Ellsworth, Maine, is currently aglow with the Terwilliger Family Light Show, an event that brings together elaborate lights, synchronized music, and a palpable sense of community spirit. This free, distinct music-synced display draws crowds Friday through Sunday evenings, offering a bright attraction for residents and visitors alike. The current Halloween presentation is set to conclude on October 31, after which the family will prepare for their annual Christmas show, which is scheduled to kick off on Black Friday.
The origins of this large-scale community offering trace back to Bob Terwilliger's own childhood fascination with holiday lights. He recalls an early passion for “regular old fashioned lights” that often led to challenges like “blown fuses.” This childhood interest laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a significant regional attraction.
The show took a substantial leap in scope in November 2020. At that time, the Terwilliger family made the decision to “kick it up a notch,” transforming their display into a full-fledged production. This initial full show utilized 48 light channels. The family’s commitment to this endeavor has grown dramatically since then. Today, the Terwilliger Family Light Show operates with an impressive 38,000 light channels, a scale that necessitates a full week for its meticulous setup. Bob Terwilliger noted that the 2020 expansion was undertaken because the family felt “everybody needed a little something to look forward to.”
The Terwilliger family has made the deliberate choice to keep their elaborate show free for all attendees, a decision reinforced by consistent feedback from the community. Each year, letters arrive from both children and parents, expressing gratitude and the show's impact. Bob Terwilliger shared that some of these communications “tug at your heart strings pretty hard,” underscoring the personal connection the display fosters.
Over time, the light show has cemented its place as a cherished annual event for many in the region. Bob Terwilliger reflected on this growing sentiment, stating that “after seven years, we’re seeing people say things like you know this is our tradition.” He added that for numerous families, the show has become a fixed point on their list of seasonal activities, a place they “have to stop at every year,” indicating its evolution into a deeply rooted part of local traditions. Bob Terwilliger expressed his personal conviction regarding the effort, remarking on a life he feels has been “very good” and “very blessed.” For him, “sharing something bright for the community” is “definitely worth it,” highlighting the show’s value beyond mere spectacle.
For those planning to attend the Terwilliger Family Light Show, an important consideration is respecting the local neighborhood. Organizers specifically request that visitors be mindful of nearby residents and utilize designated areas, such as driving down the road, to turn their vehicles around, ensuring smooth traffic flow and minimizing disruption to the surrounding properties.
