Recognize your Lancaster neighbors who go all out for Christmas

LANCASTER- The other day, I was thinking about one of my favorite Christmas childhood memories. While my dad dressing up as Santa will always remain one of my top favorite memories, I also loved driving around Western New York with my parents and sister to look at all the houses that were decorated for the holidays.

There are three houses that I remember I could never get over and two of them happen to be in Lancaster. While I can’t remember exact addresses, I have a feeling that most of you will know what houses I am talking about if you have lived in the community for many years.

The first house is off of William Street and is known to me and my family as the “teddy bear house.” I can remember people upon people just pulling over to see all the teddy bears that filled the yard and the lights that gleamed to make it such a beautiful sight. I couldn’t believe the effort it must have taken to put this display all together and I hoped one day when I had a house I could do something similar.

It has been years since I have thought to drive by and see if this homeowner still puts out the teddy bears, either way I wonder if they know how much of an impact they brought to the area with their spirit, creating so many family memories. After 15 years or so, I still have the vision of their home in my head.

The second was a house on Broadway in the village and it was wonderful as well. I know it has been a while since I have seen this house lit up, but it certainly was a sight to see.

The last house, which I don’t think was in Lancaster, and I want to say it was in Akron, Newstead, or Corfu, was actually a barn. This barn was just covered in blue lights. It was so simple, but so magical. Here was this barn out in the middle of nowhere, pitch black outside, and all you saw were a glow of beautiful blue lights. I have to admit this was my favorite place to go.

So, while reflecting back on my memories, I thought it would be great to recognize those in the community who have taken decorating their house for Christmas a step beyond of what most of us do. I am asking neighbors to recognize their neighbors. If you live next to someone or know someone in Lancaster, who goes above and beyond the norm for Christmas decorating, I would like to know.

My plan is to feature at least three houses in the Lancaster Source from now till Christmas and hopefully give other families a chance to create new memories and add a little more enjoyment to their holidays. Please contact me at 668-5223, ext. 8147 or email jlysiak@metrowny.com, please have the person’s address and contact information available.