The annual Wise Avenue Volunteer Fire Company Train Garden has returned for its 41st year of delightful and astonishing holiday lights. With a whirlwind of newly-displayed buildings, trees, and animated features, it’s sure to provide the holiday spirit to all.

According to their website, they first opened their doors on February 22, 1942. With only two other companies in the area, they soon became well-respected. Within six years, it became a true fire company.

However, the first to host the Christmas Train Garden was the Dundalk Fire Station, which closed in 1978. The members of the Wise Avenue Fire Station learned of the news and decided to keep the holiday tradition.

Dundalk Fire Station members were sure to donate all items to Wise Avenue to create the beloved Train Garden and renew the holiday fun.

Wise Avenue’s website also claims that members recognized this opportunity and decided to increase the size of displays and double the exhibits.

Every year, the fire company’s volunteers use their original ideas to construct new scenes, adding to the nine separate trains and six levels of dazzling effects, creating a vision of wonderment and surprise for people of all ages.

By its first opening, more than 16,000 people came to visit, and the garden got outstanding reviews. This allowed the fire station to exceed limits, making it the largest garden exhibit in the country.

Not only is it for pure Christmas joy and entertainment, but the company also annually holds fundraisers, raffles, and donation boxes to fund much-needed fire equipment and building maintenance. To enter the Train Garden, a one-dollar donation is appreciated and used for future events.

Although the lines are usually manageable, it is not uncommon to have people crowded into the hall waiting in lines extending out of the front doors to catch a glimpse of the magic inside.

The Wise Avenue Train Garden is located at 214 Wise Ave, Dundalk, MD 21222 from Monday-Friday 6 pm-9 pm, and Saturday-Sunday, 12 PM-9 PM.

It usually opens the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, continuing into the New Year, so make sure to visit this holiday season.