The best Belconnen Christmas lights – 2016 edition

After the success of last year’s Best Belconnen Christmas lights, I had to get back out and again experience one of the things that really makes this time of year feel like Christmas to me. Here are my Top 3 picks for 2016!

120 Bingley Crescent, Fraser

I first came across this house while I was doorknocking during the election campaign. I asked the owner about what I saw to be a very impressive train set in the front yard and he encouraged me to come back in time for Christmas to see the display they put on.

Why is it so good?

It’s big. From the huge Christmas tree on top of the house to the various different things to see, it’s worth driving to and it’s worth stopping and getting out.

(It is a long time since I have blogged so my photography skills are a bit rusty okay!)

Next, said train set. It’s automated and it choo choos and there’s a lot to look at and admire.

There’s also a bubble machine and a (not real) Santa that you can sit on and pose with.

But the best bit is the miniature displays. Under cover are two miniature displays which are just mind boggling in terms of how much detail there is and what’s been achieved. There is so much to look at. I’m not going to spoil it for you by showing it all (notwithstanding it would have taken me a long time and much better photography skills) but here’s a peek.

Don’t miss it.

154 Tillyard Drive, Flynn

This is a suburb over from Fraser but it’s a short car trip away. I had seen this mentioned in passing in a random comment on an unrelated topic in a Facebook group, and it was easy for us to go past. And wow.

What makes it so good?

Firstly it has its own Facebook page!

It also has its own FM station. When I get back into the car we are suddenly blasting Christmas tunes but they disappear once we further down Tillyard – because it’s coming from this house! So cool.

But of course it’s the lights. The lights are 3D printed! And they look amazing. I am a bit embarrassed by how poor my photos are – they don’t do it justice.

There’s a bubble machine that is spitting out sooo many bubbles. It’s nothing short of impressive and kids are having a great time.

My artistic “look there are lots of bubbles” shot aka out of practice

There’s also a train! Not as good as the one at Bingley Crescent but still – a train!

And a cool snowman!

And a plasma ball! I’m not sure of its significance except maybe to amuse Generation Xers and Yers but I am impressed all the same.

Make the visit.

106 Archdall Street, Dunlop

Archdall Street lights are the only lights from last year to make it into my Top 3 again for this year.

What makes it worth visiting?

Basically, there is a LOT going on. Everywhere you look there’s something new to spot and enjoy, and a lot of things to step through and explore. There is a huge collection of Christmas here.

Archdall Street also has the best sense of humour.

Santa’s Weather Rock hangs off a fishing line

Santa’s Weather Rock explanatory board

And there’s this next door:

And remember:

• A lot of work has gone into these displays. For your enjoyment, the asking price is a donation to a charity of their choosing. Bring some loose change.
• There is a lot of traffic. Tillyard Drive in particular is on a main street as well as being a key attraction. It’s busy. Try to park on the eastern/Flynn side of the road so you don’t have to cross it.