Extreme Decorations: Carter Christmas Lights Show

(ABC 6 News) – Every Wednesday in December, ABC 6 News Good Morning reporter Sydney Zatz is sharing how people in our community celebrate “big” for the holidays. For her next installment in her “Extreme Decorations” series, she headed to Albert Lea for the Carter Christmas Lights Show.

Every year, the Carter family puts together a large LED light display synchronized to music. The lights originally started in 2014 when the family lived in Austin. The next year, they began synching the lights to the music. This year’s display can be heard on 93.5 FM and features songs from Mariah Carey, Lindsey Sterling, and Skyway Avenue.

The house is made up of more than 40,000 lights (27,000+ traditional LED, and 13,000-pixel lights) and 230+ extension cords. Mike Carter, the homeowner said he starts programming the lights show in March and works on setting it up in late September.

The display runs through December 30th with lights running from 5-9 p.m. every ten minutes Sunday through Thursday. The light display runs until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The house is located at 1905 Brookside Drive in Albert Lea. For the best view, you’re asked to enter on Bayview Drive and to dim your car lights once you’re parked.

Any donations raised through the season will be given to Meals on Wheels – SEMCAC in Freeborn County. As of Wednesday morning, nearly $900 has been raised. The Carter family picks a different charity each year based on the needs of the community.

If you would like to be a part of the Extreme Decorations series, email Sydney Zatz at szatz@kaaltv.com.