Every year, millions of Melburnians decorate their homes in anticipation of Christmas. Yet nowhere does the art of illuminated Christmas decoration become more passionate than in the suburbs, where households compete to win the annual Christmas Lights competition, hosted by K-Mart.

This year’s winners were Gesu and Clara Mastropietro of 13 Narracan Street in Vermont South.

Last night, I visited the garden. I was not only taken aback by the exuberant display, but by the sheer number of people who’d also made the pilgrimage.

Hundreds of eager families had made their way to 13 Narracan Street when I arrived at 8:45pm. Simply finding a place to position my tripod and take some photos was a challenge, as more and more people came to witness the display.

Mastropietro had mounted thousands of Christmas lights from one end of the house to the other. The trees and shrubs were filled with fairy lights, and the entire front garden was covered with illuminated Christmas-themed decorations. The house was marked by a giant star on a prominent front corner and even the garage was opened to the public, filled with endless Christmas decorations. It really was a magical sight, particularly for the children.

Not long after I arrived, an entrepreneurial ice-cream vendor turned up with his ice-cream truck. I have read reports of tourist buses arriving too, although I didn’t see any when I visited. That said, the simple task of crossing this normally quiet residential street was made quite hazardous on account of the unyielding flows of traffic! Regardless, a great time was had by all. (Except, perhaps, for the boy left behind by his parents).

Through their elaborate Christmas decorations, the Mastropietro’s have brought joy to thousands of Melbourne’s families who’ve enjoyed their lavish electrical display.

However, the joy of the Christmas lights doesn’t end with those who’ve visited. Money that Gesu and Clara Mastropietro raise from the display is generously donated to the Starlight Children’s Foundation and people are encouraged to make a donation after visiting (a wishing well is provided).

Take a look for yourself:

If you would like to share in some Christmas joy, a drive to 13 Narracan Street in Vermont South (Melway 62 G8) is well worth the effort. From Burwood Highway, turn into Hartland Road at the Vermont South Shopping Centre and then turn right at Weeden Drive. (Neighbours ‘trainspotters’ will realise how close this street is to Pinoak Court, otherwise known as Ramsay Street).

If you can’t make the journey, Gesu Mastropietro has uploaded two videos of the display on YouTube: Christmas Display 2008 and Christmas Display 2007.