Lexington’s Dinosaur Wonderland Rides the Holiday Wave
Every holiday season in Lexington ignites a buzz of excitement and cheer, but this year, it’s also bursting with roars from the past. Just a stone’s throw outside of town, the Price family has turned their yard into a whimsical Jurassic Park. Yes, you heard it right—dinosaurs are the stars of the show, and they’re here to stay for the season!
A Creative Family Tradition
It all began a few years ago, when Christopher Price, a self-employed handyman, crafted his very first dinosaur in honor of his two young sons. The kids, aged 8 and 6, were instantly charmed, which sparked a family tradition. What started as a Halloween display back in 2022 has now blossomed into a creative Christmas extravaganza featuring a full menagerie of 11 dinosaurs!
Driven by the joyful energy of his kids, Christopher was faced with a delightful decision this season: should the dinosaurs bask in the holiday spirit a little longer? With an enthusiastic vote from the boys, the decision was made! As Christopher jokingly quipped to his wife, “Sorry, you’ve been outvoted!”
From the Miniature to the Mighty
Each dinosaur in the Price collection represents a different species, such as the soaring pterodactyl and the fierce velociraptor. But none hold a candle to the show-stopper of the yard: a dynamic Tyrannosaurus rex affectionately known as “Lex.” This eye-popping figure has become a permanent fixture, standing tall and proud all year round.
Back in the days of his first dino creation, Christopher had no idea he would someday design a towering spinosaurus measuring an astonishing 24 feet long and 11 feet high! He’s even got plans for a future brontosaurus that’ll dwarf its fellow giants. Talk about a backyard full of memories!
Lights, Camera, Dinosaurs!
The Price family display doesn’t stop at just dinosaurs. Inspired by the iconic Jurassic Park film, Christopher cleverly included a replica of the famous jeep navigating a vibrant stream of blue Christmas lights. It’ll take you back to your childhood thrills! Even more imaginative, he brought to life the triceratops from the movie, lovingly sculpted to mimic the ailing dinosaur.
Price’s nod to the original film brings back a flood of nostalgia. “I still get goosebumps watching that,” he said, while admiring the triceratops lying on its side—a fitting tribute to childhood adventures.
A Colorful Initiative
This year, Christopher decided to color Lex a bright pink, not just to add some flair, but for an admirable cause—raising funds for the American Cancer Society. His campaign for breast cancer research and treatment successfully raised $1,500! With names of over 80 individuals battling cancer inscribed on the dino, it’s a heartfelt message wrapped in holiday cheer. “I had a lot of fun with that, and it’s for a good cause,” he remarked.
Dino-Mite Fun for Everyone!
The Price family’s dinosaur exhibit has become well-known among locals and visitors alike, with cars slowing to snap photos as they pass by. This last Halloween alone, the display drew in about 300 trick-or-treaters! Dressed in their best costumes, kids and adults alike lined up to take pictures with the friendly reptiles. “I’ve got other ideas, but I can’t get away from dinosaurs,” laughed Christopher as he mused about his growing legacy. “That’s kind of what’s given me my notoriety.”
So if you’re driving down Augusta Road/Highway 1, take a moment to enjoy this unique holiday display buzzing with the spirit of creativity, laughter, and a touch of prehistoric charm. Who knows? You might even hear a faint dinosaur roar while driving past!
