Christmas Grotto

So, it’s that time of the year. My Christmas Grotto is up. I like to build this every year and do something different in my street. From the usual lights and trees and the odd inflatable in someone’s front yard. This is my Grotto and kinda like a nativity setting too as described by some.

I’ve struggle in recent years with the wind. Up and down and fighting the wind has been almost impossible as the wind wants to lift the whole thing like a kite. This year, after research I decided to buy a better Gazebo, that was a metal frame and more stronger than the usual gazebo’s that I use. This one also has a vent in the roof as well as around the top on all sides allowing ventilation which helps the wind to come in and go straight out. Every year I could put money on it that as soon as I build it the wind would come. Almost like a challenge as if to say don’t bother because I’ll blow it down.

Well, this year I win. Up once and stayed up. Even when we had the very strong gales it didn’t move. Not only was the frame better, I also used some fence posts with ground spikes that I put inside and built the frame around  it. Solid as a rock. Wasn’t going anywhere. Once the wind came in and out again it loses most of it’s strength and pressure. Having the vents paid a massive part of staying up this year. I could sleep better at night not having to check on it in case the wind was taking it apart.

I have a school near me and I have had the parents knock and ask if I mind them taking  a photo with their kids next to it. Of course I don’t mind. Kids love it and especially as night when all lit up it looks really good. A lot of my lights and decorations, the props are all from the U.S.A as I often bring Christmas stuff home with me as it’s nice to have stuff that people look at and think where did you get that? Not seen that before and I know they can’t walk into a local shop and get the same.

I like having something different, it’s what makes it better and unique. I’ve done this for the last 3 years now and already got plans for next ear as going to attempt something different again so make sure you check back in 12 months time and take a look.