BY JULI KNUTSON

Chad Snead may be known as the Grinch at the Heart of Lebanon Christmas on the Square event, but when it comes to his own holiday traditions, his Christmas spirit is anything but grinchy.

Each year, Snead Family Lights brings Christmas cheer with a display of about 8,000 lights on and around their home, synchronized to holiday music. A nativity scene and a cross are always focal points of the display, complemented by traditional and modern Christmas images, brought to life by lights of every color moving in time with the music.

“We do this because of the joy it brings to the people who stop by,” Snead said. “Some stick around for a while; the full program runs about 30 minutes. People are respectful, and all the feedback has been positive. It’s fun to brighten someone’s day.” 

Songs range from traditional Christmas carols to pop selections, parodies, and even a few clips from The Grinch movie that were added last year. The playlist changes each season with plenty of input from the Snead’s three high schoolers.

Inspired by online videos of elaborate light shows, Chad and his wife, Samantha, decided to step up their own outdoor decorating for the holidays. In 2021, they launched their first large-scale Christmas display programmed to music. They have been lighting up winter nights ever since.

Drawing on his background in electronics, Chad customized the display’s electrical setup and structural elements to achieve the desired effect while ensuring stability, safety, and ease of installation. The Sneads use LED lights exclusively, along with smart receivers and two dedicated circuits. 

Boone Power Energy Advisor Dustin Baker recommends LEDs, as well as technology like timers and controls, to other Boone Power members considering holiday light displays. 

“A bright display doesn’t have to mean a big increase in energy use,” Baker said, “LEDs use less electricity than traditional incandescent lights, making them a more energy-conscious choice for seasonal decorating. Additionally, timers and Wi-Fi-enabled controls can automatically turn displays off at certain times to avoid unnecessary energy use.” 

The Sneads put those kinds of controls to work as part of their display, which operates during designated hours rather than throughout the night.

Over time, the Sneads have added a smaller light display for Halloween and will often recognize other holidays and occasional sporting events with colored lights as well. 

For local resident Wendy McCloskey, the Sneads’ display has become a tradition her family looks forward to each year. “Our grandkids especially!” she said. “They do such an amazing job.”

To amp up the holiday cheer this season, drive by 3335 Elm Swamp Road in Lebanon. Snead Family Lights will light up winter evenings from the Friday after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Find hours, additional photos, and other information on the Snead Family Lights Facebook page.

Holiday lighting safety tips

Holiday lights brighten up our homes in the winter, but we need to keep safety top of mind. The Lebanon Fire Department reminds us of these important safety tips for holiday decorating.

Ensure all holiday lights are UL or ETL certified.

Check every light strand for frayed or bare wires, broken bulbs, and damaged sockets. 

Consider upgrading any older incandescent light strands to LEDs. Not only do they use less energy, but they run cooler, reducing fire risk.

Check the packaging to determine how many amps are safe, so you know how many strands you should connect together.

Consider a dedicated outdoor circuit when creating a large light display. Outdoor outlets may be connected to indoor circuits, which could pose a risk of overloading the circuit.

Only use lights labeled for outdoor use, and plug them into a GFCI outlet. 

When hanging lights outdoors, keep ladders away from power lines. 

Do not use metal staples with string lights. Only use hangers designed for light strands.