: Can buses, limos and dual axle vehicles drive through the course? A: No, these vehicles cannot be accommodated. So long as your vehicle isn't over 96 inches high and 90 inches wide (8 ft x 7.5ft), it should fit in our course. Regular 15 passenger vans are accepted if they do not exceed the height and width restrictions.
Adventure Tips
Book tickets in advance
Secure your preferred time slot online to avoid long waits during peak holiday evenings.
Drive slowly for best viewing
Maintain a slow, steady pace so you don’t miss any intricate displays along the route.
Keep windows up for sound quality
Enjoy the synced festive music by keeping your car windows closed during the drive.
Dress warmly for after the drive
While inside the car is warm, bundle up if you plan to stroll or gather outside afterward.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Local winter birds such as cardinals and blue jays can sometimes be spotted through the trees after the event.
- Squirrels are common in the area but usually avoid the busy light show zones.
History
The Merriweather Post Pavilion, established in 1967, is a historic concert venue that now hosts this long-standing holiday tradition, combining music and light artistry.
Conservation
Organizers emphasize LED lighting to reduce energy consumption and encourage guests to responsibly reduce waste during their visit.
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Adventure Hotspots in Columbia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm layers
Stay comfortable if you step outside your vehicle before or after the drive.
winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the dazzling light displays and festive moments along the route.
winter specific
Charged phone
Use for ticket confirmation and navigation to the event location.
winter specific
Snacks and drinks
Enjoy inside your car while watching the displays, especially with kids.
winter specific