Southwest Austin family's annual Christmas lights display attracts thousands
AUSTIN, Texas - Year after year the Maywald family's love of all things Christmas attracts thousands of people to their home in southwest Austin.
They spend about a year decorating for their annual Christmas lights display which is open to the public and attracts people from all over the country to feel the love of the holidays, and laughter too.
“Oh and I have to laugh when I tell you this one it's the Santa laying on the bench. Burt Reynolds back in the day did the centerfold for Playgirl and he's lying on this bench and he looks just like that," Rhonda Maywald said.
Rhonda says her son Jordan is finishing finals at Texas A&M but he sketches and plans for months, buying unique pieces from all over the world. His work has even gained national television attention.
In 2017 they used 80,000 lights, in 2018 they used 120,000 lights, and this year their display has 150,000 lights.
“Over 40 trees on the property covered in lights and 296 blow molds,” Maywald said..
There's a great cause behind it too. This year, the flying deer above the lake by the lighthouse represent how many wishes they've granted through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Last year they had three flying deer; this year there are six.
“The entire display is vintage and nostalgic so it's like stepping back in time and it kinda takes you out of the hustle and bustle of every day,” Maywald said.
They're open every single day from 6 to 10 p.m. from the weekend before Thanksgiving through January 4th. The only time they’re closed is when it’s raining.
To learn more, visit their website or Facebook page.