As it does every December, the Christmas spirit has come upon the Grand Valley. For some, this may take the form of blasting Christmas music while shopping for presents or studying for finals. For others, it means baking until all the flour in the region is gone. For others, it means setting up elaborate light displays, for their neighbors’ and others’ enjoyment. Some take it to the next level and hope to draw visitors from across the valley. This year, local radio station 95 Rock is hosting a competition that will award $500 to the best light display. While the ability to submit an entry for the competition closed on December 13th, it provided an incentive for people to get to decorating, and it elevated the level of Christmas cheer in the valley this year.

Driving around to look at Christmas lights isn’t everyone’s idea of a perfect holiday evening, but in a year like 2020, it’s a safe way to celebrate Christmas. Gathering with a big group of friends to watch movies and share a bowl of popcorn is near impossible during a pandemic. Looking at lights, however, is much safer. As long as you drive with people who have been in your “Covid bubble”, staying within the car is a pandemic-friendly way to get yourself into the Christmas spirit. So grab yourself a peppermint hot chocolate, and start planning the route for your family this year!

Less of a car trip and more of a walk is the lights display in downtown Fruita. Residents of Fruita have noticed that their beloved downtown has been taken over by lights this year, as it has for many years in the past. In Circle Park, every tree is filled with lights and the gazebo in the center is adorned with them as well. Aspen Street businesses even partake in the light show, including the statue of local legend, Mike the Headless Chicken. If you ever find yourself in need of some evening plans, grabbing some Hot Tomato Pizza and then walking around the light display sounds like a wonderful evening. Even play a little I-Spy with an elf hidden in one of the trees!

Right off of 26 road is a neighborhood of Christmas fanatics. Many houses of the Northridge Subdivision choose to light up their homes and fill their lawns with lights. As you drive deeper into the neighborhood, you’ll find yourself drawn to the house to end them all. Called the “Blue Light Show” according to the 95 Rock website, this house coordinates its light display with a local radio station for an incredible spectacle. The wait for this show can be long, but seeing other houses along the street lit up makes up for it. The street has gained popularity in the last few years, but it pales in comparison to the Blue House.

If you’re ever driving down I-70 at night during the month of December, you’re bound to see the notorious Blue House. Situated right on the side of the highway, it’s sure a sight for anyone passing through the valley at this time of year. Residents of the Grand Valley make seeing the house a tradition. All it takes is a quick drive north on 26 road, right over I-70, and it’s impossible to miss. Almost every house in this small cul-de-sac has a beautiful array of lights, but the Blue House is the biggest spectacle of them all. Every piece of this house’s gigantic lawn is strewn with strings of blue lights, covering every inch of the property. Mixed in with some white deer and a green Christmas tree, this house is a sight to behold every year.

Christmas can be a stressful time of year, but it’s also a good reminder to stop and breathe. In a year that has repeatedly gotten more crazier than anyone could have possibly imagined, it’s important to take stock of what’s important in your life. Whether it’s friends, family, or your dog, be sure to let them know you appreciate all they did for you this year. A great way to do this is by driving them around to see Christmas lights, while listening to music and enjoying some hot chocolate.