Where Is the House From National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you may be curious about the location of the iconic Griswold family home. The family home in the movie has become a beloved symbol of the holiday season, with many people visiting the location to take pictures and relive their favorite scenes from the film.

The “Christmas Vacation” house is located in Los Angeles, California, specifically in a neighborhood called Chatsworth. The street address is 2316 North Vermont Avenue.

If you’re planning a trip to see the house, it’s important to note that it’s a private residence and not open to visitors. However, you can still get a great view of the home from the street.

History of the House

The “Christmas Vacation” house was built in 1982, just a few years before filming began for the movie. The exterior shots were used throughout all three films in the “Vacation” franchise – “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “European Vacation,” and “Christmas Vacation.”

The house itself is fairly nondescript – it’s a two-story colonial-style home with white siding and green shutters. However, what makes it so recognizable is its prominence in the movie.

The Importance of Setting

In “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) is determined to give his family an unforgettable Christmas experience. He decorates his home with thousands of lights and attempts to create the perfect holiday atmosphere, but things quickly spiral out of control.

The setting of the Griswold family home is crucial to understanding Clark’s character and motivations. The house represents his desire for perfection and his determination to create happy memories for his family.

  • Exterior Shots: Throughout “Christmas Vacation,” there are numerous exterior shots of the Griswold home. These shots showcase the over-the-top Christmas decorations, including the famous scene where Clark finally succeeds in lighting up the house.
  • Interior Shots: While most of the interior shots for “Christmas Vacation” were filmed on a set, a few scenes were shot inside the real-life Griswold home. This includes the iconic scene where Clark gets trapped in the attic while looking for decorations.

The Legacy of “Christmas Vacation”

Since its release in 1989, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” has become a beloved holiday classic. The film’s enduring popularity has ensured that the Griswold family home remains an important part of American pop culture.

Every year, thousands of fans make a pilgrimage to Chatsworth to see the house in person. Some even recreate their own versions of Clark’s elaborate Christmas light display.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a fan of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” visiting the Griswold family home is a must-do activity. While you won’t be able to go inside, you can still appreciate the iconic setting from the street. And if you’re feeling inspired by Clark’s holiday spirit, why not try your hand at creating your own over-the-top Christmas display?