Gather The Family For A Fun Evening of Holiday Light Displays
Some Neighborhoods Are Fully Decked Out For Christmas
With so many presents to buy and relatives to visit, the holiday season can be an expensive time of year. But keeping you and your family entertained doesn’t have to cost a dime.
A crisp, December evening is the perfect time to walk or drive around the neighborhood to take in festive light displays. Start an annual tradition with the family by first gathering old pictures. Learn how to scan; my photos or yours, sharing past images is an excellent way to get children excited about family outings.
While many people simply hang a wreath on the front door and string a few lights, there are pockets of diehard Christmas fans all around the United States who live for this month, when they deck their house in thousands of lights. They’re ready to pay the massive energy bills in exchange for yuletide spirit. Larger-than-life Christmas displays often go way beyond regular string lights – you may find music synchronization, elaborate nativity scenes, a yard full of wire-framed reindeer and an inflatable Santa Claus high up on the roof, sled, gifts and all. In this photo of a Boston home, owner Dominic Luberto starts decorating his abode months before for December 25.
The best way to appreciate these joyful displays is to make a special outing of it. Prepare a home-cooked meal for the family to enjoy or visit a restaurant that serves your favorite wintertime comfort foods. Prior to the neighborhood tour, fill a Thermos with hot cocoa or wassail and pack up some homemade cookies. Your family will appreciate the goodies, especially if it’s a particularly chilly night.
In recent years, a number of specialty Web sites have surfaced, featuring maps that show neighborhoods with popular Christmas displays. The local paper also might offer an interactive map online, a handy tool to use if you’re new to town or have never gone sightseeing for Christmas lights.
Knowing how to scan my photos will allow you to build on old memories to make new ones, an important part of the holidays.