Decking the Halls: Whidbey Island’s Festive Spirit Shines Bright

As the holiday season comes to a close, Whidbey Island is aglow with festive cheer. From colorful light displays to inflatable lawn ornaments, the island’s residents have gone all out to spread joy and festive spirit.

In the Scatchet Head neighborhood in Clinton, Jim Young’s house has become a beloved landmark, thanks to his impressive collection of blow-up penguins, snowmen, and Santa Clauses. What started as a way to entertain his grandkids 20 years ago has turned into a beloved tradition, with many passersby stopping to admire the display and even leaving cookies as a thank you.

Festive fun on Whidbey Island

But Young isn’t the only one spreading holiday cheer. At the corner of Hastie Lake Road and West Beach Road in Oak Harbor, Debra and John Sims have created an extravagant light display that’s become an annual fixture in the neighborhood. This year’s display features Christmas classics alongside less conventional characters like dinosaurs, a sea monster, and a pod of orcas.

A dazzling display of lights on Whidbey Island

The Sims’ display is more than just a pretty sight – it’s also a labor of love. It takes them, their daughter, and son-in-law about 10 days to set it all up, and they’ve even added a walk-in area this year. And in a heartwarming twist, their daughter, Lauren Sinclair, replied to almost every letter to Santa left in a special mailbox, bringing joy to 82 children in total.

“It kind of keeps that part of Christmas alive, even when you’re not experiencing it yourself.” - Lauren Sinclair

As the holiday season comes to a close, Whidbey Island’s festive spirit is a reminder that the true magic of the season lies in the joy and wonder it brings to people of all ages.

Spreading joy and festive spirit on Whidbey Island