Locals Getting a Head Start On The Holidays With Annual Display of Lights

By Janet Cruz

It is never to early to get into the holiday spirit. Some get their holiday shopping done early or get that tree up, and others like to get a head start on getting their Christmas lights and displays a month ahead just like Lake Havasu residents Bob and Lori Oliva.

“This is my favorite time of year. I usually get my lights up way too soon,” says Lake Havasu Resident Bob Oliva. “Some people like to decorate for Halloween but I like to go all out for Christmas,” he said.

The couple have over a million lights and it doesn’t stop just at lights. The Olivas like to display throughout their house themed Christmas trees. Some of those trees include a traditional Christmas tree and a children’s tree with rocking horses, perfect for kids.

Lights of Havasu List Bob Olivia Christmas House

Lori Oliva decorates a Christmas tree in her home. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“My favorite is the Children’s Tree; it’s so special because it has ornaments for the grand kids,” Lori Oliva said.

Havasu residents may recognize their home when they drove down Green Drive last year. Getting their display up is a annual tradition and they say each year people ask when their display will be up. They have been busy getting those lights up earlier this year. Passersby may have seen a waving Santa, and this year they might see a classic Chevy truck with a lit Christmas tree inside.

“Similar to classic Christmas displays you see at many stores that truck with the tree in the back is a classic,” says Lori Oliva.

Over the years, they have collected all types of lights. They have ranged from the traditional bulbs to switching it up to LED ones. They say the pressure is always on to get their lights up early since their home is a regular favorite that people love to come by and watch.

Bob Oliva decorates his house for Christmas. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“I know now I will get it all done by November 15 “no pressure” Bob Oliva said.

The Olivas said each year it changes and they add something new or different. Back in 2020 when there were many closures, it was very important to the couple to spread cheer to those who wanted to drive by and look.

“We wanted to spread some cheer to many during such an isolating time,” added Lori Oliva. “Now that things have been opening up more in the past years we love doing this.”

The couple’s favorite part of their displays is not only the cheer it brings to their home, but most importantly to the families that come see them.

Lights of Havasu List Bob Oliva Christmas House

Bob Oliva places lights in his front yard. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“I love that it gets us in the holiday cheer but most of all seeing the children see our lights and display,” Bob Oliva said.

The Olivas will have their completed display of lights after Nov. 15, and invite all to see their home at 2300 Green Drive. It will also be on the RiverScene Magazine “Lights of Havasu List.”

To list a home on the RiverScene Magazine “Lights of Havasu List,” submit it to the lights form by clicking here: https://riverscenemagazine.com/lights-of-havasu-form/