Thirty years ago, Scott and Denise Weikel began a holiday tradition, partly because they both loved celebrating Christmas, and partly as a way for Scott to purchase meaningful birthday gifts for Denise, whose birthday is right after Thanksgiving. Thus, began what has become perhaps the largest residential Christmas light display in Massachusetts, the Leicester Christmas Display!
"We both love doing this, although it takes a great deal of work to set up 200 to 220 inflatables, along with lights and other decorations throughout the almost 2 acres we own." Scott Weikel says. "Because we have so much land, as well as a workshop (which becomes a Christmas Village) that we use too, we can accommodate baby strollers and wheelchairs." The Weikels will begin (providing that things are back to some sort of normal, and we all have to anticipate they will be!) setting up the displays in October, although the planning process is already well along, as is the construction of new display pieces and repairs to older ones. Last year the Weikels added a church to the display.
"I work at my business (high end kitchen cabinet refinishing and painting) 7 days a week all year until we turn on the lights on Thanksgiving night." Weikel continues. "We don't charge admission, and the electric bill alone is steep!" The display is open to the public on weekends through Christmas.
"But it's really become our entire life." he says. "Our neighbors enjoy it, and have begun decorating their homes and yards too, and we get tremendous support from the people in Leicester."
Santa is on hand for photos with youngsters most every evening, and some of the characters also on hand include Rudolph, the Grinch, and Snoopy. "We set aside some of the trees to be decorated as "Cancer Trees" that are decorated by visitors with ornaments which often include written notes in honor or memory of a friend or family member who has been affected by cancer." Weikel adds.
The local food pantry sets up across the street selling hot chocolate and cookies. Students do community service by helping at the venue. "We do put out a donation box, and last year raised over $10,000 which we distributed to local charities such as Nazareth House." Weikel says. "We also donate candy canes to Friendly House and other organizations."
"The police details have great fun, talking with our visitors and handing out decals." Weikel states. "Right now, the folks at The Great American Light Fight on ABC are talking with us about our being spotlighted on the show, which would be good for the town of Leicester."
The Weikels have created a non-profit 501(c)3 organization to help defray the costs, particularly the $8000 needed for police details. The Weikels' street becomes one way on weekends throughout the weekends the display is open, and police details are essential. "The support we get is mind-blowing" he exclaims. Anyone interested in donating as a way to support the display, or anyone who wants more information, should visit the Leicester Christmas Display Facebook page.
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