What Color Is the Station Wagon in Christmas Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie, Christmas Vacation, you may have wondered about the color of the station wagon that plays a prominent role in the film. The Griswold family’s car is a symbol of their misadventures during the holiday season, and it’s easy to see why viewers are curious about its color.

The Color Controversy

Despite its importance in the film, there is some debate among fans about the exact color of the Griswold family station wagon. Some insist that it is a bright red hue, while others argue that it is more of a dark maroon or burgundy color.

The Evidence

So what clues can we gather from watching Christmas Vacation to determine the true color of the station wagon? Here are some key points to consider:

  • In several scenes throughout the movie, the car appears to be a deep shade of red. This is particularly noticeable during daylight scenes.
  • However, in other scenes where lighting may be dimmer or more atmospheric (such as when Clark Griswold is trapped under a truck), the car takes on a darker hue that could be interpreted as burgundy or maroon.
  • The car’s official description on various production websites and merchandise is “metallic pea”. However, this term has been disputed by fans who argue that it doesn’t accurately describe any shade seen in the film.

What Does This Mean?

Ultimately, there may not be a clear answer to what color the Griswold family station wagon really is. Depending on lighting conditions and personal interpretation, viewers may see it as either red or burgundy.

However, this debate highlights just how important small details can be in creating memorable films. Even something as seemingly trivial as a car’s color can spark passionate discussion among fans and add to the overall enjoyment of a movie.

Conclusion

So, whether you see it as red or burgundy, the Griswold family station wagon is an iconic part of Christmas Vacation. It represents the chaos and mayhem that often accompany holiday celebrations, and its color is just one small but memorable detail that adds to the film’s enduring appeal.