Pocket park (n.) – “a very small park or outdoor area for public leisure, especially an urban plaza or courtyard with benches and fountains.”

Charleston is home to many hidden treasures, and pocket parks are some of the best. Sitting near the corner of Anson + George Streets is Theodora Park – a vision created by Charlestonian David Rawle in Charleston’s historic Ansonborough neighborhood.

This “beautifully tranquil public garden,” as described by the New York Times, honors Rawle’s late mother Theodora C. Rawle – “a graceful and caring person who especially loved the beauty of nature and art.”

This holiday season, the pocket park is home to a special light display that will immerse visitors in a mini wonderland.

Illuminating the park’s pathways, plants + fountain are twinkling laser light “jewels” and multi-colored globe lights – all created by Mike Rollins of Moonlighting Landscape Lighting Systems – that add a magical feel to the small space.

Additionally, words of inspiration and hope are projected on the park’s walls and trees in recognition of the challenges faced in 2020. Along with the words “Hope” + “Imagine” illuminating the trunks of two palm trees are four quotes displayed on the walls:

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” -The Dalai Lama
“Let your smile change the world.” -Connor Franta
“Peace be you.” -Pat Croce
“Only in the darkness can you see the stars.” -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The light display, which will run every evening during the holiday season + is free to the public, provides a small escape from reality as visitors take in the peaceful tranquility of nature, beautiful lights + encouraging words.

Read more about Theodora Park here.