A Showcase of Lights

It isn't difficult to spot the Costello home in Danville at this time of year.

For the past 20 years, Patrick Costello has put up a dazzling display of holiday lights that brings a steady stream of visitors to Dana Highlands Court.

Thousands of strands of different colored lights adorn the large two-story home. It seems as if they cover every inch of the house.

In addition, there are at least three inflatable Santa figures, one in a hot air balloon, another on a motorcycle and another in a sleigh on the roof.

A lighted helicopter is strung across the driveway and the word "Noel" is written on the facade of the second story.

Costello's wife, Sarah, answered the door on Tuesday evening. She said the display is put up entirely by her husband. He begins the day after Thanksgiving and puts up a piece of the extravanganza every day until Christmas.

She said their PG&E bill for the month will top $5,000, but to them it's worth it.

"He loves Christmas," Sarah Costello said. "He loves to watch the children come up and look."

She said one year Costello cut back on the display and they got notes from people wondering what happened to the annual tradition.

No worries this year.

Tami Afdahl of Alamo was enjoying the lights Tuesday evening with her 10-year-old and 8-year-old sons. She learned about the home in an e-mail and came on out.

"It's fabulous, completely fabulous," she said.

For a map of other holiday lights and rules on Patch's holiday lights contest in which a local school district will receive $100,000, just click here.