This holiday season, many neighborhoods across the country are lighting up with festive decorations, sparking joy and community spirit. In Mesa, Arizona, a group of 14 homes has been showcasing stunning light displays for 30 years. This tradition has remained strong, even as homes in the area change hands. New homeowners often find decorations left behind, fostering a sense of continuity and shared celebration among residents.
Stephanie Castillo Price, a longtime resident, shared that, “Everyone has their own way of celebrating the holidays, and we all come together to create something beautiful. No one feels left out as they walk down the street.”
In Santa Clarita, California, the residents of Wakefield Court joined forces to lift spirits following a natural disaster. Their Wakefield Winter Wonderland, now in its 30th year, has become famous for vibrant inflatable decorations and wooden figures featuring beloved characters.
When Bryan Cobb and his wife first looked at houses in the area, he wasn’t keen on moving there. “Then my wife started tearing up and said, ‘But this is the Christmas street! I want to live there!’” Bryan recalled. Today, they cherish their time there and the strong bonds formed with neighbors.
Meanwhile, in Edmond, Oklahoma, the Miranda family has created a breathtaking light display inspired by the musical “Wicked.” With lights designed to project stunning visuals and synchronized music, their show has become a local attraction. Elisabeth Miranda shared how much effort goes into their display, saying, “Every single bulb has a specific place to achieve the right effect.”
The Miranda’s light show gained additional attention after appearing on a popular TV program, drawing visitors in droves. After some initial challenges with traffic and noise, they adjusted their plans and now even collect donations for local police as a gesture of appreciation.
In Las Vegas, Laura Walters and Lenny Standish have created a heartwarming holiday display aimed at helping those in need. Their effort began during the pandemic to provide a space for community members to connect and has since grown to include collections for socks and underwear to benefit the homeless.
“During these tough times, people are searching for joy,” said Walters. “We aim to bring happiness and peace to our community. Everyone has been respectful and grateful, making this a wonderful experience for all.”
Richard Taylor from Kennesaw, Georgia, has put together an awe-inspiring display that attracts over 40,000 visitors each year. He noted, “We bring joy to many people. When they walk through, they forget their problems and simply enjoy themselves.”
These communities exemplify the importance of togetherness and charity during the holiday season, shining brightly in the spirit of goodwill and celebration.
