Lexington’s Jurassic Christmas: Where Dinosaurs Roam Among Holiday Lights
As the holiday season rolls around, most folks swap out pumpkins for Christmas trees, but not the Price family in Lexington. Oh no! Their yard is transformed into a spectacular dinosaur wonderland that will leave you scratching your head in disbelief. Yes, you read that right – dinosaurs! The backyard of their home situated on Augusta Road/Highway 1 is buzzing with a menagerie of all things prehistoric, decked out in twinkling holiday lights.
A Landmark in the Making
Christopher Price, the clever mastermind behind this dino-display, shares that his artistic adventure started a couple of years ago, all in the name of fun for his two young sons, aged 8 and 6. His first dinosaur debuted for Halloween 2022, and now, it has blossomed into a dazzling collection of 11 fascinating foam figures. “It’s become a bit of a landmark,” Christopher cheerfully points out, acknowledging the fame his yard has gained over time.
Some dinosaurs, like the giant T. rex affectionately dubbed “Lex,” are permanent fixtures, while others come out mainly for Halloween and Christmas. After a lengthy deliberation on whether to pack them away post-Halloween, the family voted to keep them up a little longer, with the boys expressing their enthusiasm for their prehistoric pals. “Sorry, you’ve been outvoted,” he chuckled, recounting the playful family debate.
Dinosaur Delights
Each dinosaur in this quirky collection showcases a specific species, with creations ranging from mesmerizing pterodactyls to swift velociraptors. Surprisingly, the star of the show is the very first dinosaur Christopher crafted, featuring an ankylosaurus – known for its armored exterior, complete with individual scales and a tail club. These statues take on a remarkably vibrant life at night when they are beautifully illuminated for all to see, especially for drivers passing by on the bustling highway.
Anyone who gets a closer look on the back of these dinosaurs might be surprised, as they’re simple flat boards kept upright but designed to wobble gently in the breeze without breaking. Having never tackled a project this big before, the dinosaurs were a radical leap from crafting megalodon shark teeth that Christopher had made prior, aimed at his son’s special interest.
Jurassic Park Inspiration
The inspiration for this awe-inspiring dino display largely springs from the cult classic “Jurassic Park.” Among the highlights is a charming replica of the iconic Jeep from the movie, crossing over a stream of shimmering blue Christmas lights. And if you fancy a cheeky nod to the film, you’ll catch sight of a triceratops positioned as if it’s lying helplessly on its side, just like the beloved scene from the movie.
Dressed Up for a Cause
This year, Christopher decided to paint Lex a vibrant pink as part of a fundraiser supporting the American Cancer Society, aimed at breast cancer research and treatment. Lex’s new pink hue is emblazoned with the names of 80 inspiring individuals who have battled cancer, making it not just a display of creativity but also a symbol of hope. Thanks to the campaign, Christopher proudly reports raising a whopping $1,500, emphasizing the joy he found in supporting such a worthy cause.
A Hub of Community Joy
The dinosaur extravaganza has garnered a significant buzz in the community, especially being located on a busy highway. Last Halloween, over 300 trick-or-treaters made their way to the Price household, all eager for a photo op with the dinosaurs. “I’ve got other ideas, but I can’t get away from dinosaurs,” Christopher shared with a grin. “That’s kind of what’s given me my notoriety.”
So, if you find yourself in Lexington this holiday season, don’t forget to swing by the Price family’s home and bask in the delightful chaos of dinosaurs celebrating Christmas!
