For more than 30 years, the Peckville Christmas House holiday light display in Peckville, Pennsylvania, has brought joy and Christmas spirit to Lackawanna County and beyond. From Thanksgiving to January 7th, visitors can drive around the adjoining properties in their cars or meander through a wonderland of twinkling lights and vintage blow molds.
A Family Christmas Tradition for Over 30 Years
Brothers Matt, Jeff, and James Harhut have fond memories of driving around looking at Christmas lights with their parents. Back in the 90s, they decided to share their love of Christmas with their community by setting up their own Christmas display.
What began with a modest 100 blow molds gradually grew in scale until the early 2000s. As more people swapped their blow molds for newly popular inflatables, the Harhut family was able to rescue and repurpose them, leading to a rapid expansion.
Thirty years later, their display now includes over 200,000 lights and 3,000 blow molds covering Matt and Jeff’s neighboring properties. James lives nearby and is the chief electrician, while his wife, Mindy, runs the Facebook page.
The Peckville Christmas House gained national attention in 2017 when it was featured on season 5 of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight. Every year, thousands of community members enjoy the display, and many local businesses donate hot chocolate and candy canes to share with visitors.
What to Expect at the Display
Blow molds are the star of the display, with lovingly restored vintage pieces arranged by theme. Every year, the brothers travel to several states to acquire new additions. From penguins, snowmen, and beloved characters to a nativity scene and angel choir, the lawns are covered with unique pieces.
As you walk through the display along a designated path, you’ll stroll beneath sparkling light tunnels, gaze up at light-covered trees, and admire candy canes and snowflakes adorning the walls of each house. Everywhere you look there are bright lights and holiday cheer!
Dates, Times, and Admission
The Grand Lighting Ceremony takes place on Thanksgiving at 5 PM. The display remains lit from 5-9 PM Monday through Thursday and 5-10 PM Friday through Sunday until January 7th, which is Christmas according to the Russian calendar. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Parking is available on Marion Street or the nearby Sacred Heart of Jesus parking lot.
Visitor Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
While you can drive around the display, it’s best experienced by taking the walking path. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. Be sure to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear, as the path can get muddy during rainy weather. Check The Peckville House Facebook page for weather-related closures. They also post about special events, such as free hot chocolate nights and visits by Santa or other characters like Buddy the Elf.
Make Peckville Christmas House a Part of Your Holiday Traditions
With new displays every year, you’ll want to make visiting the Peckville Christmas House a part of your family’s annual holiday traditions. You can also explore more holiday light displays and holiday events in Lackawanna County to fill your season with cheer.
