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VIDEO: More than 17,000 lights bring holiday cheer to one Warren County neighborhood

Original Story on Dec. 9: INDEPENDENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (Warren County) – As the holiday season gets into full swing, one home on Mount Rascal Road in Independence Township is dazzling the neighborhood with its stunning display.

Mike Palko started decorating his house in mid-September this year—well ahead of the usual holiday rush—so he could avoid the chilly weather and ensure his neighborhood could enjoy his festive display for months. His decorations typically stay up through January, brightening the road throughout the winter months.

Mike’s love for holiday lights began as a child, helping his father hang decorations. However, it wasn’t until he met his wife Monica in 2017 that the Palkos truly took their decorating tradition to the next level. With Monica’s shared enthusiasm for Christmas lights, the couple began expanding their display each year. In their first year of going all out, they chose a candy cane theme, and this year, they’ve opted for a classic red and green light display.

Mike’s goal has always been simple: to bring some extra joy to his family, friends, and neighbors during the holiday season. And he’s certainly succeeded. Neighbors along Mount Rascal Road frequently stop by to thank him for the bright display that has become a beloved tradition.

This year, his decorations include an impressive 17,427 lights, a singing Mr. Chill snowman, motion-activated figures, and plenty of Santa Claus, snowmen, reindeer, and Christmas trees. A new addition to the display this year is a Christmas countdown, ramping up the excitement for the big day.

But the magic doesn’t stop outside. Inside the Palko home, the festive cheer continues with one real tree and three artificial trees, making the interior look “like the inside of a department store at Christmas time,” as Mike’s father lovingly describes it.

One of the most cherished moments of the season is the special night when the Palkos invite family, friends, and their kids over to witness a surprise guest—Santa Claus himself—turn on the lights, officially kicking off the holiday season for everyone.

For Mike, it’s not just about the lights—it’s about the smiles they bring. “It’s all about spreading joy,” he says. “Seeing that reflected in the faces of others is the best part of the season.” And on Mount Rascal Road, his lights are doing just that.

Jay Edwards

Born and raised in Northwest NJ, Jay has a degree in Communications and has had a life-long interest in local radio and various styles of music. Jay has held numerous jobs over the years such as stunt car driver, bartender, voice-over artist, traffic reporter (award winning), NY Yankee maintenance crewmember and peanut farm worker. His hobbies include mountain climbing, snowmobiling, cooking, performing stand-up comedy and he is an avid squirrel watcher. Jay has been a guest on America’s Morning Headquarters,program on The Weather Channel, and was interviewed by Sam Champion.

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