Continuing a 37-year tradition, Lynn and Robert Gatchell of Oak Bluffs have festooned their house at 148 County Road with thousands of Christmas lights, along with a holiday-decoration lineup that includes flying reindeer, candy canes, talking Santas, a toy train, choir singers, penguins, and a Nativity, set outside their home on County Road. The Gatchells ask nothing for the time and expense they put into the traffic-stopping display, only that passers-by make a donation for the Island Food Pantry.
Speaking to The Times on Tuesday, Mr. Gatchell said this year Islanders have been more like Scrooge than Santa—donations only a third of what they were this time last year. However, with a week until the big day, Mr. Gatchell is still hoping for a Christmas miracle.
The Gatchell house light display will be on from 5 to 8 pm until Friday, when hours will be extended to 5 to 9 pm through Christmas day.
Donations scant at iconic Island Christmas display
