Electric Magic: Six Greatest Light Shows Of All Time

Since the 1960s, laser light shows have wowed audiences with highly focused beams of dazzling colors accompanied by music and sound effects. The first laser light shows were performed by rock bands in the 1960s, and following advances in optical technology, light shows moved to theme parks, concert halls and planetariums.

Disney World of Color

Every night in Paradise Bay at Disneyland's California Adventure Park, the World of Color light show projects a laser light display onto 1,200 water fountains that spray in sync with the lights and sound. The show consists of scenes from classic Disney Movies.

Fremont Street Experience

Fremont Street in Las Vegas is host to many light shows, the biggest of which being the Viva Vision laser light show. With 16.7 million high-resolution colors, Viva Vision projects live video onto the largest movie screen in the world. Light shows have rock-and-roll themes, featuring bands like KISS, Queen and Bon Jovi.

A Symphony of Lights

On the other side of the world, in Hong Kong, A Symphony of Lights displays a laser light show against the backdrop of 44 buildings and tourism landmarks. The Guinness Book of World Records named A Symphony of Lights the largest light show in the world in 2005.

Stone Mountain Park

For 30 years, Stone Mountain in Atlanta has hosted a mesmerizing light show projected onto the side of a mountain. The show is set to music amplified by the natural acoustics of the landscape. Features of the show include well-known characters, storytelling, fireworks and 3-D effects

Power Plant Light Show

The Power Plant in Baltimore is the home of retailers such as Barnes and Noble and Hard Rock Cafe. The Holiday Light Show projects laser lights and smoke effects onto the face of the building each night in December. Choreography includes music and fireworks.

Each of these famous light shows strives to outdo itself each new performance. Advances in 3-D and movie special effects have inspired electrician to find new ways to amaze audiences. Watching a computer-synchronized light show with music and fireworks can be a truly moving experience.