Southern Lights – a laser light art installation (the first of its kind in the U.S.) – will soon be installed along the Congaree River, between the Gervais St. + Blossom St. bridges, with its light show kicking off August 19 (pre-Total Eclipse Weekend).

Say what? Yes, we said laser art installation. The installation is made up of two lasers that beam blue and green light, which is then reflected by several mirrors to make a light pattern over the river.

Starting August 19, Southern Lights will be on display every night, for three hours per night, for the next 10 years (or however long the equipment holds up). The goal? To be a Midlands signature landmark + must-see attraction for tourists.

The $120,000 project is a collab between artist/UofSC professor Chris Robinson and organizations like What’s Next Midlands, One Columbia, EngenuitySC, Vista Guild, S.C. State Museum + City of Columbia – and is funded with a mix of private + public funds and sponsorships. Officials say the lights will not be distracting to drivers, nor will they affect river wildlife.

3 min read / Free Times