In recent months, Baltimore has been known for its dark shadow that it cast upon modern American history. At least that's what all the outsiders see. Yes, the crime rate has skyrocketed and you can't turn on the nightly news without hearing about some kind of shooting but for civilians in Baltimore, there is so much more to the city. It can seem irritating; non-Baltimoreans are quick to judge the atmosphere and community aspect, or lack thereof, that is rooted in the Baltimore community. A "small" city, a population a little over half a million people, thrive in a place where the arts, music, food, style, and sports all come together to create a home-y feeling atmosphere.
In continuing with Baltimore's developing art scene, Light City has been created to "provide a backdrop for the celebration of ideas, ingenuity and creativity through art, music and innovation." "Light City will shine a light on Baltimore's abundance of creative, cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary talent, and we welcome participants from across the globe to join us," a spokesperson for the festival states. It will take place during both the day and the night March 28 through April 3.
Light City Festival's mission and core values help to strike up conversation and allow for an accurate picture as to why Baltimore is the chosen location. "The lights will transform our physical surroundings into a wondrous illuminated playground for the imagination, while the conference and workshops will bring together great thinkers and leaders to exchange ideas and create the connections that spur innovation. The music of Light City will provide the score for the entire experience. The art, music and innovations experiences of Light City will be tied together by our city's fundamental values: collaboration, innovation, sustainability, audience engagement, and transformation."
Light walks and attractions light up the city with vibrant colors, concerts and performances showcase local up and coming talent, most admission in this festival being free. With lectures and conventions throughout the day and performances and lights throughout the night, the Light City Festival is sure to draw attention to the community. It's activities and presentations are geared toward any age group, allowing Baltimore to gain back its home-y feeling and the reputation of being art-inspired. New technology is being brought into the festival as well, especially with the program Light City U. According to a Light City Festival spokesperson, "Light City U is bringing together innovators and thought leaders in four key industries during America's first large-scale light, music, and innovation festival. During the week change makers from across the nation will explore one question: How do we become a more responsible and equitable society?" It is important and necessary that individuals come to reflect on this question in the city of Baltimore, where racial injustice has hit the community hard since the development of this neighbored and the surrounding areas.
With the right dynamic, this festival has the ability to bring back the feeling of a community into the Baltimore City area.
Make sure you don't miss this festival, starting Monday, March 28, running through Sunday, April 3.
