Many Queens residents go to great lengths to decorate their homes for Christmas. But one Whitestone family is attracting hundreds of visitors for their holiday display. NY1's Shannan Ferry filed the following report.
Santa Claus, sparkling lights, and lots of smiles.
A home at 166-04 23rd Avenue in Whitestone is spreading holiday cheer to all.
"It's so colorful," said one kid.
"It's amazing," said another.
Retired FDNY Firefighter Kevin Lynch decorates his home every year.
He said it all started more than two decades ago with just a few lights, but his collection kept on growing.
"At first it was a competition, now it's not a competition, I've won all the competitions, I don't need to win anymore! Now it's for fun," he said.
Visiting the Lynch house has become a Christmas time tradition for many families.
Dubbed "Santa's Corner" you can look up and see good old St. Nick in the window.
"I freaked out in a good way, and I wish um, this house was public and people can stay in it," said another visitor.
Lynch also sets up a donation box to raise money for St. Mary's Children's Hospital.
"To me it's a very dear cause, I have three healthy kids," he said.
The display has grabbed the attention of people from around the world. Margaret Hooper and Emma Kate visited from Ireland.
"I'm blown away, the effort that went into it, and the time it must've taken to do this," said Hooper.
Lynch said putting the decorations up and taking them down the entire process can take up to six months.
"At first I thought he was nuts, but then it is exciting when you see everyone's faces," said Tina Lynch, who is Kevin's wife.
"Look at the people around! All smiling running around kids, jumping around, having a good time, oh it's a fantastic time of year," said Lynch.
Lynch said since his house has become so popular, he will have traffic control officers this year.
The display will be up through January 6.