The end of Thanksgiving brings more than just wine hangovers and pants that fit more snugly than they used to. As November wanes, a Yule tidal wave of gaudy holiday decorations assaults our neighborhoods and our sense of good taste.
Extravagant displays have been glamorized and satirized in numerous movies and television shows. Who can forget Tim “The Toolman” Taylor or Clark Griswold’s electrifying exploits in their respective quests to outdo their neighbors with Christmas decorations?
These light takes on life-threatening situations appear to have inspired (or were perhaps inspired by) real-life garish-decoration enthusiasts.
Last year, a popular video circulated the Internet of an over-the-top display of lights choreographed to music. Its wide acclaim is sure to spur imitators and competitors this holiday season.
Photographer Zac Goodwin traveled around the Eugene/Springfield area to find the tackiest local examples he could. And while he didn’t find any light-and-music shows, there’s still nearly a month before Christmas, so we shouldn’t lose hope for a hometown hero to emerge.
– Kai-Huei Yau
Online Exclusive – Go online to see Zac’s slideshow.