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Smithtown Christmas Display Draws Visitors From Far and Wide

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. as-display-draws-visitors-from-far-and-wide.html
  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 4:42 GMT by NBC Washington
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

SMITHTOWN, N.Y. - What began three decades ago as a modest display of holiday spirit has blossomed into a dazzling, larger-than-life Christmas spectacle in Smithtown, New York. The McGowan family's annual light display, located at 331 Middle Road, has become a beloved local tradition, attracting visitors from across Long Island and beyond. Many have playfully likened the home to the iconic, over-the-top residence of Clark Griswold in the classic film National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, and it's easy to see why.

The display isn't just a collection of lights; it's an immersive experience. Hundreds of thousands of twinkling bulbs illuminate the property, casting a magical glow on inflatable characters, animated scenes, and carefully coordinated displays. The sheer scale of the undertaking is breathtaking, transforming a typical suburban home into a winter wonderland.

John McGowan, who now carries the torch for his father, explains the origins of the tradition. "It started small, really. Dad just wanted to put up a few strings of lights and brighten up the neighborhood," McGowan recounts. "But he always had a knack for going all out. Each year, he'd add a little more, and a little more, until it grew into what you see today."

The "little more" has indeed become substantial. Beyond the massive number of lights, the display now incorporates sophisticated programming and animation. The McGowan family meticulously plans and sets up the display each year, a process that begins months in advance. They've expanded to include projected light shows on the house itself, synchronized to classic Christmas carols. New additions are continually integrated, keeping the spectacle fresh and exciting for returning visitors.

However, the joy the display brings doesn't come without a cost. Maintaining such an elaborate presentation is a significant financial undertaking. McGowan candidly admits, "The electricity bill is the biggest hurdle. We're talking close to $400 a month just to keep everything lit throughout December. And that doesn't even account for the cost of replacing bulbs, repairing inflatables, or purchasing new displays."

Beyond the monetary investment, the labor is considerable. The McGowans dedicate countless hours to setting up, maintaining, and eventually dismantling the display. It's a true family affair, with multiple generations pitching in to ensure everything runs smoothly. Volunteers from the local community have also started to offer assistance, recognizing the positive impact the display has on the town.

Local businesses have also begun to benefit from the increased foot traffic during the holiday season. Nearby restaurants and shops report a surge in customers, drawn by the festive atmosphere. The Smithtown Chamber of Commerce has even begun coordinating events around the display, further solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the town's holiday celebrations.

Despite the challenges, the McGowan family remains unwavering in their commitment to the tradition. "It's more than just lights and decorations," McGowan emphasizes. "It's about bringing people together and spreading a little bit of joy during the holiday season. Seeing the smiles on people's faces, especially the kids, makes all the effort worthwhile." He adds with a chuckle, "We've gotten pretty attached to it at this point! We're not going to stop anytime soon."

Word of the Smithtown spectacle has spread through social media, with photos and videos of the display routinely going viral. The McGowans have established a Facebook page to keep visitors updated on new additions and special events, fostering a strong sense of community among those who flock to witness the dazzling show. The tradition has become a beacon of holiday cheer, not just for Smithtown, but for a growing audience eager to experience a little bit of Christmas magic.