Chesapeake Beach, MD – A traditional highlight of Thanksgiving weekend in Chesapeake Beach got an early start in 2017. The 30th annual Light Up the Town was held Sunday, Nov. 26. While the ceremony normally occurs well after sunset, this year town officials scheduled the event to begin at 4:30 p.m. The glow of the many lights was just as colorful in the early dusk.
Chesapeake Beach Mayor Pat Mahoney—presiding over his first Light Up the Town ceremony along with holdovers Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus—praised the town’s Public Works employees and contractors for making the massive display possible. In the fall of 2015, Mahoney, then the town council’s vice president, introduced the “Santa Claus Ordinance,” which called for the appropriation of a portion of the town’s unallocated general fund reserve for special events like the municipality’s Christmas lights display. Town officials purchase additional lights several months prior to the Yuletide season when the prices are the most advantageous.
Residents and businesses will value-add to the glow. They are encouraged to enter the judging for the Brightest Beacon on the Bay contest. Prizes will be awarded to those judged tops in the single-family homes, townhomes, local business and boat categories. Judging will be conducted through Dec. 15 but those home, boat and business owners who want to be considered must register with the town. Call the Chesapeake Beach Town Hall at 410-257-2230 to register.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
