Columbia Gets Festive: The Lisznyai Family’s Holiday Extravaganza!
Columbia, South Carolina, is bursting with holiday spirit as the Lisznyai family prepares their awe-inspiring Christmas House. With up to 300 hours dedicated to decorating, this family puts the ‘light’ in delight during the winter season. Each year, their home in the Spring Valley subdivision transforms into a beacon of holiday joy, charming hundreds of visitors from near and far.
An Ongoing Tradition
Believe it or not, this remarkable holiday tradition started three generations ago! It’s hard to imagine, but Katelyn Lisznyai’s great-grandparents kicked it all off with a single wooden Santa in New Jersey. Fast forward a few decades, and it’s grown into a colossal display that draws admiration and awe.
Katelyn shares, “They always like to say it started with a single blow mold and three strands of lights, but it has grown every year since.” Now, the Lisznyai Christmas House features a dazzling array of synchronized lights, charming figurines, and even intricate Nativity scenes, all bringing warmth and light to the chilly winter nights.
Lights, Action, Community!
Launching the festivities on Thanksgiving and keeping the spirit alive until New Year’s Day, the Lisznyai family’s efforts have turned their decorations into a beloved community tradition. Katelyn says, “We’ve always kind of just loved the holiday season, but specifically after COVID, it’s grown to more of a community thing.”
Hundreds of onlookers from around Columbia gather to witness this spectacular sight, making it a perfect family outing or neighborhood get-together. The Lisznyais not only spread cheer through their lights but also through community block parties with food trucks, music, and games that bring everyone together. How fun does that sound?
A Decorator’s Paradise
Of course, the Lisznyai family isn’t alone in their festive enthusiasm! South Carolinians are no strangers to going all out for the holidays. A quick look around the state reveals front yards decked out with everything from 8-foot-tall Halloween monsters to intricate Christmas train displays.
The holiday season has become a source of joy and creativity for people across the state. Take Anderson County’s Dan T. Cooper, for instance. He explains, “I have a big yard, so I try to fill it up.” With inflatable decorations and themed displays, his passion for creating holiday cheer knows no bounds.
Vintage Blow Molds Rise in Popularity
Interestingly, vintage decorations like blow molds are making a huge comeback! The Lisznyai family owns dozens of these retro treasures, which have seen a surge in popularity—and value! It’s not just nostalgia; these delightful figures are now sought after collectors’ items. Just imagine the joy of unearthing a $200 blow mold!
Katelyn reflects how growing up in such a spirited household has fueled her passion. “This is the biggest tradition that we have,” she admits. With the immense time and effort put into the decorations, it’s no wonder that their home has become a glowing festivity spot each year.
Join the Festivities!
If you’re looking to soak up some holiday spirit, the Lisznyai Christmas House is lit every night from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. between Thanksgiving and January 1 at 725 Formby Drive, Columbia. Bring your friends, family, and a camera, and enjoy the stunning sights that light up Columbia’s night sky!
This initiative brings the community together like never before, enabling friendships to flourish and creating a festive camaraderie. As the Lisznyai Christmas House brightens the Columbia nights, it also warms the hearts of many—proving that the holiday season is truly a time for joy, togetherness, and community.
