Return of the Allison Christmas Spectacular brings joy for years to come
Daniel Allison (left) and his parents, Kevin and Gloria Allison, are responsible for the extravagant and stunning holiday light display in Havana that has come to be one of the most anticipated holiday attractions in the Florida Panhandle
For the past 14 years, the Allison Christmas Spectacular has put on a light show like no other, and now the celebration has become even bigger than before.
What started as a dream for Daniel Allison and his parents, Kevin and Gloria Allison, has now become one of the most anticipated holiday attractions in the Florida Panhandle, as the Allison’s debut a record-breaking quarter of a million-light display this season.
“It’s a big thing now which is amazing to see,” said Daniel. “Our first year we only had just over 40,000 lights and we have grown since then. It’s amazing to see where it has grown to and where it is continuing to grow. Who knows where this could be in five years.”
The Allison Christmas Spectacular is free to enter and view, but the Allison family does ask that those who are able make donations to support the deputy who assists with traffic during the show, and to help fund future shows. This year, the Allisons are also collecting food drive donations.
The Allisons have prepared for this occasion since mid-July.
The entire setup consists of nearly a mile of wiring that is routed underneath the ground by hand, all by Kevin Allison.
Each Christmas light display includes power amps, channel boxes, and high definition surround speakers.
The lights will also dance in sequence across 16 new columns, 12 mini trees, three mega-trees, and many more.
The Allison’s fund the event majority out-of-pocket; all proceeds gathered from donations are used for future shows and installation expenses.
This year, the family wanted to go the extra mile and participate in a canned food drive for a local charity.
“It means a lot to see all those people on the road loving the show and being a part of it,” said Kevin Allison. “They’re [spectators] clapping, cheering, and singing along with the music. It’s truly amazing.”
Donations are accepted outside the entrance of the Allison’s driveway.
Spectators may enjoy the show from their vehicle while tuned in live from 102.5 FM radio station as they drive-by safely as the local police will be at the site to aid traffic flow.
This year the light show will feature 12 classical Christmas songs, light sequences across 16 columns, 12 mini trees, three mega-trees, and many more.
This year the light show will feature 12 classical Christmas songs, light sequences across 16 columns, 12 mini trees, three mega-trees, and many more
The light show is free and no tickets are required.
The display will be displayed through New Year’s from 6-10 p.m. nightly, at 240 Sandy Creek Road, just south of Havana.
Adrian Andrews – Gadsden County News Service