In this 5th episode of the 5th season of Great Christmas Light Fight, four families compete to prove who has the best, brightest and most festive holiday light display. The Birketts from Scottsdale, AZ dazzled with their synchronized showmanship and extensive decorations. They were followed by the Gress family from Union Beach, NJ whose colorful displays filled their entire yard. The Latchford family from Callao, Missouri created an incredible theme of a “Winter Wonderland” complete with an ice palace, icicles and snowmen. Last but not least was the Shoaf family from Durham, North Carolina who put together a traditional display that included Christmas trees, Santa Claus, and carolers.
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All four families worked hard to create their spectacular holiday displays and hope to win the prize of $50,000 as well as the coveted Light Fight trophy. After much deliberation, judge Carter Oosterhouse ultimately awarded the grand prize to the Birkett family for their fantastic Christmas light display. With that, they join previous winners in the Great Christmas Light Fight to prove that it truly is possible to have your holiday dreams come true.
The original airing of the fifth episode of the fifth season of The Great Christmas Light Fight on December 18, 2017 was watched by over 4.23 million people. If you missed it, be sure to watch reruns or search online for clips as this one-of-a-kind holiday competition is not to be missed
The Great Christmas Light Fight Displays
The Birketts Christmas lights in Scottsdale, Arizona of the Great Christmas Light Fight
Winter Wonderland at 8414 E Valley Vista Dr in Scottsdale, AZ is a cherished holiday tradition that was born the Christmas of 1987. What started as creator Chris Birkett’s simple idea – fueled by the twinkling lights outside his window – has since grown into an amazing display of seasonal beauty and enchantment. Since its inception, the display has lived in five different homes, and even made an appearance at Schnepf Farm in 2005.
From Dec 8th until Jan 1st, visitors can expect to be dazzled by 265,000 twinkling lights. Nine computerized shows include snowfall, bubbles and pyrotechnics to light up the night sky. This season marks the 35th year of Winter Wonderland’s existence, a testament to its popularity and staying power.
The Gress Christmas lights in Union Beach, New Jersey of the Great Christmas Light Fight
The Gress House Holiday Light Spectacular in Union Beach is a holiday tradition that draws thousands of guests every Christmas Day. For more than 10 years, Brandon Gress and his family have been putting on an incredibly impressive show of lights and decorations throughout the neighborhood. He estimates that more than 250,000 lights adorn their home and surrounding area, making it a truly breathtaking sight. The family dedicates two months to the set-up process, arranging over 400 blow mold figures from different decades on their lawn and installing hundreds of strands of lights in all shapes and sizes.
Visitors are encouraged to leave donations in the family’s Santa mailbox on their porch, as all proceeds go to the Children’s Miracle Network. The Gress House provides a unique and unforgettable holiday experience for those visiting Union Beach or any of the other nearby towns. Every year, this spectacle brings cheer to thousands of people from all walks of life, making it a true testament to the spirit of Christmas. This is why it remains one of the most talked-about holiday attractions in the area.
The Latchford Christmas lights in Callao, Missouri of the Great Christmas Light Fight
The Latchford Christmas Light Display is a beloved holiday tradition and has been delighting area residents for more than two decades. Bruce Latchford, the mastermind behind the display, spends an average of six hours a day working on it as soon as setup begins. The display covers five acres and features many homemade items constructed by Latchford’s family and friends.
Visitors can take a walking tour of the display and are invited to snap photos with a cast of characters featured throughout the display. The Latchford Christmas Light Display is open nightly from 5:15 to 10 pm, weather permitting, through January First on 2nd Street in Callao. Admission is free, but cash donations are welcomed and encouraged.
The Shoaf Christmas lights in Durham, North Carolina of the Great Christmas Light Fight
Shoaf’s dedication to the lights show is evident when you look at the time and effort he puts in each year. It typically takes him around three days to set up the display, but once it’s done it’s like watching a work of art come alive. The display has become increasingly more intricate over the years, but the level of accuracy and detail that Shoaf achieves is remarkable.
In addition to the technical expertise he has developed over time, Michael also puts a lot of thought into how to make the show enjoyable for everyone. He always makes sure there’s a wide variety of colors and light patterns so that people can enjoy the show from the comfort of their cars or by walking around the neighborhood. He also takes into account the size and design of his house when it comes to lighting up different sections.
Every year, Michael adds a few new elements to the show to keep it fresh and exciting. This year he added an extra layer with laser lights that are synced up to the music. He also used some of his experience in lighting design to create a show that’s more dynamic and interactive than ever before.
The Shoaf family Christmas lights show has become a holiday tradition for many families in the Durham area. Year after year, people come out to enjoy the spectacle of thousands of twinkling lights, perfectly choreographed to festive Christmas tunes. For Michael Shoaf, this is his way of bringing joy to the community and sharing his love for all things lights-related with everyone who visits.
The Great Christmas Light Fight Season 5 Episode 5 Hosts
About the Great Christmas Light Fight’s Taniya Nayak
Her dedication to improving lives with creativity and compassion has earned her a spot as one of the most beloved design personalities in the US.
Taniya Nayak’s impressive career as a designer, TV host, and entrepreneur has seen her become an internationally renowned expert in transforming spaces. Taniya is well-known for her appearances on HGTV’s Restaurant Impossible and A&E’s Flipping Boston, showcasing her expertise in interior design. She is often sought-after by celebrities, designers and publications to share her ideas on transforming spaces with flair and style.
In 2009, Taniya Nayak launched her own design business, Taniya Nayak Design. This provides design services to hospitality establishments and businesses across the country. Her debut book ‘The Power of Positivity: Transforming Your Life Using the 10 Principles of Positive Thinking’ was released in 2017 and has been praised for its insights.
Taniya’s commitment to making a difference goes beyond design and décor, extending to the holiday décor and special needs communities. She was chosen as one of the judges for ABC’s popular holiday competition show The Great Christmas Light Fight, together with host Carter Oosterhouse, to help families win a $50,000 prize. Additionally, Taniya regularly visits children’s hospitals all over the US for cancer awareness and supports Special Olympics Massachusetts as an honorary celebrity coach/mentor. Her efforts to improve the lives of others through her creativity and compassion has made her one of the most beloved design personalities in the US.
About the Great Christmas Light Fight’s Carter Oosterhouse
Carter Oosterhouse is an American television host, author, and carpenter. He is most widely known for his work on the shows Trading Spaces, Red Hot & Green, and Carter Can. With two books under his belt – Carter’s Big Book of Home Solutions and Byron’s Crow’s Nest- he has inspired many to tackle their own do-it-yourself home improvement projects. His interest in woodworking began as a child in his father’s carpentry shop. After working in construction for some time he broke into television hosting with Trading Spaces where he quickly gained recognition as a sought-after spokesperson for various brands, charities, and organizations. Most recently, Carter has been dedicated to his Carter’s Kids program through Habitat for Humanity which builds homes for children in need all over the United States.
Carter Oosterhouse is also the executive producer of The Great Christmas Light Fight. Through this show, families from across America have had the chance to create stunning holiday light displays and compete for a grand prize worth $50,000. But that’s not all — Oosterhouse is also committed to helping dog rescues throughout California with Doggy Bonez & Catnip Dreams Animal Rescue in North Hollywood and Senior Paws Pet Adoptions in Sherman Oaks. Thanks to him, many animals have found their forever homes this festive season!
With his credentials and passion, Carter Oosterhouse is truly a master of all trades. He continues to inspire DIYers through his work in television and books as well as making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate by giving them access to safe homes. Through his kindness and generosity, he has become an extraordinary role model for many people around the world.