On a cool autumn evening, a magical glow envelops Rentschler Field, home to the UConn Huskies. As the sun sets behind the towering stadium, a captivating aura takes hold, captivating all who gaze upon it. The source of this enchanting light comes from the field itself. Embedded beneath the grassy turf lies a sophisticated system of LED lights, designed to create a mesmerizing spectacle. These lights can be programmed to produce an array of vibrant colors, bringing life to the stadium in a way never seen before. During Huskies' games, the magical glow serves as a backdrop for the fierce battles that take place on the field.
Enter on silver Lane at East Gate
Magic of Lights Returns to Pratt Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field, the family-friendly drive-through holiday lights display with a tremendous amount of twinkling and magical lights to celebrate our grandest holiday of the year. Magic of Lights Returns to Pratt Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field, the family-friendly drive-through holiday lights display with a tremendous amount of twinkling and magical lights to celebrate our grandest holiday of the year.
During Huskies' games, the magical glow serves as a backdrop for the fierce battles that take place on the field. As players sprint across the illuminated stage, their movements seem to be amplified, as if they are dancing amidst a celestial performance. Spectators in the stands marvel at this otherworldly setting, feeling as though they have been transported into a fairytale realm.
Magic of Lights at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford
My family’s favorite way to kick off the holiday season is to pile into the car (especially with yummy snacks or maybe a travel mug of hot cocoa!) and drive through one of the many mesmerizing holiday light displays in our area. It’s a tradition we started waaaaay back when my now 11-year-old was only 15 months old.
My little “Boo” decked out in his cozy pajamas and ready for his first ride through a holiday light display. Ten years later the tradition continues!
This year, we were lucky enough to be invited to preview Magic of Lights at Pratt & Whitney Stadium, which is just a few minutes down the road from us in East Hartford.
Photo courtesy of Magic of LightsYou may recall that last year Magic of Lights was held at Toyota Oakdale Theater in Wallingford, where it attracted more than 190,000 guests during the holiday season. This year, Magic of Lights has moved to the Hartford area, and the drive-through experience is equally dazzling! Themed light displays using the latest LED technology and digital animations include the all new drive-through Blizzard Tunnel as well as returning favorites including 12 Days of Christmas, Winter Wonderland and The Night Before Christmas. And best of all, families and friends will experience the thrill of Magic of Lights from the comfort of their own cars– it’s the ultimate pandemic-proof holiday experience!
This is a cashless event, and you can even purchase your tickets ahead of time online for the ultimate in convenience (tickets will still be available at the gate for an increased price). Then it’s as easy as waving your QR code (straight from your phone or on a printout) at the entrance gate and you’re off!
The light displays spring up along a mile of winding road where visitors are encouraged to turn off their headlights and cruise at a steady slow pace to get the full dazzling effect. Don’t forget to tune your radio to 101.9 for festive tunes for the ride! Since we were there on a very uncrowded evening (Tuesday night is the time to go! LOL), we really got to take our time and enjoy every one of the fantastic light creations. Here are a few of our favorites!
You’ll spot magical creatures, wintery scenes, as well as a collection of holiday-themed displays. Our family celebrates Hanukkah, so we always appreciate the addition of a stunning menorah!
We had so much fun trying to spot all the Twelve Days of Christmas! And the candyland displays got us excited for another one of our annual holiday traditions– gingerbread house decorating!
Magic of Lights will open each day from 5pm and run through 10pm during the run of the show, though some exclusions may apply. Please visit www.magicoflights.com for a complete schedule. Tickets can be used any night Magic of Lights is open.
Now is a great time to visit Magic of Lights because through December 9th the cost is only $30 for a weekday ticket and $35 for an any day ticket, which includes weekends. Beginning Dec 10 – Jan 2, a weekday ticket will be $40 and an any day ticket is $45 when purchased online. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate for $50 on a weekday and $55 on a weekend (including fees). All tickets are per vehicle, NOT per person– so bring the whole extended family! And here’s a little insider tip: you can even plan to have little ones ride on adult passenger laps as you drive through because Holiday of Lights provides a “Buckle Up” area at the end of the drive through so you can all get safely settled back into your seats and buckled up before heading back out to the real road. So no arguments about who is going to have to sit in the back or in the middle! It’s a holiday miracle 🙂
Contactless tickets are on sale now at tickets.magicoflights.com. For more information and a complete schedule please visit www.magicoflights.com.
We hope we’ve inspired you to start a new tradition with your family this holiday season!
• 12.6 miles of light cord per Magic of Lights event
But the magic of the glow extends beyond the confines of the game. Non-football events held at Rentschler Field, such as concerts or festivals, are elevated to new heights with the addition of the radiant illumination. The crowd becomes part of the display, with their movements creating a living, breathing light show. The impact of the magical glow is not limited to visual aesthetics. Its ethereal presence has a profound effect on the atmosphere within the stadium. Fans are filled with a sense of wonder and awe, their spirits lifted by the enchanting surroundings. The cheers and applause of the crowd seem to resonate with an otherworldly quality, heightening the intensity and passion of the event. The spellbinding power of the magical glow at Rentschler Field is a testament to the boundless possibilities of technology and creativity. It not only enhances the visual experience for fans and players, but also creates a unique atmosphere that is both electric and enchanting. As night falls on Rentschler Field, the magical glow takes center stage, transforming the stadium into a realm of wonder and awe. Whether it be a thrilling football game or a lively concert, this mesmerizing illumination brings a touch of magic to all who gather within its radiant embrace..
Reviews for "What Makes Rentschler Field's Glow So Spellbindingly Beautiful?"
1. John - 1 star
I was really disappointed with the "Magical Glow at Rentschler Field" event. The description made it sound like a spectacular light show, but in reality, it was nothing more than a few scattered lights and some generic music playing in the background. The event was overcrowded, and it was almost impossible to find a good spot to view the lights. To make matters worse, the organizers seemed unprepared and ill-equipped to handle the large number of visitors. Overall, it was a complete waste of time and money.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I had high expectations for the "Magical Glow at Rentschler Field," but unfortunately, it fell short of my hopes. The light displays were average at best, and there was a lack of variety. The event lacked organization, as there were no clear directions or signs directing visitors. The supposed "interactive exhibits" were unimpressive and didn't offer much entertainment value. Additionally, the food options were extremely limited, and the lines were ridiculously long. I would not recommend this event to anyone looking for a truly magical and captivating experience.
3. Michael - 1 star
I was incredibly disappointed with the "Magical Glow at Rentschler Field." The light displays were underwhelming and had little creativity or originality. The event was also poorly organized, with long lines and a lack of staff to manage the crowd. The prices for food and drinks were exorbitant, and the quality was subpar. Overall, this event failed to deliver on its promises and I left feeling unsatisfied. I would not attend this event again in the future.