CHARLOTTE (Jan. 8, 2025) – For the sixth year, the South End portion of the Rail Trail will be illuminated with never-before-seen light installations from February 7-23. Rail Trail Lights 2025 is presented by U.S. Bank. Rail Trail Lights is free, fun for all ages, and open to the public. Nine art installations will line the Rail Trail from Atherton to the Bland St. Light Rail Station, coming to life after the sun sets each night of theevent. “U.S. Bank is proud to be the presenting sponsor of Rail Trail Lights for the sixth straight year,” said John Smith, the Charlotte district manager for U.S. Bank. “It’s been wonderful to see this event grow and flourish as it has become a fixture on the city’s calendar every year. We can’t wait to see the amazing creations the artists will bring to life this year, and we are grateful to Charlotte Center City Partners for once again producing such a memorable event.” This year, the Charlotte Center City Partners team commissioned local, public artist Meredith Connelly to create Golden Threads, an immersive art walk featuring nine installations that explore and celebrate the beauty of nature. Each installation will complement the story and design of the piece before it, as attendees can stroll the length of the event for a cohesive experience. “Each installation honors the deep wisdom woven into natural designs; the way patterns, structures, and resilience in nature guide and inspire us, shaping everything from textile traditions to technological breakthroughs,” Connelly said in a statement describing the inspiration behind Golden Threads. Connelly subcontracted 11 local artists to support the fabrication and installation of each art piece. Each artist received hands-on opportunities, training and mentorship throughout the process to help support their professional development. Connelly’s past public art installations include Lights (2019 and 2020) at the U.S. National Whitewater Center and Fairy Ring from Rail Trail Lights 2022, now a permanent piece at Atherton in South End. Her installations have traveled to Charleston, S.C. and Nashville, T.N., with recent commissions such as Clustered, a permanent outdoor installation in Nashville’s Wedgewood Houston area. “Rail Trail Lights is a great time for residents and visitors to explore the neighborhood in a new way,” said Aisha Sabur, the South End Director at Charlotte Center City Partners. “This event helps illuminate the Rail Trail during a time of year where the sun sets early, and community members might be looking for some extra joy. Plus, it’s a great way for local artists to get involved with the community.” During Rail Trail Lights, visitors can enjoy one-of-a-kind art pieces, grab a bite to eat or drink, and do it all again the next day. Rail Trail Lights is perfect for those who are looking for a family-friendly outing, a perfect Insta-pic, a fun and free date night, or something extra special on their usual Rail Trail route.