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Summary

This 13,000 Light 'Christmas House' Transforms Into Ottawa's Very Own North Pole

It gets bigger and better every year. 🎄
Staff Writer

For some free fun this December, you won't want to miss seeing the colourful twinkling lights on Taffy Lane in Ottawa. The street in Orleans is famous for having elaborate decorations that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

One of the most epic sights on the block belongs to the Abercrombie family. Peter Abercrombie told Narcity, "Throughout the years, our neighbours on Taffy Lane enjoyed the decorations so much that they started adding their own holiday creations to their own homes too. And the rest is history!"

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How long have you been doing this?

Back in 1977, their decorations started with hanging lights around their spruce tree. But the grand displays began in 1981 when Peter created six-foot-tall toy soldiers for his home that look straight from The Nutcracker.

But it didn't stop there; over the years, they have added many colossal figures that are sure to make you smile. In their front yard, everywhere is covered in holiday cheer. You can spot a 10-foot tall Frosty The Snowman, The Grinch and his dog Max, several Disney characters, and reindeer flying in the sky.

Decorating the home begins after Remembrance Day and takes help from multiple people to bring everything out of storage and to set it up.

How many lights do you use?

Every year the illuminations on the house become more spectacular by hanging an additional 2000-3000 lights. This holiday season, you'll be able to see over 13,000 LED lights that glow in a variety of colours.

The stunning display even has sections that are animated. Some areas change colours, while others move or sparkle to create a fantastic show.

Before switching to LED bulbs, their electrical bill was $360 per month, but now it is down to $120.

When can we see the lights?

The lights shine from the start of December until the end of the month. That means you have ample time to see the free sight.

The family tradition is to launch the show at 5 p.m. on December 1 every year.

The famous street draws large crowds of people wanting to visit. Weekends are usually the most crowded, so consider going on a weeknight if you prefer not to wait.

The best way to go to Taffy Lane is in your vehicle as you can stay warm as you see the decorated houses. It is also possible to visit on foot, but make sure to dress warmly.

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    • Stephanie White was an Ottawa-based Associate Editor for Narcity Canada. She has been writing mouthwatering food and wanderlust-inspiring articles for Canadians since 2012. She has a B.A. and B.Ed. from Ottawa University. When she isn't writing, you can find her travelling the globe and trying new restaurants. Stephanie has previously been published on Insider, Flight Network, Apartment Therapy, Faces Magazine, Daily Hive, Dished and The Spruce.

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