A warm, festive glow cut through the evening chill – making things more bearable for those out amidst the glimpse of winter’s impending arrival.
Of course 35,000 lights dancing to music tends to have that effect.
Such was the scene around 876 Willow Avenue Saturday night, as area families gathered for the launch of Magical Lights of Milton – now in its 15th season.
“It’s so humbling to see all these people come out,” said David Geall, who along with wife Donna offer up the wow-factor display each year as both a feel-good holiday celebration and fundraiser for Milton District Hospital.
The idea for the light show was sparked by a similar display across from Georgetown Hospital, where David would often find himself during his time as a paramedic.
“I thought, why can’t we do something like that here,” he recalled. “The woman (who made display) worked in the lab there and said ‘Sure I’ll show you how to do it.’”
A decade and a half later, Magical Lights of Milton has delighted countless residents and raised $100,000 for the hospital.
“It’s fantastic. We need people like the Gealls and events like this,” said Milton District Hospital Foundation board member Jeremy Meehan, on hand with his family for last night’s launch. “What can you say about something like this? It’s special.”
Among the young attendees waving fundraising glow sticks was Daniel Orpwood, who was picked among the dozens of draw entries to help launch the display.
Springridge Farm helped take the chill off with complimentary hot apple cider.
Enjoyed at 99.7 FM for those in vehicles and by simply hitting the button for those walking by, Magical Lights of Milton’s lights are synched to an assortment of holiday tunes – with stars, trees and arches big and small dancing to the music.
It can be seen weeknights until 10 p.m. and weekends (Friday to Sunday) until 10:30 p.m. from now until Jan. 5.
A tap machine is available to make $10 or $20 donations to the hospital.