(Flight of Lights 2020, photos courtesy of Flight of Lights)

"It started as a creative response to the canceling of so many area events, and the stay at home order," says Michael Riechers, Dane County Regional Airport's Director of Marketing and Communications. Now in its' second year, the Madison area airport is looking to make their free of charge, Flight of Lights: an annual event. "COVID-19 brought a tremendous drop in travel but also a disconnect with the community," Riechers added. Flight of Lights is not a sponsored event, but put on entirely by Dane County as way to support the community through these difficult times..

DCRA, an airport that has received numerous awards over the years with its' commitment to sustainability and Prairie School design has placed a priority on community connectivity. Art Court, a space developed in partnership with the non-profit, Wisconsin Visual Artists (WVA) is a shining example of the airport's fostering that connection. Located on the ticketing level of the terminal, the art gallery features revolving exhibits from Wisconsin artists. Flight of Lights extends the communal space of the airport outdoors. "We wanted to put on an event for the community where people could be near one another without being near one another," said Riechers

Because of the incredible response to last year's event, this year will feature even more displays. The 2021 Flight of Lights is organized into six distinct light displays along the drive-thru route. Visitors will see tributes to first responders; healthcare workers; Wisconsin sports; maritime, nature,; and Madison's travel destinations. "We’ deliberately scheduled Flight of Lights for late winter and not as a holiday oriented event," says Riechers as he wanted people to experience the colorful displays during the waning, grey days of the season.

And beyond 2021, Michael Riechers is optimistic for the future. With a fully, (COVID-19) vaccinated population, he imagines the Flight of Lights becoming an annual event including a scavenger hunt for the kids.

The Details:

When: The Flight of Lights is viewable daily from 7:30p.m. to 11:30p.m.

March 20 through April 4, 2021

Where: On the Dane County Regional Airport (DCRA) grounds along International Lane

Directions: Exit Packers Avenue and turn left onto International Lane.

DCRA is located at 4000 International Lane Visit here for a Google Map. with directions.