What Is the Windmill in Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’ve ever watched the classic holiday film “Christmas Vacation,” you’ll undoubtedly remember the iconic scene where Clark Griswold finally gets his family’s Christmas lights to work. In the background of that scene, you may have noticed a strange contraption spinning in the wind. That is none other than the windmill.

What is the Windmill in Christmas Vacation?

The windmill in “Christmas Vacation” is a decorative lawn ornament that Clark Griswold installs in his front yard as part of his elaborate Christmas light display. It appears throughout several scenes in the movie and serves as a humorous addition to the chaotic holiday preparations.

Why Did Clark Griswold Install a Windmill?

Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, is known for his over-the-top antics and grandiose plans. In “Christmas Vacation,” he sets out to create the perfect holiday experience for his family. This includes decorating every inch of their house with thousands of Christmas lights.

As part of this plan, Clark decides to add a windmill to his front yard display. The reasoning behind this decision is never explicitly stated, but it can be assumed that he thought it would add an extra element of cheer to his already extravagant decorations.

The Significance of the Windmill

While the windmill may seem like nothing more than a quirky addition to Clark’s Christmas light display, it actually holds some significance. In many cultures, windmills are seen as symbols of good luck and prosperity. They are believed to bring positive energy and fortune to those who have them on their property.

In this way, Clark’s decision to install a windmill could be seen as an attempt to bring good luck and cheer to his family during the holiday season. However, given how much chaos ensues throughout the movie, it’s unclear whether or not this plan was successful.

The Legacy of the Windmill in Christmas Vacation

Despite its relatively small role in the movie, the windmill in “Christmas Vacation” has become a beloved symbol of the holiday season. It’s often referenced in pop culture and has even inspired real-life replicas.

In fact, some fans of the movie have gone so far as to create their own versions of the windmill for their holiday displays. Whether it’s spinning in the wind or simply standing still, it’s clear that the windmill has become an iconic part of “Christmas Vacation” lore.

Conclusion

While it may seem like a minor detail, the windmill in “Christmas Vacation” adds an extra layer of humor and charm to an already beloved holiday classic. Whether you’re watching for the first time or revisiting it for the hundredth, keep an eye out for this iconic decoration spinning away in the background.