A visit to Downtown Frederick, Maryland in the winter months cannot be complete without a visit to one of the most unique winter light displays anywhere in the world. On the waters of Carroll Creek Park, you'll find 28 lighted, decorated sailboats inviting you to explore this urban park at the heart of a 50-block historic district.
Every year Carroll Creek Park in downtown Frederick is filled with individually designed lighted sailboats. This floating light installation sets sail in November and is on display through March. Sailing Through the Winter Solstice serves as a fundraiser for Frederick County nonprofit organizations. The fleet has grown from one boat the first year to 28 sailing boats and 1 land-locked boat in the 2024-25 season that raised $140,000.
You can view the boats anytime day or night. In fact, you may want to take a look at these intricate constructions while it's light out and go back again after it gets dark and the lights come on. Lights typically turn on at sunset, so this is a great time to see them both ways.
Sailing Through the Winter Solstice is a fundraiser – visitors can vote on their favorite boat, with donations supporting local non-profit organizations. Use the Visit Frederick guide to plan your visit and sail through winter with light and fun in Downtown Frederick. You can support this year's fleet here!