Sailing Through The Winter Solstice
Imagine yourself sailing through the beautiful lights of Carroll Creek Park during the winter solstice. Although your browser may not support this incredible experience, we highly recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari to fully immerse yourself in the magic. From November to March, individually designed lighted sailboats fill the park, creating a stunning floating light installation. Day or night, you can witness the brilliance of these boats, with the lights turning on at sunset. Not only is Sailing Through the Winter Solstice a sight to behold, but it’s also a fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. By voting for your favorite boat and making a donation, you can help raise funds that support charities in Frederick County. In fact, the 2022-23 season raised over $130,000! This captivating display is organized by the non-profit Color On The Creek, the same group responsible for the beautiful lilies that float on the creek during the summer months. Frederick businesses are invited to sponsor and design a boat, creating a vibrant competition where each dollar donated serves as a vote. The boat with the most votes at the end of the season receives the esteemed traveling Sailing through the Winter Solstice Trophy. If you’re planning a visit, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of this enchanting experience.
On your visit, don’t forget to explore the nearby restaurants, such as The Wine Kitchen, South Mountain Ice Cream Shop & Pizza, and La Paz Mexican Restaurant, to name a few. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, be sure to check out McClintock Distilling Company, Idiom Brewing Co., or Attaboy Beer. While in Frederick County, there is an abundance of activities for every taste. You can unplug and enjoy nature with the endless outdoor opportunities, savor locally produced drinks, embark on great biking trails, and so much more. Signing up for our newsletter will also keep you up to date on all the exciting happenings in Frederick County. So, why wait? Come and experience the magic of Sailing Through the Winter Solstice!”
Sailing Through The Winter Solstice
Welcome to Carroll Creek Park, where every year the park is transformed into a magical display of lighted sailboats for the Sailing Through The Winter Solstice event. This stunning floating light installation runs from November to March, allowing visitors to admire the boats day or night.
See the Boats Day or Night
The beauty of Sailing Through The Winter Solstice is that you can view the boats at any time of the day. Whether you choose to visit during daylight hours or in the evening when the lights come on, you’re bound to be captivated by the charm and creativity of these individually designed sailboats. The lights typically turn on at sunset, so it’s a great idea to visit during this time to experience the boats in both natural and illuminated settings.
Sailing Through the Winter Solstice is a Fundraiser
Not only is Sailing Through The Winter Solstice a visual treat, but it’s also a fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. Visitors have the opportunity to vote on their favorite boat, with each donation supporting these charitable causes. In the previous season, the event raised an impressive $130,000 for charities in Frederick County, showcasing the generosity and community spirit of the area.
Color On The Creek
This magical event is made possible by Color On The Creek, a local nonprofit organization that aims to enhance the beauty and vitality of Carroll Creek. They are also responsible for the stunning lilies that float on the creek during the summer months. Color On The Creek invites Frederick businesses to sponsor and design a sailboat to be displayed during the event. It’s not just a display, though – it’s a friendly competition! Visitors can vote for their favorite boat by making a contribution to the affiliated local charity, with each dollar donated counting as a vote. The boat with the most votes at the end of the season is awarded the prestigious Sailing Through The Winter Solstice Trophy.
Planning a Visit?
If you’re planning a visit to Sailing Through The Winter Solstice, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide. From nearby restaurants to great indoor experiences, you’ll find everything you need to make your visit to Frederick County memorable.
Nearby Restaurants
After admiring the beautiful sailboats, you might find yourself craving a delicious meal. Luckily, Frederick County boasts a diverse selection of restaurants to satisfy any palate. Some popular options include:
- The Wine Kitchen: Indulge in a fine dining experience with a menu showcasing seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list.
- South Mountain Ice Cream Shop & Pizza: Enjoy a casual meal with a wide range of pizza options and delectable ice cream.
- Il Porto Fine Italian Restaurant: Experience the flavors of Italy with a variety of traditional Italian dishes.
- JoJo’s Restaurant & Tap House: This local favorite offers a wide selection of craft beers and a menu featuring American cuisine.
- La Paz Mexican Restaurant: Spice up your visit with authentic Mexican cuisine and refreshing margaritas.
- Lazy Fish: If you’re in the mood for sushi and seafood, this is the place to be.
Grab a Drink
Frederick County is known for its vibrant craft beverage scene, and a visit to Sailing Through The Winter Solstice wouldn’t be complete without enjoying some of these local libations. Here are a few breweries and distilleries to check out:
- McClintock Distilling Company: Sample handcrafted spirits made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Idiom Brewing Co.: Discover a variety of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Attaboy Beer: Experience small-batch brewing at its finest with a rotating selection of innovative beers.
- Attaboy Barrel House: Take a step further into the world of barrel-aged beer with unique flavors and blends.
- Steinhardt Brewing Company: This family-owned brewery offers a range of German-style beers with a modern twist.
- McClintock’s Back Bar: Treat yourself to cocktails made with McClintock Distilling Company’s spirits.
Make a Memorable Visit to Frederick County
While Sailing Through The Winter Solstice is a fantastic event in itself, Frederick County has so much more to offer. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, indulging in local food and beverages, or experiencing the rich history and culture of the area, there’s something for everyone. From hiking trails and parks to art galleries and museums, you’ll find endless opportunities to create lasting memories.
How to Sail Through Winter in Downtown Frederick
Visiting Downtown Frederick in the winter months provides a unique and charming experience. From cozy restaurants and shops to festive events and decorations, the downtown area truly comes alive during the winter season. Check out our guide for tips on making the most of your visit and embracing the winter wonderland atmosphere.
5 Tips for Taking the Chill out of Winter in Frederick, MD
For those brave enough to face the winter chill, Frederick, MD offers plenty of opportunities to stay warm and have fun. Whether it’s exploring the indoor experiences, trying out local distilleries, or enjoying a leisurely bike ride, our tips will help you make the most of your winter adventure in Frederick.
Distilling It Down: Distilleries in Frederick County, MD
Frederick County is home to a growing number of exceptional distilleries that produce unique and flavorful spirits. Get a behind-the-scenes look at these craft distilleries and learn about their distillation processes, signature products, and tasting experiences. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the finest spirits the county has to offer.
Top 5 Indoor Experiences in Frederick This Winter
If you prefer to stay cozy indoors during the winter months, Frederick has you covered with a variety of captivating indoor experiences. From art galleries and museums to escape rooms and live performances, there’s something to satisfy all interests. Dive into our top picks for indoor activities and discover the hidden gems of Frederick County.
Explore the Outdoors
For nature enthusiasts, Frederick County is a paradise waiting to be explored. With its vast array of parks, hiking trails, and scenic landscapes, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to embark on. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the natural beauty of the area.
Drink Local
One of the highlights of visiting Frederick County is experiencing the local craft beverage scene. From wineries and breweries to meaderies and cideries, the county is teeming with talented artisans who take pride in their creations. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Frederick by sampling locally produced wines, brews, ciders, meads, and spirits.
Great Bicycling
Embrace the winter chill by hopping on a bicycle and exploring the picturesque landscapes of Frederick County. With its scenic backroads, charming towns, and rolling hills, the county offers great opportunities for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you prefer road biking or mountain biking, you’ll find trails and routes to suit your skill level and interests.
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