As the holiday season approaches, homes across the world begin to sparkle with festive lights, and for many families, decorating for Christmas is a cherished tradition that brings joy, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. Among the homes that stand out each year for their dazzling displays is the Lasavage family residence near Newport. This family’s tradition of decking their home in a sea of twinkling lights has become a beloved ritual, not only for them but for their neighbors and visitors who flock to the area to admire the spectacular show.
The Lasavage home, nestled on the outskirts of Newport, has become a beacon of holiday cheer. Every December, the house is transformed into a radiant spectacle that captivates both the young and the old. The Lasavage family’s tradition of decorating with lights is not just about brightening up their property; it’s about creating an experience that fosters community spirit, celebrates the season, and honors their family’s values of love, tradition, and generosity.
The Origins of the Tradition
The Lasavage family’s holiday tradition dates back several decades, beginning with the matriarch of the family, Margaret Lasavage, who was inspired by her own childhood memories of Christmas. Margaret grew up in a home where holiday decorations were more than just ornaments on a tree—they were expressions of love, warmth, and celebration. For her, decorating with lights was an essential part of the holiday magic, creating an atmosphere that drew friends and family together.
When Margaret married her husband, Tom Lasavage, they made a promise to continue the tradition in their own home. As the years passed, their collection of lights grew, transforming their home into a local landmark. What began as a modest display of twinkling bulbs became a massive production involving thousands of lights, inflatables, and decorations, all meticulously arranged to create a show that has become a staple of the holiday season.
Tom and Margaret, along with their children, have always seen Christmas lights as a way to connect with others. As the family grew, so did the display. What started as a few strands of simple lights now covers nearly every inch of the Lasavage property, from the trees lining the driveway to the roofline of the house. The lights twinkle and dance, casting a warm glow on the surrounding neighborhood and creating a festive atmosphere that brings smiles to the faces of all who pass by.
A Family Affair
For the Lasavage family, decorating for Christmas is more than just a chore; it’s a family affair that brings everyone together. Each year, the family members come together to plan the design and set up the lights. Tom and Margaret are the leaders, guiding their children—now young adults—through the process. While some family members take charge of stringing lights along the eaves and gutters, others focus on setting up animated figures and inflatables in the yard. The Lasavages have even been known to enlist the help of their neighbors and friends, turning the decorating process into a communal event.
The team effort is a key component of the Lasavage family tradition. “It’s about bonding with one another,” Tom Lasavage explains. “The Christmas lights are the backdrop to so many memories we’ve made together. Whether it’s my wife and I hanging the lights in the cold night air or our kids running around helping out, it’s always a time for laughter, stories, and making new memories.”
Margaret, for her part, cherishes the time spent with her family. “Christmas lights symbolize hope, joy, and warmth for us,” she says. “They’re a way for us to share our love and happiness with everyone who sees them. When the lights are on, it feels like the house is full of love, and it fills my heart with joy.”
A Magical Display: Lights, Music, and Movement
One of the key reasons the Lasavage family’s Christmas lights display has gained such a reputation is the level of detail and creativity that goes into it every year. Their property is adorned with thousands of lights in a wide array of colors, covering everything from trees and bushes to the roof and front porch. But the display doesn’t stop there.
In addition to the lights, the Lasavages incorporate animated figures, such as Santa Claus, reindeer, and snowmen, into the display. These figures often move or interact with one another, adding an element of whimsy and magic to the scene. The family also uses synchronized music, which plays from outdoor speakers, to bring the entire display to life. As the lights flash and move in sync with the festive tunes, visitors feel as if they’re walking through a winter wonderland.
One of the most popular features of the Lasavage Christmas light display is the “light show,” which runs every evening throughout the holiday season. This light show is a carefully choreographed sequence in which the lights change colors and patterns in time with the music. The Lasavages spend hours each year tweaking the timing and sequencing of the lights to ensure that every note is perfectly aligned with the twinkle of the bulbs.
“It’s like a mini celebration every night,” says Tom. “We know how much people enjoy it, and that’s what makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
The Lasavages’ light display is so popular that it’s become a local tradition. Every year, families from Newport and nearby communities drive to the Lasavage home to take in the breathtaking sight. Many visitors stop to take photos, with children standing in front of the glowing decorations, their faces lit up with wonder. The display has become a part of the fabric of the community, with people returning year after year to share in the joy of the season.
A Message of Hope and Joy
While the Lasavage family’s Christmas light display is undoubtedly a stunning visual feast, it also carries a deeper meaning. For the Lasavages, the lights represent more than just a festive decoration—they are a symbol of hope, joy, and unity. In a world that can sometimes feel divided and uncertain, the lights serve as a reminder of the goodness that exists in the world and the power of love and family.
The Lasavage family is also known for using their display to give back to the community. Over the years, they’ve raised money for local charities, including food banks, shelters, and organizations supporting families in need. The family has set up donation stations where visitors can contribute to these causes, making their display not only a source of entertainment but also a force for good in the community.
“We’ve always believed in giving back,” says Margaret. “The lights are our way of spreading joy, but they’re also a way for us to help others. Christmas is about sharing love and compassion, and we want to do our part.”
A Lasting Legacy
As the years pass, the Lasavage family’s Christmas lights display continues to grow and evolve. Their children, now young adults, are taking on more responsibility in the decorating process, ensuring that the tradition will carry on for generations to come. It’s not just about the lights; it’s about preserving a family legacy of love, togetherness, and generosity.
For the Lasavage family, decorating for Christmas is a cherished tradition that encapsulates everything they hold dear. It’s a time to come together, share joy with others, and create lasting memories that will be treasured for years to come. As the lights twinkle and dance in the winter night, they serve as a reminder of the magic of the holiday season and the power of family and community.
