Griswold House Christmas Vacation: Ultimate Guide & Fun Facts
Introduction: The Magic of Griswold Christmas
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday movie. Millions watch it every year. The Griswold family's adventures bring joy and laughter. Clark Griswold wants the perfect Christmas. His plans often go wrong. But the movie teaches us about family and holiday spirit.
The Griswold house becomes a character itself. It represents holiday dreams and chaos. The bright lights and decorations are famous. Many people try to copy this style. The movie shows both the stress and joy of holidays. It reminds us what really matters.
This guide will explore everything about the Griswold Christmas. We will look at the movie's impact. We will share fun facts and behind-the-scenes stories. You will learn how to create your own Griswold-style Christmas. Get ready for a fun holiday journey!
The Story Behind Christmas Vacation
Christmas Vacation came out in 1989. It was the third National Lampoon vacation movie. John Hughes wrote the story. He based it on his short story in National Lampoon magazine.
Original Inspiration
John Hughes grew up in Chicago. His childhood memories inspired the story. He remembered family holidays and their chaos. The story first appeared in 1980. It was called "Christmas '59."
The movie kept many elements from the story. But it added new characters and scenes. The Griswold family became more developed. Their holiday troubles became funnier.
Production Details
Chevy Chase played Clark Griswold. Beverly D'Angelo was Ellen Griswold. The movie was filmed in winter 1988. It used several locations in Colorado and California.
The famous house was in Burbank, California. It was only the front of a house. Interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage. The movie cost about $25 million to make. It earned over $71 million at the box office.
The Famous Griswold House
The Griswold house is one of the most famous movie homes. Its Christmas decoration scene is iconic. Clark covers the house with 25,000 lights. The display is huge and bright.
Real House Location
The house used for filming still exists. You can visit the neighborhood in Burbank. The address is 691 Superior Street. But it's a private home. Fans should respect the owners' privacy.
The current owners sometimes decorate for Christmas. They might add some Griswold-style lights. But they don't do the full display from the movie. The neighborhood has many fans visiting during holidays.
House Design and Style
The house is a classic suburban home. It has a traditional American design. The two-story structure looks cozy and family-friendly. The front yard is perfect for holiday decorations.
In the movie, the house represents middle-class dreams. Clark wants to provide the perfect home. The Christmas lights show his love for family. The house becomes a symbol of holiday spirit.
Creating the Christmas Light Scene
The Christmas light scene is the movie's most famous moment. Clark works hard to create a spectacular display. But he has trouble getting the lights to work. When they finally light up, it's magical.
Technical Challenges
The filmmakers used real Christmas lights. They needed 25,000 bulbs for the scene. The lights were specially made for the movie. Regular lights wouldn't show up well on camera.
The lighting team worked for days. They had to make sure all lights worked. The famous moment when lights turn on took planning. It created one of cinema's most joyful scenes.
Cultural Impact
The light scene inspired many people. Homeowners across America try to copy it. Some cities have Griswold-style lighting contests. The scene represents holiday extravagance and fun.
According to the Christmas Lights Etc website, Christmas light sales increase after people watch the movie. Many want to create their own spectacular displays.
Memorable Characters and Performances
The movie features wonderful characters. Each adds to the holiday chaos and fun. The actors brought these characters to life perfectly.
Clark Griswold - The Holiday Hero
Chevy Chase plays Clark with great energy. He wants the perfect family Christmas. His enthusiasm sometimes causes problems. But his heart is always in the right place.
Clark represents every parent who tries too hard. He wants to create magical memories. His famous rants are both funny and relatable. Many people see themselves in Clark's holiday struggles.
Supporting Cast Highlights
- Cousin Eddie: Randy Quaid plays this memorable character. He shows up unexpectedly with his family. Eddie becomes part of the holiday chaos.
- Grandparents: The older generation adds wisdom and humor. They remember simpler Christmases.
- Children: Audrey and Rusty experience Christmas magic. They see both the good and chaotic sides.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Christmas Vacation became a holiday classic. It grows more popular each year. The movie influenced how Americans celebrate Christmas.
Holiday Traditions
Many families watch the movie every year. It has become a holiday tradition. Some people plan viewing parties. They might serve foods from the movie.
According to Statista, holiday movie watching increases by 40% in December. Christmas Vacation is always among the most popular choices.
Merchandise and References
The movie inspired many products. You can find Griswold Christmas decorations. There are t-shirts with famous quotes. Some companies make replica light displays.
Other movies and TV shows reference Christmas Vacation. The leg lamp from A Christmas Story appears briefly. This shows how holiday movies connect with each other.
Practical Griswold-Style Christmas Tips
You can bring Griswold magic to your own holidays. Here are practical tips for a fun Christmas celebration.
Lighting Your Home
Start with a plan for your lights. Measure your house and trees. Choose energy-efficient LED lights. They last longer and use less power.
Always check lights before hanging. Replace broken bulbs. Use outdoor-rated extension cords. Follow safety guidelines from National Fire Protection Association.
Family Activities
- Watch Christmas Vacation together
- Bake Christmas cookies as a family
- Go Christmas caroling in your neighborhood
- Build a gingerbread house together
- Write letters to Santa with children
Decorating Tips
Mix store-bought and handmade decorations. Create a theme for your tree. Use natural elements like pine cones. Don't forget outdoor decorations.
According to Architectural Digest, coordinated color schemes work best. Choose 2-3 main colors for your decorations.
Behind the Scenes Secrets
The movie has many interesting production stories. These secrets make watching even more fun.
Fun Facts
- The cat electrocution scene used a fake cat
- The squirrel scene required animal trainers
- Chevy Chase did many of his own stunts
- The food in dinner scenes was real
- Some dialogue was improvised by actors
Deleted Scenes
The original cut was longer. Some scenes were removed. These included more family interactions. There was an extended shopping scene.
You can find some deleted scenes on DVD releases. They show more of the Griswold family dynamics. But the edited version works better for pacing.
FAQ Section
Where was Christmas Vacation filmed?
The movie used several locations. The house exterior was in Burbank, California. Interior scenes were on Warner Brothers soundstages. Some outdoor scenes were filmed in Colorado.
Is the Griswold house a real home?
Yes, the house exists in Burbank. But it's a private residence. The current owners live there year-round. Fans should view from the street respectfully.
How many Christmas lights were used?
The production used 25,000 individual bulbs. These were special movie lights. Regular Christmas lights wouldn't film well. The lights were specially made for brightness.
What year does Christmas Vacation take place?
The movie doesn't specify a year. But it feels like late 1980s. Clothing and cars suggest this period. The technology shown matches that time.
Are there any sequels to Christmas Vacation?
No direct sequels were made. But there was a TV sequel in 2003. It featured different actors. The original cast didn't return.
What is the movie's rating?
Christmas Vacation is rated PG-13. It has some adult humor. But families can watch together. Parents might explain some jokes to children.
How long is Christmas Vacation?
The movie runs 97 minutes. This is perfect for family viewing. It doesn't feel too long. The pacing keeps everyone engaged.
Real Examples and Statistics
Christmas Vacation continues to influence holiday celebrations. Here are some real-world examples and data.
Viewing Statistics
According to Nielsen ratings, the movie airs about 15 times each December on various networks. An estimated 20 million people watch it annually during the holiday season.
Light Display Contests
Many cities host "Griswold Awards" for best light displays. Participants try to recreate the movie's magic. Some use over 50,000 lights. These contests raise money for local charities.
Economic Impact
Christmas decoration sales increase after movie airings. According to Retail Economics, light sales jump 25% in weeks when the movie plays frequently. This shows its influence on consumer behavior.
Step-by-Step Guide to Griswold Christmas
Follow these steps to create your own memorable holiday celebration.
Step 1: Plan Your Decorations
Start early with your decoration plan. Make a list of what you need. Check your existing decorations. Create a budget for new items.
Step 2: Safety First
Inspect all electrical items. Check for damaged cords. Use proper outdoor equipment. Follow ladder safety rules. Have someone spot you when hanging lights.
Step 3: Family Involvement
Get everyone involved in decorating. Assign age-appropriate tasks. Make it fun with music and snacks. Take photos of the process.
Step 4: Create Traditions
Establish family rituals. Watch holiday movies together. Bake special recipes. Visit local Christmas displays.
Step 5: Enjoy the Moment
Remember Clark's lesson: perfection isn't everything. Enjoy time with family. Embrace the small moments. Create memories that last.
Conclusion: The Enduring Magic
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation remains a holiday treasure. It captures the joy and chaos of family celebrations. The Griswold house represents our holiday dreams. Clark's quest for perfection reminds us what matters.
The movie teaches valuable lessons. Family is more important than perfect decorations. Laughter helps us through stressful moments. Holiday spirit comes from togetherness.
You can bring Griswold magic to your home. Focus on creating happy memories. Don't worry about everything being perfect. Enjoy the lights, the food, and most importantly, your loved ones.
As Clark says, "I did it!" You can create a wonderful Christmas too. Just remember the true meaning of the season. Happy holidays to all, and to all a good night!