Christmas Light Displays

Each year, millions of us, across this great land, take to our vehicles at least once, during the Christmas season, to do nothing more than drive the neighborhoods and cul-de-sacs to see the various display of Christmas lights. For many, it’s simply stringing them around bushes and trees and the house, maybe a few lighted displays in the yard, as well. However, there are some that go way beyond the basic; using hundreds of thousands of lights to create incredible displays expressing the Christmas celebration. And now, with use of computers and even wireless technology, these displays are more elaborate, than ever.

Last night, we took advantage of the nice, unseasonably warm weather (70 degrees), and went to a place, just east of Raleigh, North Carolina, known throughout the Tar Heel state for it’s out-of-this-world Christmas light display. It’s called Lake Myra Christmas, and it’s website states that it’s “The Most Exciting And Spectacular Christmas Light Show In North Carolina”. After seeing the entire 45 minute presentation (approximate time) of dancing lights synchronized to music, it’s hard to imagine that it wouldn’t be.

In previous visits, there has always been a large crowd, but last night, we found ourselves to be almost alone in the viewing, which begins at 6pm (EST). If you decide to visit, this may be the best time, crowd-wise, as many are still in transit home from work. It will likely get much busier throughout the evening. We were able to easily walk around to experience all of the display, which is recommended, just because there is so much to see of this massive display. The display is so large, that 3 yards are utilized, 2 one one side of the road, and a third on the opposite side. While I recommend getting out and experiencing it, you don’t have to, you can stay in your vehicle, and still hear the music, as well, by simply turning your radio to 100.1.

According to the display’s creator, a gentleman named Don Williams, there are several various presentations. The one we were treated to, began with merely a lit U. S. flag and more lights that simulated fireworks, all set to Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless The U. S. A.” From there, the viewer is taken into a journey that has dancing, flashing, and fading lights of red, green, and white, strung in the shapes of Christmas trees, trains, arches, and stars, among other shapes, and all is set to music. And unlike many displays I’ve seen over the years, this one, while dazzling and bright, never strays from the actual reason for the Holiday.

I also got the opportunity to speak for several minutes with Mr. Williams, and he explained much of what goes into putting something like this together; from the stringing of the lights, to the computer work, to the testing to make sure everything works, as planned. It’s quite a project, and something that is not successfully executed, without a passion for the task. And if you are wondering how he does this all by himself, he told me that he is retired, so he has plenty of time, but he also has help putting on the show, from his neighbors, who seem just as enthusiastic and passionate about the presentation.

As for cost, there is none. It’s all free.

Should you decide to take a trip to the Raleigh-area to experience this light event, you will not be disappointed.

According to his website, he has been putting on his light display since 2002, and based on our conversation, it doesn’t sound like it will be coming to an end, anytime soon, of which those of us within driving distance of the Triangle region of North Carolina, can be very thankful.

You can learn more about the Lake Myra Christmas display by clicking the link, below:

http://lakemyrachristmas.com/1.html

Several videos of the Lake Myra Christmas presentation can be found on Youtube, including this one: