FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 18, 2021
Media Contact: Angel Waldron, 301-446-3311
M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Announces
The 35th Annual Winter Festival of Lights
Riverdale, MD – Today, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County announces the 2021 Winter Festival of Lights. Now in its 35th year, the festival is a staple in local holiday traditions. With more lights, displays, and entertainment, it is the biggest of its kind in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.
New this year, the entrance of the Festival will be located on Route 202/Largo Road, across the street from the Riverdale Baptist Church, located at 1133 Largo Road, in Upper Marlboro. Please note that the entrance on Route 193 will be closed.
Directions to the NEW Festival entrance are as follows:
- From the Capital Beltway, I-495 – take Exit 17A on to Route 202/South towards Upper Marlboro and continue for approximately 5 miles. The park entrance is on the left, prior to the traffic light at Route 193. You can make the left from the turn lane.
- From Route 301, turn onto Marlboro Pike/Route 725 and then right onto Route 202, for approximately 4.5 miles. The park entrance is on the right, just past the traffic light at Route 193.
“We know it’s the holiday season when the Winter Festival of Lights begins. The Festival of Lights gets better every year. There’s always something new to see,” exclaims Bill Tyler, Director of the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation. “This year we are making an adjustment to create a better experience for the community by utilizing the park entrance on Route 202. We are also offering discounts for online ticket purchases. We want to ensure the best possible experience for visitors and their families this holiday,” says Tyler.
Drive through three miles of whimsical lights and celebrate the magic of the season from the comfort of your vehicle. This year’s spectacular drive-through event features dazzling displays with more than 2.5 million LED lights throughout the park and a giant, 54-foot LED musical tree. Please bring a canned good to donate to local food banks.
WHAT: 35th Annual Winter Festival of Lights
WHEN: Friday, November 26, 2021 - Sunday, January 2, 2022, daily from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
WHERE: Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20774
COST: Admission fees based on vehicle type and method of payment
Face coverings are required when interacting with M-NCPPC staff. Online registration is encouraged. Purchase tickets in advance online and pay only $8 for cars ($10 standard admission). Visit pgparksdirect.com and search keyword "Festival" under "Ticketing.” Please check the ticket code and fees listed.
Bring a little twinkle to your holidays at this spectacular drive-through event. Come celebrate the season with the Department of Parks and Recreation.
About the Department
The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation delivers an award-winning park system through progressive, innovative leadership and a commitment to the community and the environment in Prince George’s County. For more on the Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.pgparks.com and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, PhotoShelter, and Instagram. The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all programs and services. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation.
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