For the seventh year in a row, Eric and Shannon Johanesson deck out their home in Winter Park, FL and open it up to the public. They spend weeks installing elaborate displays with the help of their three kids, friends and neighbors to ensure that everyone in Orlando can experience some Christmas Joy- for free.
“We want to give back to the community,” said Mrs. Johanesson in an interview at the event. It’s grown and grown over the years. We get wonderful stories from those who come back year after year and its part of their tradition.”
The front yard is sprinkled in snow, sparkles, photo-ops, and every colored Christmas light you could imagine. The back yard has interactive displays including a tree-house that provides a flying reindeer’s view over a variety of themed displays like the beach, Charlie Brown, and the Nutcracker.
Wendy Wheaton has attended the Johanesson Christmas light display for the last four years with her five grandkids and has made it a yearly tradition.
“It’s absolutely amazing,” Wheaton said. “The kids love the snow. It’s probably one of the most amazing Christmas celebrations, decoration of any area I’ve ever been. I think every family should try to make it.”
Wheaton takes her family Christmas photos here every year.
“It’s for the joy,” said Johanessen. “And spreading cheer to the community. A lot of families can’t afford Disney, they can’t afford Lou Gardens. Our front yard is free, we have a dancing stage, we have a huge Santa’s sleigh where families take the annual Christmas photos. We have snow, we have bubbles! And to help off-set the cost of this, the backyard is an optional tour, and we ask for a donation to help pay for everything.”
“It’s just so joyful,” said Wheaton.
Follow @johanessenlights on Instagram for their operating hours.
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