Here at Mom Versus the World, we’re head over heels for the magic of DIY outdoor Christmas lights. As the days start to shrink and the nights stretch out, there’s nothing quite like a mesmerizing display of outdoor Christmas lights to sprinkle a dash of festive cheer in your home. But where on earth do you start with DIY Christmas light planning?
First things first, you need to decide on the type of lights you want to use. From the charm of traditional string lights to the uniqueness of custom Christmas lights, there’s a veritable buffet of options to choose from. The pros use an entirely different type of light, most of which can withstand harsher weather and be left in place for years to come with very little maintenance. But this no-fuss method comes with a price, which is par for the course, but you could save a few bucks by DIY’ing with the good stuff, at least half if not more of whatever your estimate was from your local light installers.
I found a great supplier, and I am trying to get them to do a special on my show. It’s their busy season, so maybe next year we will feature them in a holiday light installer coaching session. For now, you can use my affiliate link for a nice discount on your supplies this year, or just use code DubG at checkout.Once you’ve picked out your lights, it’s time to sketch out your display. Are you aiming for a dazzling spectacle that’s visible from the International Space Station or a subtle, understated glow that whispers Christmas? Whatever your preference, planning is the secret ingredient to achieving the desired effect.
DIY GIANT Christmas Light Bulb Decorations
If you’re looking to make a grand statement this Christmas, why not try your hand at DIY giant Christmas light bulb decorations? These oversized decorations are guaranteed to turn heads and bring a touch of festive fun to your outdoor space.
To create these, you’ll need some large plastic balls, a bit of paint, and a bucketful of creativity. Once you’ve painted your balls to resemble giant Christmas light bulbs, you can hang them from trees, line them up along your driveway, or even create a giant Christmas light tutorial for others to follow. It’s a surefire way to make your home the talk of the town.
DIY Outdoor Marquee Lights
Marquee lights are the latest trend, and they’re surprisingly easy to create at home. All you need are some old cardboard letters, string lights, and a healthy dose of patience. Once you’ve crafted your letters, you can arrange them on your lawn or hang them from your porch to create a festive message that’s visible for all to see.
DIY Christmas Light Display
Creating a DIY Christmas light display is a fantastic way to bring the Christmas spirit outdoors. Whether you choose to create a dazzling light show that rivals the Northern Lights or a simple, elegant display that exudes class, the key is to let your creativity run wild.
One idea is to use Christmas light clips to hang your lights in unique patterns or shapes. Alternatively, you could create lighted gift boxes or even lighted snowman decor. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I hang outdoor Christmas lights like a pro?
To hang outdoor Christmas lights like a pro, start by planning your display. Decide where you want to hang your lights and measure the area to determine how many lights you’ll need. Use Christmas light clips to securely attach your lights to your house, trees, or other structures. Always test your lights before hanging them to ensure they all work.
What are some creative DIY Christmas light decoration ideas?
Some creative DIY Christmas light decoration ideas include making giant Christmas light bulb decorations, creating a DIY outdoor marquee light display, or crafting custom Christmas lights for a unique look. You could also try making snowball lanterns, ice luminaries, or lighted gift boxes for a festive touch.
How can I make my outdoor Christmas lights more festive?
To make your outdoor Christmas lights more festive, consider adding some DIY Christmas light decorations to your display. This could include lighted gift boxes, a lighted snowman, or even a DIY Christmas light display. You could also use different colored lights or flashing lights for a more festive feel.
What are some DIY Christmas Lights Decorating Ideas?
Create a lighted pathway. I line my garden beds and driveway by placing lights on the edges and using ground stakes.
I make a lighted wreath with fresh white pine, green arborvitae, and battery-operated fairy lights each year.
A DIY Christmas light tree using a tomato cage is an easy way to add some wow to those plain old icicle lights hanging from your leaf-stuffed gutters every year.
Make your own lighted ornaments and create a lighted Christmas scene in your yard. I just bought a 12-pack of battery-operated fairy lights for $7.99 on Amazon. Those are super versatile and can be used in so many cool ways.
How Do Professional Light Installers Get Lights So Perfect?
To keep your Christmas lights in place, like the pros do, you have to use Christmas light straps like the ones available at Christmas Light Contractors USA. These tools are like the secret behind all of the epic holiday lights that you look at and just say “WOW”. They can be attached to a variety of surfaces, like tree trunks or columns, making it easy to hang your lights exactly where you want them and making them effortlessly symmetrical for those perfect candy cane column designs Ive always wanted to do. You’re welcome.
You could also use hot glue or painter’s tape to secure your lights, but be sure to test these methods on a small area first to ensure they won’t damage your surfaces or your lights. The newer mini lights are not braided wires; they are thin, single strands, two of them side-by-side, more fragile than they used to be, but the light count is also much higher. I haven’t yet tested hot glue on them and I don’t think I’m going to. But hey, let me know if you win or lose.
How This Divorcee Became an Illumination Wizard with Outdoor Shooting Star Christmas Lights
Well, slap my extension cords and call me Kris Kringle; it’s time to slap up those holiday lights and this year I’m including my infamous outdoor shooting star Christmas lights. But this struggling single mom of 2.5 kids (don’t ask about the half) has gotta figure out how to bedazzle the crap outta my modest middle-class home on a shoestring budget.
Gear Up for Dazzling Displays
I may not have enough money left to hire one of those fancy-schmancy professional installers after Mr. Ex cleaned out my accounts, but between Pinterest fails and YouTube University (aka the School of Hard Knocks), I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks over the years, which got me a seat next to the pros this year.
So get ready to step into DubG’s decked-out debauchery, where I’ll be laying down more hot glue gun burns than sick beats as I transform this boring brick box into a glitzy Griswold family Christmas special. Just call me DubG-it-Yourself!
Safety First for Dazzling Displays
Alright, before we get jingling, the first rule of DubG’s Dazzling Displays is safety first. We don’t need any trips to the ER for “accidents” related to too much eggnog while balancing on the roof. I’ve already maxed out my health insurance with all the therapy bills!
So put down the spiked cocoa and let’s focus on not reenacting those wacky Griswold family moments. I may be the queen of DIY dollars, but medical bills are one accessory I can’t afford!
Must-Have Gear for Bedazzling
Now, for those basic bitches who have never bedazzled a bush before, here’s my handy checklist of must-have GEAR for professional-ish level illumination:
✔️ MEASURING TAPE How else will you know how many feet of lights to buy in bulk? Take it from me, there’s nothing more depressing than stringing up strands only to come two candy canes short. I found this calculator that will help you understand how many lights and feet you will need based on your measurements and it’s super cool.
✔️ HEAVY DUTY OUTDOOR EXTENSION CORDS The last thing you need to do is overload an outlet and send Santa straight down the chimney into a pile of ashes! Safety doesn’t take holidays off.
✔️ CLIPS & FASTENERS Channel your inner McGyver and let there be light with zip ties, binder clips, hot glue, etc. Nails and tacks are amateur hour.
✔️ TIMERS Set it and forget it! Nobody likes freezing their jingle bells off and fumbling with tangled cords in the dark.
✔️ GFCI ADAPTERS Water and electricity don’t mix well, unless you’re trying to pull a Frankenstein. Protect your strands so you don’t end up fried like my Thanksgiving turkey!
And most important of all:
✔️ THE BUDDY SYSTEM Doing it solo leads to injuries, and if that naughty neighbor catches you taking a tumble off the ladder, you know that footage is going viral faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve!
5 Golden Rules for Griswold-Worthy Glam:
DITCH THE RETAIL CRAP Big box baloney is for basic bitches. They may proclaim “commercial grade,” but those lies are fa-la-la-la-fake news! Hit up our favorite supplier, Christmas Light Contractors, and use code DubG to get quality that will out-sparkle and outlast anything the seasonal aisle can supply.
STRAP THOSE BABIES TIGHT No one likes saggy balls—I mean bulbs! As a new divorcee, I live by the words “Ya gotta keep it tight” in more ways than one. I recently discovered the pro installer’s secret weapon at Christmas Lights Contractors USA by putting my nose where it didn’t belong (as usual). So skip the clips and strap it on, baby. For that perfectly straight line or spiral up the trunk and down the column, use code “DubG” or click the link to order your strap on—I mean “Wrap Straps” with our discount code.
MIND THE GAPS Consistency is key. Alternate the light sizes and shapes instead of clumping. Fill in dark spots for balanced dazzle distribution. This ain’t distributed evenly
PLOT YOUR PATH Diagram where each strand will snake around so you don’t end up tangled like last year’s tree lights that are still a rat’s nest in the attic. Professionalism = planning and this really inappropriate blog I slapped together is proof in the pudding.
And voilà! Just stick to DubG’s 5 Golden Rules and you’ll have the brightest, boldest, mistle-braggable masterpiece on the block!
Crafty Pro Tips and Tinsel Hacks
Just in case you need a little more holiday magic, here are my crafty pro tips and tinsel hacks:
★ Hot glue gun everything to the MAX. That shit will stick candy canes to candy asses!
★ Sick of untangling last year’s lights? Just chop off the end and splice those babies onto some fresh strands! Customization on a budget, baby. But don’t forget to unplug one of them, like I did. Look out, Clark, there’s a new cover girl in town!
★ Wrap ordinary dollar store gift ribbons around those outdoor cords and tree trunks for an instant bejeweled makeover without the heating bill!
★ Adopt the (Griswold) family truckster aesthetic with some greenery garlands and holly berry bundles zip-tied into the exterior lights. Instant Clark Family XmasTM!
★ Take inspiration from Cousin Eddie’s festive Hawaiian shirt for those inflatable lawn ornaments everyone loves to hate. A little kitschy is key!
Shoot for the Stars Like DubG
Last but not least, my personal favorite and the center of my masterpiece, the shooting star! This space cadet mama is about to skip the rocket science and break down how to install meteoric magic with some celestial shooting star lights!
Step 1: Live Your Star Wars Fantasy Picture it: strings of LED lights cascading down in a meteor shower while Chewy and Han Solo race the Millennium Falcon across your roof. Transport your padawans to a galaxy far, far away…
Step 2: Safety First My Jedi Use the force of your common sense. Secure that ladder and enlist your tallest teen to help avoid tumbles from the dark side. No one wants to spend Christmas in a bacta tank!
Step 3: Location, Location, Location Map your galactic perimeter for optimal interstellar splendor. The roof is perfect for mimicking meteoric magnificence, but they also look supernova on trees, which is where I put them—the side of the house, really any location where even Nicholas Braun would have to look straight up to see. Diagram your cosmic masterpiece!
Step 4: It’s All About the Clips, Baby Yoda The higher the clips, the longer your shooting stream will appear. Space them out vertically by at least five feet. For extra pizazz, intersperse some standard bulbs between clips.
Step 5: Living on a Prayer to the Outlet Gods Pray you measured right for the cord length and have an outlet within the forcefield. Consider a handy outdoor outlet splitter just in case power runs short for your lightspeed lineup.
Step 6: Program Your Stars to Dazzle Most shooting star strands come with built-in timers and effects for intermittent illumination. Play around with the settings until you conjure up the quasar-quality sparkle you crave.
Step 7: Stand Back and Admire Your Skills, Jedi Master Gaze in wonder at your astronomical, awe-inspiring amateur achievement. Just be careful not to stare directly into the plasma rays for too long. No one needs their retinas roasted on Christmas!
With just a dash of creativity, blinky bulbs, and good-ole resourceful stubbornness, this snarky single mom embellished her way to victory over the basic bitches. Now I’ve just got to hope ex-husband Clint’s envy doesn’t drive him into hijacking my decor and hijinks like deranged cousin Eddie.
But if you do catch that Grinch trying to grinch his way into stealing Christmas, just blast a little “Mele Kalikimaka” and watch him dash away faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve!
Happy decorating, ya filthy animals! This is DubG, signing off before the egg nog sends me sledding off the roof…again.
Christmas has always been more than just a holiday for me; it’s a season of genuine joy and warmth. Far removed from the commercial frenzy and the clamor of big-box retailers, it’s about a deeper, more heartfelt connection. This connection, rooted in cherished memories and traditions, is what truly embodies the spirit of Christmas—a spirit that lives on in our hearts forever. Whoever coined the phrase ‘all that glitters is not gold’ clearly never experienced New Jersey during the Christmas season. As someone who has played both Santa and recipient in the dance of holiday giving, I’ve felt the enchantment firsthand. There’s something undeniably magical about the way the Tri-State area comes alive with festive lights. Each twinkle seems to tell a story—a whisper of the Christmas spirit weaving through towns and touching hearts. It’s a time when every light seems to glimmer with memories and the promise of joy, reflecting the true essence of what I’ve always believed Christmas to be.
Alright, Snap Out of It—Let’s You and I Go Get Lit!
After soaking in all that heartwarming, twinkly light nostalgia, let’s cut through the mushy stuff and dive into the real deal—New Jersey’s most dazzling Christmas light shows. Because, let’s face it, nothing says holiday spirit quite like a million watts of electric joy lighting up the night sky.
So, let’s put aside the sentimental reflections (before we start sounding like a Hallmark card) and check out the best and brightest spots in the Garden State. From the eye-popping, jaw-dropping displays to the more understated but equally charming lights, we’ve got a line-up that’ll make you forget all about your electricity bill for a moment.
Here are my top five, not-to-be-missed, ‘light up your holiday season‘ picks, followed by 29 other sparkling gems. Think of it as my tribute to ‘Miracle on 34th Street”—but with more LEDs and less Kris Kringle. Grab your coat, your sense of wonder (and maybe a portable charger), and let’s light up this holiday tour!
DubG’s Top 5: “It’s My Prerogative”
#1 George’s House: Christmas Vacation in Real Life!
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The first stop on our tour is George’s House in Mullica Hill. What began as an homage to the Griswold family’s over-the-top Christmas decorations and Steve Harbaugh’s late father, who passed just a few short weeks after Christmas 2017, has drawn crowds so big that he and his family had to move out of respect for the neighbors. It’s like stepping into a scene from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”, chaos included. You can almost hear Chevy Chase’s laughter echoing.
#2 Harbaugh Village: A Christmas Town Like It’s Straight Out of a Sugarplum Fairy Tale
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In 2021, due to the popularity of this must-see destination and out of respect for the neighbors, Steve and Pamela Harbaugh made the decision to move out of their Mickleton family home. The Harbaugh family moved their humble abode (not really humble; it’s pretty sick, actually) from Mickleton, NJ, to a beautiful home in a neighboring town, Mullica Hill.
I can only assume that for a family this size, in a home of that size, it was not an easy decision. But I guess they thought they might as well just go big or go home. So, that is exactly what they did—big, really big, a ridiculously over-the-top extravaganza! That’s my jam.
George’s house, the shrine of all things Christmas Vacation, was now bigger and better than ever, but to top it off, Steve Harbaugh also built what is now known as Harbaugh Village, New Jersey’s seemingly coolest holiday destination. Who knew… a Christmas village right here in my home state!
Harbaugh Village, a Christmas town that looks like it sprang right out of a storybook, offers ice skating, igloo rentals with a full bar and wait staff, fire pits, and—wait for it—Snowball Zone. It’s a holly-jolly mix of childhood dreams and adult indulgences, which for me are pretty much the same thing. I think I might move into an igloo for a few months while I wait for some big check advertisers to take a chance on little ole’ DubG, which will solve at least some of my debt divorce woes and maybe even allow Santa to visit this year on Christmas morning. But until then, I heard the igloos are heated and I’ll just give up food for a few weeks to get my kids the socks they asked for this year.
I know I joke a lot on this blog, but I’m not even kidding. My kids asked for socks. They also beg me to cook them broccoli, so I guess I’m doing something right after all.
More about this festive village at
#3 DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express: All Aboard, The Train Is Leaving the Station!
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Next up is DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express in Hammonton. There’s something timeless about a holiday train ride, isn’t there? It’s a journey wrapped in lights, laughter, and the excitement of children.
My oldest sister and her family, her hubby, a retired police detective serving 20 years in the community of Hammonton, and three boys, who I should probably be referring to as young men now (dammit, I’m old), all live down there in their white picket fence house.
Although the 18-mile post-parkway backcountry, middle-of-nowhere drive wasn’t my favorite, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in another dimension every time we went down there. It’s a quaint little town because, and I say quaint because there are no other words to describe this twilight zone feeling I get when I’m there, much like I imagine a real-life Stepford Wife lives.
I’m confident enough to say that I believe it’s likely that every single parent in this town belongs to the PTA and actually attends the meetings because they want to, not because they have to, every single time.
Yep, it’s that kind of town. A town where I stick out like Marisa Tomei in the cult classic My Cousin Vinny So, you can probably imagine how special this holiday train ride really is, so go choo-choo your way through the town, into the Christmas spirit or just grab a spirit at the local pub to deal with all of the perfect people there. Either way, you can get more info here.
Hey everyone, get ready to rev up your holiday spirit with Skylands Stadium‘s dazzling drive-thru light show! This isn’t just any festive display; it’s a one-mile journey through over two million twinkling lights. Talk about turning Sussex County into a winter wonderland!
Now, let’s talk logistics. You gotta snag your tickets in advance, with time slots going for $29 on select days. Feeling fancy? There’s an ‘anytime’ ticket for $79 per person. A bit steep for my wallet, but hey, for a one-time holiday extravaganza, it might just be worth it.
But wait, there’s more than just a light show. Step into their Christmas Village, where holiday magic comes alive. Picture this: you, your fam, and Santa Claus in one epic holiday photo. Got some last-minute shopping? Their holiday vendors have got you covered and your wallet smothered! And for the adults? A Winter Beer Garden, because nothing says ‘festive’ like a cold one in hand. Meh… I like a full bar. Beer gives me gas.
Don’t forget the treats! We’re talking roasting s’mores by the fire pit, warming up with hot cocoa and coffee, and indulging in holiday treats and special seasonal food. Ice cream in winter? Why not! Skyland Stadium’s got the eats to make your holiday outing complete.
So, if you’re in the mood for a light show that’s more than just a drive-thru, Skyland Stadium is your go-to spot. Lights, Santa, snacks, and maybe a beer or two?
Sounds like a holiday plan to me!
#5 Winter Wonderlights: A Radiant Display of Merriment (East Brunswick, NJ)
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Alright, folks, let me take you on a little tour of what holiday cheer looks like in the Garden State. For over 20 years, there’s this family that’s been lighting up the Middlesex County Fair Grounds like nobody’s business. Winter WonderLights isn’t your average neighborhood string-up; we’re talking a whopping 1.5 million lights, choreographed to those holiday tunes we all pretend to get tired of. Picture this: you’re cruising through 30-foot Christmas trees and tunnels that feel like you’ve stepped into a festive sci-fi movie, all while saluting the real MVPs—our first responders and armed forces.
And guess who’s crashing this light party? Dave’s Delicious Fries Food Truck serves up fries that’ll make you forget about counting calories, or at least wish you could forget. Sure, they’re just along for the ride, but hey, no one ever said no to tasty fries while basking in the holiday glow, right?
Or is that just me?
This Winter WonderLights spectacle is more than just a light show; it’s a mash-up of Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Kwanzaa—all in a half-mile joyride. Open every single day for your viewing pleasure, this year’s got even more eye candy with brand new displays. So, if you’re looking to jazz up your holiday evenings, you know where the party’s at.
Tickets and even VIP season passes are available HERE. Oo-la-la fancy pants.
What Else You Got In That Sack Santa?
(No, Not That Sack, the Other One ! )
Magic of Lights at the PNC Bank Arts Center (Holmdel, Monmouth County): More Info
Martel’s Christmas Wonderland (Trenton, Mercer County): More Info
Weber Family Lights (East Brunswick, Middlesex County): More Info
Christmas at the Nietzer’s (South Plainfield, Middlesex County): More Info
Crazy Christmas Lights (Old Bridge, Middlesex County): More Info
Cranbury Christmas Lights (Cranbury, Middlesex County): More Info
Kloos Family Lights (East Brunswick, Middlesex County)
Andrew’s Christmas Wonderland (North Middletown, Monmouth County): More Info
Christmas in Holmdel (Holmdel, Monmouth County): More Info
The Gress House Holiday Light Spectacular (Union Beach, Monmouth County)
Johnny’s Hazlet Holiday Light Extravaganza (Hazlet, Monmouth County): More Info
Liam’s Spectacular Christmas Display (Middletown, Monmouth County): More Info
MacCary Christmas (Ocean, Monmouth County): More Info
Murphy Road Light Show (Port Monmouth, Monmouth County): More Info
Sisti Family Christmas Lights (Spring Lake, Monmouth County): More Info
Sims Holiday Lights (Spring Lake Heights, Monmouth County): More Info
The Christmas Lights Show (Belmar, Monmouth County): More Info
Lights on Glendale (Manalapan Twp., Monmouth County): More Info
Christmas Light Spectacular (Wall Township, Monmouth County): More Info</
Personal Reflection: The True Magic of Christmas
“As I journey through New Jersey’s kaleidoscope of Christmas lights, it’s more than just a visual feast. It’s a poignant throwback to those years of quietly spreading joy, adopting a star from the church’s Christmas tree each year—a tradition my mother, with all her complexities, passed down to me. It’s about the silent yet powerful moments of surprise, relief, and heartfelt gratitude from the families we helped. This ritual of giving, ingrained in my being, taught me the unparalleled joy of generosity, far surpassing any material gift.
All my life, I’ve dreamt of sharing this tradition with my children, to pass on the invaluable lesson of selfless giving—the kind where you expect nothing in return but the warmth of genuine kindness.
Yet, this year, the tables have turned. I’m on the side, needing a hand—a stark reminder of the true value of compassion and assistance. It’s a humbling shift but one that deepens my belief in the Christmas spirit. It’s not the grand lights or the lavish gifts that define this season. It’s about creating moments of joy and being a beacon of hope in someone else’s challenging times.”
Conclusion: Embracing the Season’s Spirit
As we immerse ourselves in New Jersey’s magnificent light displays, let’s hold on to the true spirit of Christmas. Let’s be a part of someone else’s holiday joy, just as these lights brighten ours. Whether it’s continuing my mother’s legacy of adopting a star or just sharing a warm smile with someone you’ve never met, every act of kindness and empathy makes a difference.
Christmas in New Jersey and New York transcends the festive lights and jingles. It’s an emotion—a feeling that lingers. In the end, the brightest lights aren’t those strung up on trees or houses; they’re the ones we ignite in each other’s lives through small acts of love and kindness.
Happy Holidays, everyone!
From Wendy, Kid 1 & Kid 2 (the names we shall never speak of), Jackson (the notorious sock-burying culprit) and even Mr. Ex Green, because it’s Christmas after-all
May your holidays overflow with jolly ole’ belly laughs, a touch of peanut butter whiskey magic, and a sock or two rescued from Jackson’s treasure trove. I wish you a season sprinkled with joy, merriment, and the kind of festive fun that keeps our spirits bright. Cheers !
Hey there, holiday aficionados! It’s DubG from Mom Versus the World, and today I’m diving headfirst into a yuletide adventure like no other. Grab your homemade eggnog, ladies and gentlemen, as we explore a real-life spectacle inspired by the iconic “National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.” This isn’t just any Christmas town; it’s a Griswold Christmas come to life, right here in my own backyard, in the heart of New Jersey!
Turning Tragedy into a Yuletide Triumph
So, here’s a little heart-tugger behind the Harbaughs’ lit-up wonderland. Picture this: it’s 2017, and Steve Harbaugh loses his dad just a couple of weeks after Christmas. Talk about a rough holiday, right? But instead of letting grief get the best of him, Steve, with his wife Gina, decides to channel that sorrow into something, dare I say, spectacular.
“We’re gonna have the hap, hap, happiest Christmas.” -Clark Griswold
From One Strand to a Full-Blown Village
What started as a single strand of Christmas lights—a nod to his dad’s love for the holidays—morphed into this jaw-dropping Christmas village under the Mullica Hill water tower. And let me tell you, it’s not your average festive display. We’re talking about a transformation from a regular house in Mickleton, NJ, to a full-scale “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” homage. It’s like Steve took Clark Griswold’s energy and cranked it up to eleven. You can learn more about this unbelievable Christmas village in NJ in my in-depth article here.
Harbaugh Village: The Ultimate Holiday Tribute
In 2021, the house moved from Mickleton to Mullica Hill and built a Christmas village to top off the experience with a holy jolly hoo! This isn’t just a tribute to a classic holiday movie; it’s a living, breathing celebration of Steve’s dad’s (George) memory and a testament to turning a not-so-jolly holiday memory into something that brings joy to, well, everyone.
Harbaugh Village: Where Christmas Gets Real (and Hilariously Bright)
Okay, folks, Harbaugh Village isn’t just your average “deck the halls” kind of place. It’s like Christmas threw up in the most heartwarming way possible. It’s not just about rehashing the laughs from “Christmas Vacation” (though, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good giggle at Clark Griswold’s expense?). This place is about making new memories that are so sweet they could give you a toothache and honoring the old ones that make you go, “Aww, remember when…?” Plus, it’s the perfect spot to spread that holiday cheer we’re all desperately Googling how to find.
A Griswold Christmas on Steroids
Ever seen “Christmas Vacation”? Of course, you have; you’re a person of culture. Now, picture Clark Griswold’s insane light display. Got it? Great. Now, imagine that in your backyard, but like, on steroids. The Harbaugh family in New Jersey are basically the Griswolds’ long-lost cousins, turning their home into a holiday spectacle that makes Clark’s efforts look like child’s play. And yes, I’m totally serious!
Chevy Chase, Eat Your Heart Out
Let’s chat about the legend himself, Chevy Chase. His role as Clark Griswold in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is the stuff of holiday movie marathons. And guess what? The Harbaughs in New Jersey are bringing that same zany, light-up-your-life energy to their own display. It’s like walking into your favorite “Cousin Eddie” scene, but without the awkward family interactions.
Living the Griswold Dream
In Harbaugh Village, Clark Griswold’s spirit isn’t just flickering in the Christmas lights; it’s in the air we breathe. It’s more than just a dazzling display; it’s a stroll down memory lane, with a side of Chevy Chase’s comedic brilliance. It’s like the best lines from “Christmas Vacation” are whispering in the wind, making you chuckle and think, “Man, this is what Christmas is all about.” So, grab your eggnog, folks, and let’s live a little Griswold-style! 🎄✨
Santa Claus Is Comin’ to This Town
And speaking of iconic Christmas figures, let’s not forget the big man himself, Santa Claus. Though he’s been around since well before the “Santa Claus is Comin to Town 1970” movie, here in this festive village, he gets a Griswold-style makeover. It’s a blend of traditional holiday cheer with a pinch of “National Christmas Lampoon” flair.
Where “Christmas Vacation” Quotes Aren’t Just for Your Ugly Sweater
Visiting Harbaugh’s winter wonderland is like stepping into a world where every “Christmas Vacation” quote has come to life. Picture this: you’re wandering through a snowy paradise, and bam! There’s a Clark Griswold zinger on a sign next to a giant inflatable reindeer. It’s the perfect mix of holiday spirit and the kind of humor that makes your eggnog come out of your nose.
“Shitter’s full!” – Cousin Eddie
Harbaugh’s Spectacle: The Underdog of Christmas Displays
Think of Busch Gardens as Christmas Town. Got it? Great. Now, shrink it down, add a dash of Griswold family chaos, and you’ve got Harbaugh’s spectacle. It’s like the indie film version of a Christmas display—smaller, quirkier, but with a cult following that would make any big-budget attraction jealous.
Chevy Chase Xmas Vacation: A Cultural Phenomenon
Chevy Chase’s National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon, and the Harbaughs’ display is a testament to its enduring popularity. From “Eddie from Vacation” appearances to “Griswold Clark” antics, it’s a tribute that resonates with fans of all ages.
Embracing the Griswold Family’s Spirit
The true essence of the “National Lampoons Christmas Vacation” experience at Harbaugh’s isn’t just in the grandeur of the lights or the meticulous details; it’s in the spirit. The way this “Christmas town” brings people together, evoking laughter and joy reminiscent of “Clark Griswold Christmas Vacation,” is what makes it truly special.
“You serious, Clark?” – Cousin Eddie
A Visit to Remember
As I plan my visit to this “National Christmas Vacation” spectacle, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and wonder. Will I bump into a “Cousin Eddie”? Or perhaps recite some lines from Christmas Vacation with fellow fans? One thing’s for sure: it’s going to be a memorable trip to this unique Christmas village.
A Blend of Humor and Tradition
The Harbaugh’s “Griswold Christmas” display is more than lights and props. It’s a blend of humor, tradition, and a sense of community that’s hard to find anywhere else, more so now than ever. It’s a place where “Santa Claus 1970” nostalgia meets modern-day holiday cheer.
Join Me on This Festive Adventure
As I gear up for this “Christmas holiday vacation,” I extend an invitation to you, my readers. Join me in celebrating the season in true “Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” style. Who knows, maybe we’ll get to live out some of our favorite “Christmas Vacation sayings” together! It’s free to see the house, but general admission for Harbaugh Village is $19.95, plus a whole bunch of other cool stuff. Check out my full post about the destination HERE.
From all of us at Mom Versus The World, we’re sending wishes for a holiday season filled with as much laughter and joy as a Griswold family gathering. And speaking of the Griswold’s, I’m in a bit of a Clark Griswold situation here—the holiday bonus didn’t quite pan out this year. But don’t worry, I’m not planning any harebrained schemes to make up for it—at least not yet!
Now, if you’re feeling generous this holiday season and want to support Mom Versus the World, there are a couple of ways to do it. Fancy helping us out with a visit to the ‘Clark Griswold Christmas Experience’? That would be awesome! Or, if you’re in the market for some high-quality, budget-friendly outdoor living goodies, check out one of our earliest supporters, E Oak. They’ve got great stuff straight from the manufacturer—perfect for anyone feeling a little ‘broker than broke’ this year. Your support would mean the world to us, and it’s a great way to enjoy the holiday season in style.
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