Whitestone will be a little less jolly this holiday season.
Homeowner and decorator Kevin Lynch posted a regretful message to his personal Facebook page this week informing residents they will not see his spectacular Christmas light display at 166th Street and 23rd Avenue this time around.
After 23 years, the home will go dark for the holidays for the first time. Lynch said he wanted to take a year off and enjoy some of the neighborhood’s displays.
He also cited traffic conditions as another concern. At the peak of the season, dozens of cars and attendees can be seen descending on the Whitestone property to take in the sight. Lynch said he hopes to work more closely with the 109th Precinct to ensure everyone’s safety in years to come.
In a bit of good news, Lynch closes the post be saying he’ll be back next year “bigger and better.”
The home received national attention in 2013 when it was featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” where it was awarded first prize.
Lynch also is known for using the fantastic display as an opportunity to collect money for charitable causes. Last year, a collection box was set up outside to benefit St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children, a facility in Bayside that provides health and quality-of-life services for children with special needs and life-limiting conditions.
Check out photos from last year’s display here.
