National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation was filmed in various locations in California and Colorado. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, a classic holiday comedy film, was shot in multiple locations across California and Colorado.
The movie showcases the hilarious misadventures of the Griswold family as they prepare for Christmas. Released in 1989, this iconic film is beloved for its quirky characters, slapstick humour, and heartwarming moments. Throughout the movie, viewers are treated to breathtaking scenery, from the snow-covered landscapes of Breckenridge, Colorado to the picturesque suburban neighbourhood in Burbank, California.
With its memorable scenes and timeless humour, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has become a staple in holiday film rotations, bringing laughter and joy to audiences year after year.
Setting The Scene: The Iconic Griswold Family’S Christmas Misadventures
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday film that has captured the hearts of many viewers. Released in 1989, the movie follows the comical mishaps of the Griswold family as they prepare for and celebrate Christmas. Its popularity has endured over the years, with fans eagerly rewatching the humorous antics of Clark Griswold and his family.
The film was primarily filmed in various locations in California, despite being set in the fictional town of Hohman, Illinois. The Griswold family house, one of the iconic settings in the movie, was actually a specially built set located on a Warner Bros. Studio backlot. Other notable filming locations include the Warner Ranch in Burbank and the Street of the Stars in Los Angeles.
With its enduring popularity and memorable setting, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation continues to be a cherished part of many families’ holiday traditions.
A Stroll Down Memory Lane: The Griswold’s House Exterior
A stroll down memory lane: The Griswold’s house exterior in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation holds a special place in the hearts of fans. The real location of the Griswold family home can now be revealed, offering an intriguing look into where this iconic holiday film was filmed.
Examinations of the architectural features are an exciting aspect for enthusiasts, as the house is located at 1124 Kuester Street in South Pasadena. This charming residence became the perfect backdrop for the Griswold’s hilarious and chaotic adventures.
The memorable scenes captured here are forever etched in our minds – the web of Christmas lights, the iconic sledging accident, and the unforgettable arrival of Cousin Eddie’s RV. This beloved home continues to embody the spirit of the holiday season, drawing visitors who seek to experience the film’s magic firsthand.
Taking A Tour Inside: The Griswold’s Living Room And Kitchen
Have you ever wondered where the iconic living room and kitchen of the Griswold family from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation were filmed? Well, get ready to take a tour inside and unveil the interior filming locations of the Griswold’s house.
The Griswold’s living room and kitchen were actually filmed on a set, rather than in a real house. The set was carefully designed to capture the essence of a typical suburban family’s home during the holiday season.
The living room features a cosy fireplace, adorned with festive decorations and a large Christmas tree. The walls are painted in warm, inviting colours, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The furniture is arranged to create a comfortable seating area for the family to gather and celebrate together.
In the kitchen, you’ll find all the essential elements of a traditional family kitchen. The countertops are cluttered with baking supplies and holiday treats, while the cabinets are filled with dishes and festive kitchenware. The breakfast nook is a charming spot for enjoying meals and sharing laughter.
Overall, the layout and design details of the Griswold’s living room and kitchen perfectly capture the holiday spirit and add to the comedic charm of the film. So, next time you watch Christmas Vacation, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the thought and creativity that went into creating these iconic scenes.
Neighbourhood Explorations: The Surrounding Houses And Exteriors
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday movie that has captured the hearts of many. As fans, we often find ourselves wondering where exactly the film was shot. Specifically, in this blog post, we will explore the neighbouring houses and exteriors that were featured in the movie. Highlighting the different styles and characteristics of these filming locations adds to the overall charm and nostalgia of the film. By taking a closer look at these houses, we can appreciate the attention to detail that went into creating the perfect setting for the Griswold family’s chaotic Christmas adventures.
The Magical Winter Wonderland: The Snow-Covered Locations
The film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, was primarily filmed in two locations to create the magical winter wonderland depicted on screen. The snowy landscapes were captured in both the states of Colorado and California. The challenges faced during the filming of snow and winter scenes were significant. Filming in snowy conditions requires careful planning and coordination, especially when it comes to snowfall consistency and continuity across different scenes. The production team had to ensure that the snow-covered sets aligned seamlessly with the story’s narrative and the desired holiday atmosphere. Attention to detail was crucial, from maintaining consistent snow levels to creating realistic snowball fights and building snowmen. These meticulous efforts helped immerse the audience in the whimsical world of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
The Shopping Frenzy: Where Clark Griswold Gets Into Trouble
The shopping frenzy in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” takes viewers on a hilarious journey through various department stores. Unravelling the filming locations of these epic shopping scenes reveals some real-life stores that played significant roles in the plot.
One notable location is the fictional Hinkley’s department store, actually filmed at the old Marshall Field’s flagship store on State Street in Chicago. In the movie, Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, experiences countless mishaps and misadventures while shopping there. This iconic store is famous for its elaborate holiday window displays and has become synonymous with the Christmas season.
Furthermore, another crucial store is the real-life American discount department store, Kmart. It is featured prominently in the movie when Clark Griswold’s cousin, Eddie, kidnaps Clark’s boss and brings him to this store. The chaotic scenes filmed inside Walmart showcase the desperation and humour that arises from holiday shopping.
These real store locations add an authentic touch to the film and play an essential role in shaping the comedic narrative of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
It’s All Fun And Games: The Lighting Ceremony And Neighborhood Scenes
It’s all fun and games in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. The lighting ceremony and neighbourhood scenes play a significant role in capturing the festive spirit of the movie.
To investigate the festive lighting ceremony location, let’s explore the various scenes shot within the neighbourhood. From the Griswold family’s iconic residence to the neighbours’ houses, each location contributes to the hilarious and chaotic plot.
One can’t forget the famous lighting ceremony scene, where Clark Griswold attempts to illuminate his house with an extravagant display of Christmas lights, resulting in humorous yet disastrous results. The exact location of the lighting ceremony adds to the movie’s charm.
| Scene | Neighbourhood Location |
|---|---|
| Griswold Residence | 3116 W Palmer Blvd, Chicago, IL |
| Neighbor’s House | 3159 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL |
| Lighting Ceremony | Undisclosed Location |
The neighbourhood setting of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is essential in creating the atmosphere of holiday cheer, comedic chaos, and memorable moments that have made the movie a beloved part of the Christmas season.
From Sledding To Skiing: The Outdoor Adventure Scenes
In National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, the outdoor adventure scenes provide a thrilling backdrop to the fun-filled holiday chaos. Filmmakers meticulously chose natural settings to capture the excitement of sledging and skiing. These action-packed sequences were carefully evaluated for practicality and logistics.
The sledging scenes were filmed in various locations to depict different slopes and terrains. From bustling city streets to serene countryside hills, the film expertly showcased the diversity of outdoor settings.
For the skiing sequences, filmmakers sought out picturesque mountainsides that embodied the beauty and thrill of winter sports. The scenic landscapes enhanced the sense of adventure and spectacle on the big screen.
By meticulously selecting natural locations, the film successfully transported viewers into the heart of thrilling outdoor activities. From sledging to skiing, the action-packed scenes in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation truly brought the holiday spirit to life.
Making Merry At The Griswold’s Relatives: The Extended Family’s Homes
| Filming Locations | Roles in the Movie |
|---|---|
| Clark’s parents’ house | Setting for the memorable holiday dinner and the arrival of Clark’s eccentric cousin, Eddie |
| Husband of Clark’s cousin’s house | Home to Clark’s cousin, Catherine, and her husband, Todd, known for their extravagant Christmas decorations |
| Clark’s in-laws’ house | The Griswold family gathers here for Christmas Eve, where Clark’s father-in-law, Art, battles the neighbours in a legendary light display contest |
| Neighbour’s house | A focal point of the movie, it’s where Clark’s holiday light extravaganza causes a city-wide power outage |
| Clark’s boss’ house | Visited during Clark’s attempt to procure a Christmas bonus, leading to a memorable run-in with the boss’ blonde bombshell secretary |
The filming locations of the Griswold’s relatives’ houses in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation each play a significant role in the movie’s narrative. Clark’s parents’ house sets the stage for the memorable holiday dinner and the arrival of his quirky cousin Eddie.
Meanwhile, his cousin Catherine and her husband Todd make their mark with extravagant Christmas decorations at their own home. The Griswold family gathers at Clark’s in-laws’ house for Christmas Eve, where his father-in-law Art battles neighbours in a legendary light display contest.
The neighbour’s house becomes a focal point when Clark’s ambitious light display causes chaos across the city. Lastly, Clark’s boss’ house is visited during his pursuit of a Christmas bonus, resulting in an amusing encounter with his boss’s secretary. These locations add depth and humour to the beloved Christmas movie.
On The Road Again: The Memorable Road Trip Scenes
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday classic that takes viewers on a memorable road trip journey. The movie features several iconic road trip scenes that were filmed at various locations. Identifying the routes and landmarks filmed during the family’s road trips adds to the movie’s charm and authenticity.
These scenes play a significant role in the movie’s storyline, showcasing the Griswold family’s adventures and misadventures on their way to their destination. From encountering hilarious mishaps on the highway to visiting interesting landmarks along the way, these road trip scenes contribute to the overall comedic and heartwarming nature of the film.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’s road trip scenes offer an exciting and relatable glimpse into the joys and challenges of travelling during the holiday season.
When National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Becomes A Winter Wonderland
Most of the filming for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation took place in various locations throughout Los Angeles, even though the story is set in suburban Chicago. The Griswold family’s iconic house, for example, can be found on a residential street in Studio City, California.
The movie perfectly captured the holiday spirit by transforming these filming locations into a magical winter wonderland. The streets were adorned with festive decorations and covered in a blanket of snow. The Griswold family’s house was adorned with elaborate Christmas lights that became an instant symbol of holiday cheer.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has not only become a beloved holiday movie but has also influenced holiday traditions and celebrations. The movie’s humorous and relatable portrayal of family gatherings during the holiday season has resonated with audiences for decades. It has become a yearly tradition for many families to watch the movie together and incorporate elements from the film into their own holiday celebrations.
Whether it’s hanging lights on the roof or hosting a festive family dinner, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has left its mark on the way we celebrate Christmas.
Bloopers And Trivia: Behind The Scenes Of Filming National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Sharing interesting facts, bloopers, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the filming, this article unveils lesser-known details about the movie-making process.
The filming of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation took place in various locations. The iconic Griswold family home, where most of the movie is set, was a custom-built set located on the Warner Bros. backlot in Burbank, California. This realistic and detailed set allowed the filmmakers complete control over the environment.
The outdoor shots featuring bright and festive Christmas lights were filmed in a neighbourhood called “Gamble House”. The production team used over ten thousand individual lights to create the dazzling display viewers see in the film. Interestingly, the homeowners of that neighbourhood agreed to keep their holiday decorations up until March so that the filmmakers had enough time to capture the scenes they needed.
| Location | Scene |
|---|---|
| Colorado | The scene where Clark Griswold cuts down the oversized Christmas tree |
| Warner Bros. Studios | The Griswold family home and interiors |
| Los Angeles | Department store scenes |
The Enduring Legacy: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation In Popular Culture
Reflecting on the enduring popularity and cultural significance of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation in the Christmas movie genre, it’s fascinating to dive into where the film was actually filmed. This 1989 classic was primarily shot in various locations in California, USA.
The Griswold family’s iconic house can be found in a neighbourhood called “Whipple Street” in Burbank, Los Angeles. The interior scenes, however, were all filmed on a soundstage in Burbank.
Other notable locations in California used for shooting include Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank and the Warner Ranch in Burbank. The Christmas tree lot scenes were filmed at a real tree lot located in Chatsworth, Los Angeles.
While the movie takes place in the fictional town of Haverbrook, Illinois, its charm and relatability have resonated with audiences all over the world. Even though the film wasn’t actually filmed in Illinois, it continues to be cherished as a beloved Christmas classic.
Recreating The Griswold Magic: Locations To Visit For Fans
If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you may be wondering where it was filmed and if you can visit these iconic locations. Well, you’re in luck!
There are several real-life places you can visit to relive the experience of the Griswold family’s holiday adventures. One such location is the Warner Bros. Ranch in Burbank, California, where the exterior shots of the Griswold house were filmed. While the interior scenes were shot on a soundstage, seeing the house in person can be a surreal experience.
Another must-visit location is Randy’s Donuts in Inglewood, California, where the famous scene with Clark Griswold and the impossibly large Christmas tree took place. Grab a doughnut and snap a photo in front of the iconic giant doughnut sign.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider taking a holiday lights tour in the Los Angeles area. These tours often include stops at various locations featured in the movie, allowing you to see the Christmas lights in all their glory.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a bit of holiday nostalgia, visiting these locations can truly recreate the Griswold magic. So pack your bags and get ready to spend the holidays in the world of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation!
Lights, Camera, Action: The Impact Of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation On Filming Locations
Lights, camera, action! National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday film that has had a significant impact on filming locations. The success of this movie has sparked curiosity among fans about where it was filmed and the implications it had on local economies and tourism. Analyzing the potential effects of the film’s popularity on filming locations reveals a boost in tourism and economic growth for these areas.
The movie was filmed in various locations, including Los Angeles and Colorado, capturing the essence of the holiday season in different settings. The depiction of charming neighbourhoods decorated with elaborate Christmas lights has made these places iconic for fans of the film. As a result, fans often seek out these locations, bringing in increased tourism revenues to local businesses.
Furthermore, the success of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has contributed to the long-term popularity of these filming locations. Many fans make it a tradition to visit these areas during the holiday season, creating sustained interest and economic benefits for years to come.
| Impacts | Local Economies | Tourism |
|---|---|---|
| Increased spending | The influx of tourists generates additional revenue for local businesses. | Fans who visit filming locations contribute to the growth of tourism in these areas. |
| Job creation | The rise in tourism creates new employment opportunities in various sectors. | Local tourism booms, leading to the creation of jobs in hospitality, retail, and other related industries. |
| Community pride | The recognition and association with a popular movie boosts community pride and appreciation for these areas. | Increased tourism fosters a sense of pride and identity among locals. |
Closing Thoughts On The Magical Filming Locations Of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
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Reflecting on the enduring charm and enduring appeal of this holiday classic, fans are often curious about the filming locations of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. The movie was shot in various places, contributing to its engaging and relatable storyline. One location that stands out is the Griswold house, located in a residential area in Burbank, California. This iconic home served as the backdrop for many memorable scenes, showcasing the festive and chaotic spirit of the holidays. In addition to the Griswold house, the film also utilized other significant locations. The lively department store scenes were filmed at the now-defunct Wanamaker’s department store in Chicago, Illinois. The holiday shopping frenzy was portrayed vividly in this setting, adding to the movie’s comedic appeal. Furthermore, the picturesque town square scenes featuring a beautifully lit Christmas tree were filmed in the picturesque town of Breckenridge, Colorado. The scenes captured the festive atmosphere and quaint charm of a small-town holiday celebration, providing a delightful contrast to the Griswold family’s chaotic holiday adventures. |
Credit: www.set-jetter.com
Frequently Asked Questions On Where Was National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Filmed
Was National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Filmed In Colorado?
No, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation was not filmed in Colorado. While the movie is set in the fictional town of “Valley Village, Illinois,” the actual filming took place in and around the Chicago area. The snowy scenes were created using artificial snow and special effects, as filming took place during the summer months.
How Did They Create The Fake Snow In National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?
To create the fake snow in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, a combination of materials and techniques was used. This included using paper and plastic snow, as well as fake snow-making machines. The special effects team also used foam and soap-based snow for certain scenes.
The result was a realistic winter wonderland, despite filming taking place during warmer months.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we explored the filming locations of the beloved holiday classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. From the Griswold family home in Illinois to the beautifully decorated street in California, we discovered the real-life settings that brought this comedy to life.
Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply curious about movie magic, knowing where Christmas Vacation was filmed adds an extra layer of appreciation to the film. So next time you watch the movie, you can enjoy the scenery along with the laughs.
Happy holidays and happy watching!
