Art is Where You Find It

“Miracle on 34th Street”, aka the holiday lights on 34th street in Baltimore. Taken on the evening of December 25, 2007 by Michael Mitchell, art teacher at Mount View Middle, local artist and musician, and my husband!

HI everyone! You know I’m always encouraging you to see the beauty and art in the everyday world around you. It is amazing to me that a few thousand little electric lights can transform this everyday world so much. I look forward to this particular display in Hampden every year. Last night, my husband and I took our two year old son to see these lights for the very first time. He’s only two, but his “ooo, WOWWW!” really said it all. I love that this community comes together every year and creates this spectacle for everyone to enjoy. No matter what holiday you celebrate, this is just pure fun to see. Some of the homes are open so you can see the decorations inside too. There are electric trains on porches, gingerbread men on rooftops, a tree made out of old hubcaps, inflatable snowmen, giant dioramas, and of course, the obligatory Baltimore lawn ornament: pink flamingos. Whether you drive slowly down the street or take the time to walk onto every porch, the lights on 34th street are an unforgettable experience of visionary community art. Enjoy!!