When we asked for lights, you didn’t dim our expectations.
Decorators we’ve profiled in the past submitted their homes again for inclusion in our annual roundup of holiday light displays. Just when we thought they couldn’t find additional space in their front yards, many of our “regulars” added new pieces to their displays.
We also heard from some aspiring Griswolds we haven’t featured in recent years. They turned on the effort as well.
Are you ready to put on your novelty sweaters, pile your family into the car and take a tour of lights?
Fortunately, our printable map of local decorations -- available at ledger-enquirer.com -- will help you plan your route. Here are some Columbus homes that deserve your attention.
821 and 825 LICHFIELD ROAD
Two homes, one giant Winter Wonderland. These addresses include a good collection of decorations, including a big nativity scene and cool inflatables.
925 MOBLEY ROAD
You’ll see Santa skiing at this home, which boasts lots of eye-catching trees. Linger a little longer than usual so you don’t miss the many subtle touches.
436 CHEYENNE ROAD
This home’s exterior is packed with items ranging from Santa on a hammock to a giant cross. There’s lots of evidence suggesting Santa uses this residence as a home away from home.
HOMES OFF WEST BRITT DAVID ROAD
Someone directed us to 5753 Springhill Ave., in the neighborhood that sits near Everything Musical. We arrived at the home and confirmed that as usual, a good share of the neighborhood is covered in lights. You’ll be impressed.
6043 ASCOT WAY
This home includes many elegant white lights, but you’ll find a few flashy touches, too. As usual, our eyes gravitated toward the carefully decorated roof.
4547 PAPAYA DRIVE
This display taught us that even giant M&M candies celebrate Christmas. We went into cuteness overload upon seeing the little Rudolph with a blinking nose.
6359 INDEPENDENCE DRIVE
Unique vintage blow molds dominate these decorations. Items span snowmen, a nativity scene, Tweety and much more. Once you’re at Independence Drive, it’s relatively easy to get to the next two Columbus homes on our list (Ironstone Drive, Shanna Lane).
5784 IRONSTONE DRIVE
You’ve probably heard about the Ludy family’s lights -- you know, the display that spans over 100,000 lights with music and animation. Yes, it’s really a big deal. Check it out.
5322 SHANNA LANE
Do Christmas flamingoes exist? At this creative and captivating display -- which is set to music -- the answer is “yes.” But don’t take our word for it. See it yourself.
4500 FORREST ROAD
Big inflatables dominate this display, which is sure to please visitors of all ages. This home is at the intersection of Forrest and Roberta, and it’s best to park on Roberta so you can see the decorations on the side of the home.
4802 FLOYD COURT
Your eyes will likely start at the colorful roof, then gravitate down toward the intricate touches on the ground. We appreciated the snowy writing on the window.
1355 ANTIETAM DRIVE
Roll your eyes, but we think the miniature Abominable Snowman at this home is actually pretty cute. Don’t miss Santa driving a crane.
2626 HABERSHAM AVE.
An eye-catching tree is the centerpiece at this display, which includes music. We also enjoyed the wreaths on the windows and the elegant lights that line the roof.
3629 DUNHILL DRIVE
One piece of advice: Go inside. The outside is spectacular, but you’ll want to accept the invitation to check out the collection of trinkets inside the home.
2002 17th AVE.
We fell in love with the giant homemade train that’s ready to travel up this home’s roof. We also liked the music, star and festively decorated mailbox.
1210 OWSLEY AVE.
Items like an elf and nativity scene on the ground will keep your eyes busy, but make sure to take in the whole display. Look up high and you’ll see Santa.
4808 FREEMAN COURT
Still need holiday spirit? Visit this exciting display, which has a wide assortment of decorations. We like the special touches on the roof.
LIGHT DISPLAYS WORTHY OF A DRIVE
Want to take a short road trip? Check out these light displays, located outside Columbus. They’ll definitely make you say “wow.”
4747 Old Seale Road, Seale, Ala.: Each year these decorators add something new to their display, which includes lighted archways, inflatable snow globes, molded plastic Disney characters and a hill full of lighted deer. You can’t see this impressive display from the road, but don’t be afraid to turn down their long dirt driveway -- once you do, the lights come into view quickly.
29 Flournoy Road, Salem, Ala.: Blue icicle lights adorn the house, while lighted candy canes, angels, candles and Christmas trees decorate the fence at this residence. The inflatable nativity scene and snowmen are particularly worth the drive, as is the barn, which is a festive bonus for lights-viewers.
280 Lee Road 942, Smiths Station, Ala.: This lights display is on nightly until 10:30 p.m. through Dec. 28. Bright, strobing lights flash in sync with music and include a giant lighted castle, trains, Santa and his sleigh, stars, Santa in a helicopter and much more. A “Happy Birthday Jesus” sign, as well as a large, lighted nativity scene round out the display. Canned food donations are accepted at the location for a local food bank.
652 Lee Road 960, Smiths, Ala.: You’ll want to visit this home, which features beautiful net lighting. There’s also a tropical theme that will make you forget it’s December.
571 Lee Road 2087, Salem, Ala.: This captivating display spans over 1,000 lights.
Ridgeway Road, Waverly Hall, Ga.: This stop includes many decorated homes, with displays spanning wreaths, toy soldiers, candy canes and much more. You’ll see many different approaches, all of which boast extensive effort.
599 Red Oak Drive, Waverly Hall, Ga.: It’s another impressive Waverly Hall destination, complete with extensive decorations that will capture your attention for quite some time. Don’t miss the ladder leading up to the roof, complete with little figurines.
