Capturing the Colorado Charm- ‘Was Christmas Vacation’ Filmed in the Land of Aspen and Snowy Peaks

Was Christmas Vacation Filmed in Colorado?

Christmas Vacation, a classic American comedy film released in 1989, has left moviegoers chuckling for decades. Directed by John R. Johnson and starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and John Candy, the film revolves around the Griswold family’s comical attempt to take a cross-country road trip to their vacation destination. However, many fans have been curious about the actual filming locations. So, was Christmas Vacation filmed in Colorado?

Surprisingly, no. Christmas Vacation was primarily filmed in the state of Georgia, specifically in and around Atlanta. The decision to film in Georgia was primarily due to its warm climate, which allowed for the film’s winter setting without the need for elaborate snow scenes. The Griswold family’s home, the “Griswold residence,” was actually a combination of several homes in the Atlanta area, including the iconic Griswold family Christmas tree, which was located in the backyard of a house in the city of Norcross.

Despite the lack of Colorado scenery, the film’s setting is still a beloved part of its charm. The Griswold family’s cross-country road trip takes them through various states, including Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, with a brief stop in the fictional “Wally World” theme park. These locations were carefully chosen to provide a sense of travel and adventure, even if the actual filming took place in Georgia.

One of the film’s most memorable scenes involves the Griswold family attempting to find a Christmas tree in a snowy forest. While the snowy scenery was not actually filmed in Colorado, the production team used innovative techniques to create the illusion of snow. They utilized a combination of artificial snow, green screens, and clever editing to make the scene look as if it took place in a winter wonderland.

In conclusion, while Christmas Vacation was not filmed in Colorado, the film’s warm-hearted humor and memorable characters have made it a beloved holiday classic. The decision to film in Georgia allowed for the production to take advantage of the state’s favorable climate and resources, ultimately resulting in a timeless piece of American cinema.