Mark ‘Chumley’ Singer brought Philadelphia together through activism and events

Philadelphia skyscrapers first started illuminating the cityscape in 1987. But the dancing lights on each building weren’t specifically themed or coordinated until 1999, when Mark “Chumley” Singer, who was planning the seventh annual Wawa Welcome America festival, pitched a patriotic color scheme for Independence Day events. Today, Philly’s nighttime skyline is well-known for its matching light displays which often embrace local sports teams, charitable causes and seasonal flair. Singer — an artist and events producer best known for turning his love for the City of Philadelphia and its LGBTQ+ community into happenings now synonymous with local culture and sights — recently died at the age of 65 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Mark ‘Chumley’ Singer. Singer’s legacy is most visible in the light displays that connect Philly to its teams, seasons and special events — but that’s just a small part of his story.

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