Where was Christmas Vacation Shot?
Christmas Vacation, a beloved American comedy film released in 1989, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its humorous take on the festive season. One of the most intriguing aspects of this movie is the question of where it was actually shot. This article delves into the fascinating details behind the filming locations of this iconic film.
1. The Main Location: Universal Studios Hollywood
The majority of Christmas Vacation was filmed on the Universal Studios Hollywood lot in California. This iconic movie studio provided the perfect backdrop for the Griswold family’s misadventures during the holiday season. The Universal lot boasts a variety of sets and attractions that resemble real-life locations, making it an ideal spot for the film’s production.
2. The Griswold House: A Temporary Set
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the Griswold family’s home. To create the perfect Griswold residence, the production team built a temporary set on the Universal Studios lot. This set featured the iconic Christmas lights, the red and green lawn ornaments, and the festive decorations that are synonymous with the Griswold family. The house was designed to resemble a typical American home, complete with a fireplace and a cozy living room.
3. The National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Set
In addition to the Griswold house, the production team also constructed a set that mimicked the look of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, the book on which the film is based. This set included various props and decorations that added to the film’s authenticity and helped to bring the story to life.
4. Other Filming Locations
While the majority of the film was shot on the Universal Studios lot, some exterior scenes were filmed in other locations. The Griswold family’s drive through the snowy landscape was shot in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, providing the picturesque backdrop that made the scene so memorable. Additionally, the family’s trip to the Grand Canyon was filmed at the actual Grand Canyon in Arizona.
In conclusion, Christmas Vacation was primarily shot at the Universal Studios Hollywood lot, with some exterior scenes filmed in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Grand Canyon. The film’s production team did an exceptional job of creating a festive atmosphere that has left a lasting impression on audiences. Where was Christmas Vacation shot? The answer lies in the perfect blend of on-set creativity and breathtaking natural landscapes that brought the Griswold family’s Christmas adventures to life.
