We finally know the holiday season is here, now that the house on Acushnet Road is lit up.
Marino Carreiro and his wife Grace greeted guests and onlookers at the grand opening of the annual exhibit at 59 Acushnet Road in Mattapoisett on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The Carreiro house becomes a popular destination in town in the early days of winter, with Marino spending a good portion of the year assembling his masterpiece.
With music playing and many, many thousands of lights twinkling, you can walk up the drive, or take the light-tunnel path past the animatronics coming to life, ascending up to the hot chocolate and cookies by the home itself. The garage doors are also illuminated, showing pixel-art of Santa and a snowman. I’m not sure what holiday magic is used for that, but it’s pretty spectacular. Also, somehow the garage doors can still open to allow a car in. I was flabbergasted.
Many come from around the Tri-Town in a pilgrimage; many park and get some hot cocoa; many are just driving by, mouths agape as they turn the corner.
This year is the 10th anniversary of Marino putting up the lights, with their announcement saying, “Ladies and gentlemen… it’s the 10th anniversary of The First Night of the Lights! This will be our final big celebration, and we’re going out with a sparkle!”
Marino described this year’s lights as a “grand finale.” He stressed the festivities, lights, and treats will continue for years to come, but the endeavor will be scaled back. He told us he won’t be adding anything new to the ensemble next year, as has been a tradition. Considering he told us he starts putting lights up in September to be ready for the day after Thanksgiving, it is only fair!
The holiday season has officially begun, now that the red star atop the Carreiro’s tree is illuminated and glowing over Mattapoisett.
By Sam Bishop