Lights on the Bay at Sandy Point State Park

Christmas Lights on the Chesapeake Bay

By
Rachel Cooper
Rachel Cooper
Rachel Cooper
Rachel Cooper is a travel writer who has lived in the Washington, D.C., area for more than 25 years. She is also the author of several books covering the capital and mid-Atlantic regions.
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Updated on 11/13/19
Christmas Lights

Anne Arundel Medical Center

One of the best ways to celebrate the holiday season is to take an illuminated drive along the Chesapeake Bay This annual event at Sandy Point State Park makes a great family tradition. Every year, more than 60 animated and stationary displays light up the roadway in this fundraising event put on by the SPCA of Anne Arundel County.

In addition to popular classic holiday displays, like the North Pole, visitors can enjoy scenes of a colonial village inspired by historic Annapolis and Naval Academy Midshipmen tossing their hats in the air. If you really want to see the displays come to life, 3D glasses will be available for purchase.

What You Need to Know

Sandy Point State Park is located just outside Annapolis, Maryland on Route 50. It takes about an hour to reach from either Washington D.C. or Baltimore. The cost of admission is on a per car basis, however you may be able to find some coupons through local businesses and newspapers. It will also cost more if you arrive in a large passenger van or bus.

Hours and Special Events

In 2019, Lights on the Bay will take place from November 24 to January 1, 2020. The show is open every night from 5 to 10 p.m. Keep an eye out for these special events going on during the holiday season:

  • Dashing Thru the Snow Fun Run and 5K: On November 22, 2019, you can get check your nightly workout off your list in the most festive way imaginable: joining a friendly 5K run through the holiday light displays. Tickets must be purchased in advance and no walk-ups will be accepted.
  • Lights and Leashes: On November 23, 2019 you can bring your pup with you to see the lights. This is the only night pets will be allowed to walk through the display on foot. Leashes will be required.