DIY Outdoor Christmas Lights: A Guide to Beautiful Christmas Outdoor Lighting

DIY Outdoor Christmas Lights: A Guide to Beautiful Christmas Outdoor Lighting

DIY Outdoor Christmas Lights Planning

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?Dubg's diy outdoor christmas lights

    1. Create a lighted pathway. I line my garden beds and driveway by placing lights on the edges and using ground stakes.
    2. I make a lighted wreath with fresh white pine, green arborvitae, and battery-operated fairy lights each year.
    3. 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.
    4. 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 Broke-Ass Divorcée Installed Outdoor Shooting Star Christmas Lights Like a Pro

How This Broke-Ass Divorcée Installed Outdoor Shooting Star Christmas Lights Like a Pro

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:

  1. 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.
  2. FOCUS ON KEY AREAS Trying to light up the whole hood is how Clark Griswold ended up Face-Timing with Santa through some questionable hallucinations. Start small: just the trees, wreaths, and perimeter lighting around windows and doors to outline the house. Build up the spectacle over the years. Rome wasn’t illuminated overnight!
  3. 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.   
  4. 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
  5. 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!Diy xmas light tips

★ 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!Outdoor shooting star christmas lights illustration

  1. 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…
  2. 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!
  3. 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!
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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!

It’s a Wrap! 

There you have it: DubG’s Divine Diagram for Defying DIY Disasters This Holiday Season! Add a bit of snowfall to your design with this handy pack here

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.

Jingle bell hell, here I come!

Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: The Unbelievable #1 Must-See Real-Life Spectacle in New Jersey This Year

Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: The Unbelievable #1 Must-See Real-Life Spectacle in New Jersey This Year

Introduction

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 DreamCousin eddie from christmas vacation

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

 

“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 PhenomenonThe iconic station wagon from national lampoon's christmas vacation

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. 

Where to Watch It the Movie 

You can watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation on AppleTV , Fawesome (free),  MaxROW8, or Prime Video. 

Conclusion

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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Ho Ho Ho-ld Up: The #1 Christmas Village in NJ That’s Unapologetically Over-the-Top!

Ho Ho Ho-ld Up: The #1 Christmas Village in NJ That’s Unapologetically Over-the-Top!

Ho Ho Ho-ld Up: There is a Christmas Village in NJ Hosting A Night With the Real Clark Griswold?

Alright, folks, let’s shimmy down the chimney into a Christmas tale that’s as heartwarming as a mug of hot cocoa on a frosty winter’s night, about a Christmas village in NJ. Imagine stumbling upon a hidden city of gold under the sea, but instead of gold, it’s twinkling lights and festive cheer. Harbaugh Village, nestled on Bridgeton Pike in Mulica Hill, NJ, is this season’s best-kept secret, rivaling the lost city of Atlantis in its hidden splendor.

Born from a home in the town that quickly put it on the map—an homage to the great Clark Griswold and cult classics like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation—this village isn’t just a tribute—it’s a full-blown holiday extravaganza. It’s the kind of place where you half-expect elves to pop out, offering you gingerbread cookies.

Christmas has always been my jam, folks. As a kid, the season was about spreading joy and anonymously donating toys to families in need through our church’s adopt a star tree. Fast forward to now, and I’m on the other side of that giving chain, a place I never imagined I would end up and the reason why I pour my heart and soul into this blog every day, every night.  Every click, every read, and every purchase through our affiliate links is more than just support—it’s a sprinkle of that Christmas magic I’m trying to keep alive for my kids, who are only 8 and 10.

So, you’re here, reading this—kudos for finding the coolest holiday scoop on the block! It’s so outrageously good, you’ll probably want to blast it across every social media channel you’ve got. I mean, why keep this gem to yourself, right? Share the love, spread the cheer, and let’s make this the talk of the town!

The Christmas Light Bulb Moment

Five years ago, a single strand of Christmas lights sparked an idea in the minds of real estate developer Steve Harbaugh and his wife Gina. Today, that idea has blossomed into an entire village that twinkles brighter than Rudolph’s nose and spreads Christmas cheer faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve.

From a Strand of Lights to a Village of Joy

Imagine this: a once undeveloped field under the Mullica Hill water tower on Route 77, now transformed into a year-round holiday attraction. It’s like the Grinch’s heart, it just grew three sizes! But instead of just being filled with decorations, this village is brimming with love, laughter, and a whole lot of giving.

The Village That Gives All Year Round

Now, you might be thinking, “A Christmas village that’s open all year round? What kind of Christmas sorcery is this?” Well, let me tell you, it’s the kind that turns tragedies into triumphs and spreads joy like confetti.

After the passing of his father, George, Steve Harbaugh decided to turn his grief into something positive. He created Harbaugh Village, a place that not only celebrates Christmas but also helps families in need. It’s like Santa’s workshop, but instead of just making toys, they’re making a difference.

Clark Griswold Himself Lights Up A Christmas Village In NJ: A Blogger’s Daydream

Disclaimer: I have zero ties with Harbaugh Village, George’s House, National Lampoons, or Chevy Chase, but if I did, I’d probably be mayor of Harbaugh Village by now.

Mark your calendars, folks! December 3, 2023, is not just any Sunday; it’s the day Harbaugh Village becomes the epicenter of holiday cheer, with Chevy Chase himself flipping the switch. Yes, THE Chevy Chase, a.k.a. Clark Griswold, is the king of holiday mishaps. He’s gracing Harbaugh Village for their tree lighting, a Q&A (where I’d ask, “How do you survive Christmas with the in-laws?”), and VIP house lighting that’s more exclusive than my grandma’s secret snickerdoodle recipe.

But here’s the plot twist: tickets have been sold out for over a month! It’s like trying to get the last piece of pie at a family gathering—impossible. The Village wraps up its holiday extravaganza on December 31st, taking a well-deserved break on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

As for me? I’m just over here, counting my pennies and daydreaming about taking my kids to see this dream Xmas destination, sipping peanut butter whiskey by our personal fire pit or igloo, battling my son at the “Snowball Zone” (if it’s as cool as I imagine), and maybe, just maybe, not falling on my face at the ice rink.

If anyone’s got a spare ticket or two (or a secret stash of Christmas cash) , let me know—my kids and I would be forever grateful! Unless it’s a Christmas miracle and you are the 1 millionth reader of this blog post, it’s going to be a tough Christmas this year, so don’t forget to share it with all your friends!!

OK, with that said, let’s get into it!

Harbaugh Village: Not Just a Winter Wonderland

You’d think a place like Harbaugh Village would be all about snowflakes and reindeer games, right? Wrong! This place is a four-season extravaganza. They’ve got moreWinter wonderland in nj than just your average twinkling lights; they’ve got a whole village that screams “Christmas” louder than a kid opening a new gaming console on Christmas morning.

Turning Tragedy into a Festival of Lights

So here’s the tea: Steve Harbaugh’s dad, George, passed away right after Christmas in 2017. Most people would’ve turned into a Scrooge, but not Steve. He took that heartache and flipped it on its head, creating a Christmas miracle that would make even the elves in the North Pole drop their toy-making tools in awe.

A Christmas Village with a Twist

And get this: Harbaugh Village isn’t your grandma’s Christmas village. This place has rides (yes, rides!) and attractions that would give old Saint Nick a run for his money. It’s like Steve thought, “What’s better than a Christmas tree? A Christmas village with a Ferris wheel!” Talk about overachieving.

The Heart of Harbaugh Village

But here’s where it gets real: Harbaugh Village isn’t just about bringing joy to the masses. It’s about bringing hope. They partner with charity organizations to help families in need. So while you’re there getting your Christmas fix, you’re also helping make the world a slightly less Grinchy place.

So, What’s the Deal with This Christmas Wonderland?Skylands stadium christmas light show

Well, let me break it down for you. Harbaugh Village is a place where you can soak in the holiday spirit, whether it’s July or December. It’s a place where Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar; it’s a year-round feeling. And it’s all thanks to a man who decided to turn a sad Christmas story into a living, breathing holiday dream.


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More Than Just a Price Tag

Alright, let’s talk turkey—or, should I say, Christmas ham? The price tag for Harbaugh Village has gone up faster than a reindeer on a sugar rush. But before you start rummaging through your couch cushions for extra change, let’s remember where those dollars are going. Every ticket sold is like a golden ticket to the chocolate factory for George’s House, a non-profit that’s all about spreading cheer—and not just the kind that comes wrapped in shiny paper.

So, yeah, you’re shelling out a few more bucks, but you’re also helping families get back on their feet. Think of it as investing in karma points. Plus, where else can you get carousel rides, games, and a chance to snap a selfie with Santa while also being a philanthropic rock star?

To order a ticket, CLICK HERE, but don’t get your hopes up because the Chevy Chase Christmas Tree Lighting is sold out!

Harbaugh Village Ticketing Information

General Admission Details

Item Price Details
General Admission Ticket $19.95 Access to Harbaugh Village, including:
Carousel Rides
Boardwalk & Sports Games
Exclusive Holiday Photo Opportunities
Live Entertainment
Holiday Light Displays
North Pole Experience Admission
Meet & Greet with Santa
Free Photo with Santa
Reindeer Food Making Station
Holiday Karaoke
 Craft Hand-written Letters to Santa
 Snowball Zone
Free Parking at Harbaugh Village

À La Carte Activities (Not Included in General Admission)

Harbaugh village igloo rentals

Harbaugh village igloo rentals

Activity Price Details Description
Skating Tickets $9.95 each 45-minute session.
Skate rental: $6.00 Each Guests may bring their own skates
Fire Pit Rental $50/session Exclusive fire pit rental for a session. Enjoy cozy moments with loved ones at your private fire pit. We provide and maintain the wood. Book early, as fire pits are in high demand. Note: Alcohol is available during holiday season operating hours.
Igloo Rental (same link as firepit) $60.00 How COOL!!!! Ideal for any small group, our cozy, heated igloos offer a private haven for up to 8 guests at Harbaugh Village, ensuring a comfortable experience sheltered from the elements. Wait service and liquor are available

 

A Christmas Legacy That’s More Than Just Tinsel

When the village lights up each December, it’s not just the bulbs that are getting all bright and shiny. It’s the whole shebang—the spirit of giving, the joy of helping out, and the legacy of a guy who looked at a sad situation and said, “Let’s make this better with more lights than Vegas.”

Next time you’re nursing that eggnog hangover, think about Harbaugh Village. It’s the place where Christmas isn’t just one day of frantic gift unwrapping but a full-time, all-year-round gig. It’s a reminder that the real Christmas magic isn’t hiding under the tree (or in that weirdly shaped present from Aunt Edna), but in the big-hearted acts of those who give.

And that, my festive friends, is what Christmas spirit is all about. So here’s a toast to Harbaugh Village, where every day is like living in a holiday snow globe, and every twinkle light is a high-five for humanity. 

Feeling the Christmas Spirit? Help Us Feel It Too!

If this tale of Harbaugh Village has tugged at your heartstrings and filled you with that irresistible Christmas spirit, then it’s time to turn those warm, fuzzy feelings into action!

🎁 Spread the Cheer: Share this post with your friends, family, and everyone in your social circle. Let’s get everyone talking about Harbaugh Village and its mission to sprinkle joy and kindness!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Bring the Family to Harbaugh Village. If you’re lucky enough to snag tickets, don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories. Remember, each visit supports a great cause!

🌐 Stay Connected: Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for the latest updates, insider tips, and maybe a sneak peek at those elusive extra tickets!

💖 Support Our Journey: Every click, read, and purchase through our affiliate links doesn’t just support us – it spreads a sprinkle of Christmas magic and if you have read any one of my other articles, I’m sure you are aware that I can certainly use the help this year because right now, I’m not sure how I’m going to make sure Santa visits this year. If you’re feeling extra generous, CLICK HERE to support our blog and help keep our Christmas dreams alive. Your support means more stories, more festive adventures, and a whole lot of heart.

Harbaugh Village isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling, a community, and a beacon of hope and joy. Let’s make this holiday season the brightest yet. Because when we come together, the magic truly happens. 🎄❤️

Click, Share, Love, Repeat! Let’s make the spirit of Christmas an everyday celebration!

 


Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links to suggested products may compensate me for the referral. As a human being who cannot seem to keep her opinions to herself and might just be the real-life “Yes Mam,” I won’t recommend, refer, or promote something unless I have, do, or would use it myself. However, if I’m being honest, I’m a total noob, so there’s no guarantee that I won’t become a total sellout in the future.