Maybe it’s your family tradition to return to the same holiday lights display every year — often the weekend after Thanksgiving when everyone is desperate to get out of the house and whining about eating more leftovers. Maybe you seek out a new one where you are visiting friends and relatives. One thing is certain:…

There’s one in every town. Sometimes it’s the local Christmas light bug who sets the night ablaze with electric winter wonderlands—while shorting out the grid—each season. Or in Becker, Minnesota, it’s Paul Larcom packing together life-sized snow dinosaurs on his front lawn. Erected mid-January, his giant snow T-rex—complete with long tail; dragon-like body; gaping, roaring jaws; and…

Albuquerque resident Michael Coffing is a self-described Christmas “light bug.” He even bought his new house based on Christmas light dramatic potential and optimal viewing location. Every year, the 37-year-old dad puts on a Christmas light show like no other, incorporating his favorite musical tunes—music taking center stage in Coffing’s decorations—which he programs with lights…