In Concord, New Hampshire, during the holiday season, some homes are simply adorned with tiny tots’ eyes aglow, while others boast thousands of blinking lights synchronized to music, spreading cheer and fostering community spirit. In Mesa, Arizona, a cul-de-sac of 14 homeowners has been decorating with extravagant holiday lights for 30 years, a tradition that continues despite changes in real estate ownership. New residents often find attics filled with decorations left behind as a gift from previous owners, creating a festive atmosphere that transcends cultural and religious differences, according to Stephanie Castillo Price. She noted that everyone in the neighborhood can express their holiday traditions, ensuring inclusivity for all passersby.
Similarly, in Santa Clarita, California, the residents of Wakefield Court came together to coordinate their holiday light displays after an earthquake, bringing joy to their community. Now in its 30th year, the Wakefield Winter Wonderland features inflatable figures and wooden cutouts of characters like Mickey Mouse and Homer Simpson. Bryan Cobb, initially hesitant about moving to the neighborhood, shared that his wife’s love for the festive street ultimately led them to make it their home. The close-knit neighborhood bond is evident among all the residents.
In Edmond, Oklahoma, the Miranda family’s intricate holiday light display, inspired by the movie “Wicked,” is a spectacle that draws attention from afar. Elisabeth Miranda handles the programming, while her husband, Mark, focuses on installation, meticulously placing each bulb to create a stunning show. After gaining attention on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” the family received both support and complaints from neighbors, leading them to adjust viewing hours and traffic to accommodate all. This year, they are fundraising for the Oklahoma Fraternal Order of Police to give back to the community.
Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, Laura Walters and Lenny Standish are on a mission to collect 10,000 pairs of socks and underwear for homeless organizations through their holiday display. Starting with a single Christmas tree during the pandemic, the display has grown to include three snow machines, lights, and music, providing a sense of joy and peace for visitors. Their efforts have been met with respect and gratitude from the community.
These heartwarming holiday traditions showcase the power of unity, generosity, and joy during the festive season.
More than 40,000 individuals visit the display of 1.2 million lights created by him every year. “We bring joy to a lot of people,” he expressed. “They stroll around, leaving their problems behind, and simply relish the moment.” Associated Press video journalists Ty ONeil in Las Vegas, Ross Franklin in Arizona, Ron Harris in Georgia, and Marcio Sanchez in California contributed to this report.
