First 'Light City Baltimore' Kicking Off New Tradition

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The lights may be out, but the buzz is still lingering. The first Light City Baltimore is proving to be a huge hit.

WJZ's Tracey Leong explains how it's kicking off a new tradition.

The first large-scale light festival took over Baltimore's Inner Harbor for one week, attracting more than 400,000 visitors.

Lights and plenty of action.

"This is without a doubt Baltimore's newest annual tradition," said Kathy Hornig, festivals director, Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts.

The 2016 light city festival electrified the Inner Harbor.

"Glad that Baltimore did it because it is something nice and gets people out for the spring weather," one visitor said.

Glowing for seven days with art, music and unforgettable sights.

"Draws people back downtown. Great tourist destination and great for the locals as well," said one visitor.

A family-friendly festival with something for everyone.

"Ferris wheel, cotton candy, treats and a merry-go-round," another visitor said.

A creative collaboration illuminating clever minds to not only dazzle visitors, but also highlight sustainability with art along the water.

"Learned a lot about the whole ecosystem and stuff like that, so it was a learning experience as well," a visitor said.

And boosting business for restaurants nearby.

"Staff a little extra for the period. A lot of people come in and enjoy the dinner, then go out and enjoy the activities on the street," said Joe Pastore, OCeanaire Seafood Room.

Showcasing Charm City in the brightest way possible.

"All just coming together to celebrate what's great about our city. We've had huge crowds. It has been an amazing success," said Hornig.

The Light City Baltimore committee is already busy planning ahead for next year's festival--and they expect it to be even bigger than this one.

The committee is also surveying the businesses impacted and getting feedback for the next event.