KNOW BEFORE YOU GLOW
Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL INFO
Q: Where is the Merriweather Symphony of Lights held?
A: Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 20144. The line for the drive through starts on the intersection of Broken Land Parkway and Hickory Ridge Road. Follow instructions from the Howard County police and/or our employees directing traffic. View the entire map here.
Q: How long is the course?
A: Approximately 1 mile.
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Q: Can you walk through the display or is this only permitted during special events?
A: Walking through the light displays is a fantastic way to experience the Symphony of Lights! Walking is only permitted during our Walk Through Nights.
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Q: Do I have to purchase my ticket in advance or can I buy one at the entrance?
A: For Walk Through Nights, advance purchase is mandatory as capacity is limited. For regular Drive Through, advance purchase is not necessary but highly encouraged for a contactless experience.
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Q: Help! I lost/deleted/haven't received my ticket after purchasing online, what do I do?
A: We can resend your confirmation email or we can look you up by name/email address on the day of your visit.
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Q: What radio frequency do I tune in to for event information and holiday music while I drive through?
A: 105.5FM
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Q: Are private group rentals available?
A: No, private group rentals are not available.
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Q: Is the Symphony of Lights still run by the Howard County General Hospital?
A: No. However, a portion of proceeds still benefit the Howard County General Hospital.
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Q. So, what exactly does the Symphony of Lights support then?
A: By purchasing a ticket to any Symphony of Lights event, you are supporting Howard County General Hospital and the Downtown Columbia Arts and Culture Commission. Not to mention ensuring that the Symphony of Lights is around for generations to come!
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Q: What is the weather policy?
A: All events occur rain, shine or snow. In the unlikely event of a cancellation, a message will be posted on the Symphony of Lights social media pages, and an email will be sent to registered guests. So make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
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Q: Is there a Symphony of Lights contest?
A: Yes! More details here.
PRICING
Q: What are the prices for the events?
A: $25 per vehicle during regular drive through days. $15 per person for Festive Families and $12 for Tail Lights. $15 per person or $50 family 4-pack for Midnight at 7.
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Q: Are listed prices per person or per car?
A: Prices are per vehicle, and prices for walk through nights are per person.
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Q: Do you accept credit cards or cash only?
A: Credit cards and cash are accepted for drive and walk through.
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Q: Do you offer any discounts?
A: We offer discounts for military and frontline workers.
Military and veterans: drive thru tickets are $10 off per vehicle on Thursdays. Valid with ID only at the gate.
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Q: Do you offer group discounts?
A: No.
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Q: What is your refund policy?
A: Refunds are not available.
DRIVE THROUGH
Q. Where is the drive-through entrance?
A. The entrance to the drive through is at the intersection of Broken Land Parkway and Hickory Ridge Road. Click here to view a map. However, with increases in traffic, our employees along with the Howard County police change the pattern constantly to accommodate attendees. Please follow their direction when you get to the area.
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Q: Is there a separate entrance for those who purchase advance tickets online?
A: No. Since we are located in the middle of Downtown Columbia, we are only allowed to block one of two lanes. The other lane must remain open for regular traffic and emergency vehicles.
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Q: I bought a ticket, but was unable to pick a date. When should I come?
A: Our drive through tickets are valid any night, except walk through nights. Just show up!
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Q. We want a completely contactless experience. How do we show our ticket without rolling down our window?
A. Our scanners are able to check your ticket through the glass. Either hold up your mobile device or printed ticket window and you should be good to go!
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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.
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Q: What is the Symphony of Lights radio channel for listening to event information and holiday music while driving through the display route?
A: 105.5FM
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Q: Are the lights open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
A: Yes, the drive through is open for all holidays.
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Q: Is my pet allowed to drive through with me?
A: Yes, as long as everyone stays in their vehicle.
WALK THROUGH
Q: Do we have to arrive when the event begins or can we start our walk at any time the event is open?
A: You can start your walk any time the event is open. We close the course 30 minutes before the listed end time to give everyone ample time to walk through.
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Q. Do I have to purchase a ticket for my child who is under 3 years old?
A: No.
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Q. How much time do we have to go through the course?
A: You can go as fast or as slow as you want. Please just keep social distance and be respectful of everyone's space!
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Q. Where is parking?
A. Merriweather lots 2 and 3. Click here for directions and info.
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Q: Will there be food and drinks?
A: Yes. A complete list will be provided soon!
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Q: What is the refund policy for walk through nights?
A: Refunds are not available for any Symphony of Lights events.
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Q: Can you push strollers or wagons through the course?
A: Yes; children in strollers, wagons, baby carriers and backpacks are welcome.
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Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Dogs are only allowed to walk through during Tail Lights, with the exception of service animals. Dogs are always welcome during drive through as long as they remain in the vehicle.
WAS YOUR QUESTION NOT ANSWERED HERE?
Ask us your question(s) directly on Facebook or Instagram! Alternatively, please send an email to info@merriweatherlights.com.