Minnesota Woman Transforms Home into Candyland for Christmas

BAXTER, Minnesota — Kathy Fitzpatrick has turned her home into a dazzling Candyland for this year’s Christmas festivities, showcasing an extraordinary display of lights and decorations. Each year, Fitzpatrick dedicates nearly a year to curating a new theme for her holiday décor, a tradition she began several years ago to bring joy to her family during the festive season.

The Fitzpatrick family gathers to celebrate Christmas over Thanksgiving weekend. During this special time, the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren propose three theme ideas for the upcoming year. Fitzpatrick then selects a winning theme, and on January 2, she embarks on her shopping spree, taking advantage of post-holiday sales. Her quest for decorations leads her to browse platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, where she collects a variety of crafting supplies to create her enchanting holiday wonderland.

This year’s theme, aptly named “Candyland Christmas,” features an array of delightful decorations, including lollipops, gingerbread houses, and giant gummy bears. “I’m certified nuts,” Fitzpatrick said with a laugh. “Anybody who knows me will agree.” Despite her self-deprecating humor, the enthusiasm she brings to her decorating efforts is palpable, as she aims to create a magical atmosphere for her family. About 25 relatives were expected for this year’s Thanksgiving gathering, ready to partake in a sweet adventure.

“Nothing has to be perfect. It just has to be fun and magical for the kids,” Fitzpatrick emphasized, capturing the spirit of her celebrations. To further enhance the experience, she has set up three different Candyland-themed games for the children, including the traditional board game and a custom-made tabletop version with oversized markers.

In an imaginative twist, Fitzpatrick has even transformed her home into a giant Candyland board game. Colorful foam squares create a winding pathway that extends through various rooms, culminating in the kitchen. Accompanying this interactive game are large laminated cards, and the children will act as their own game pieces, moving through the house.

Each family member will receive themed T-shirts to match the festive decor, ensuring that everyone is part of the joyful experience. Beyond the family celebration, Fitzpatrick is contemplating opening her home to the wider community. She is considering charging a small fee for visitors to play the game, take photographs with her extensive decorations, and perhaps even decorate gingerbread men.

Additionally, Fitzpatrick plans to offer her decorations for rental after the holiday season, as many of the items, apart from the trees, are not overtly Christmas-themed. Last year’s Grinch decorations are already available for rent on Facebook Marketplace, and Fitzpatrick even offers setup assistance for an extra fee.

For Fitzpatrick, the effort she puts into this holiday tradition is deeply personal. “It’s just my holiday,” she said. “I’ve done it ever since my kids were little. I just love Christmas, I love celebrating Christ’s birthday.” Her husband, Rick, humorously noted that her creative drive keeps her busy, often inspiring her late at night when ideas strike.

From the light fixtures to the bathrooms, Fitzpatrick’s home is a vibrant display of holiday spirit, signaling the start of the season and creating cherished memories for her family.