Devin, 6, turned with a smile and gave his mom a high five as multicolored lights bounced off the pins he had just overturned.

Marie Avila and her son were enjoying a game of glow bowling at the Quantico Bowling Center on Aug. 8, 2013. Glow bowling modifies the regular game by incorporating lights that cause certain colors to “glow” while creating a fun atmosphere with revolving multicolored lights and upbeat music.

“I think it’s a great environment,” said Avila. “It’s a great way for my son and I to spend time together before school starts.”

Since June 20, the center has offered glow bowling every Thursday at a discounted rate. Open to all who can access the base, the $9 special includes shoes and as many games as a participant wants to play from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“It gives people an alternative to other summer activities, especially during nasty weather,” said Mark McNulty, assistant manager, Quantico Bowling Center. “It gets people out of the house.”

The 12-lane facility, equipped with a pro-shop and snack bar, provides bowlers with an opportunity that others can’t.

“We are one-third of the size of some facilities, but have more lights than they do,” said Jon Blanton, manager, Quantico Bowling Center. “Our glow bowl package is better than any other bowling facility in the area by far.”

In addition to offering glow bowl every Thursday and Saturday, the center offers other bowling opportunities as well.

“We have other specials, intramural bowling and several leagues including those for mixed teams and youth,” said McNulty.

Among their specials, the center is hosting a family night Aug. 23, where participants can bowl two games and rent shoes for $5.

Located in the basement of Little Hall, the center is currently open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Those interested can check the center’s website for hours of operation.

“We host unit functions and specials all the time,” said Blanton. “We have a nice facility and give good value for the cost.”

For information on the bowling center, visit www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org or call 703-784-2210.

Correspondent: samuel.l.ellis@usmc.mil