Where was Christmas Vacation filmed at? This question often arises among fans of the iconic 1983 American comedy film, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and John Candy, the movie has left a lasting impression on audiences with its hilarious take on the holiday season. In this article, we will explore the various locations where the film was shot, providing insight into the making of this beloved Christmas classic.
The filming of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” took place primarily in the Greater Los Angeles area, with specific locations scattered throughout California. One of the most notable settings is the fictional home of Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase. The exterior of the Griswold residence was filmed at the Santa Clarita Ranch, a residential development in Santa Clarita, California. The interior shots of the house were actually shot on a soundstage in Culver City, Los Angeles.
Another significant location in the film is the fictional Wally World, where Clark Griswold embarks on his quest to impress his family with the perfect Christmas lights. The actual Wally World store used in the movie was the now-defunct Northridge location in the San Fernando Valley. The scenes inside the store were also shot on a soundstage, with the exterior shots being filmed at the actual store.
The Griswold family’s vacation destination, the Great Wolf Lodge, was another fictional location that added to the film’s charm. While the lodge itself was not filmed on location, the exterior shots of the lodge were taken at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas. The interior shots were filmed on a soundstage, ensuring the movie’s consistency and continuity.
Several other notable locations in the film include the Griswold’s church, which was filmed at the St. Joseph Church in Santa Clarita, and the Griswold’s workplace, which was shot at the now-defunct Van Nuys Airport. The film’s depiction of the Griswold family’s Christmas festivities in the neighborhood was also shot in Santa Clarita, showcasing the picturesque suburban setting that perfectly complements the film’s comedic tone.
In conclusion, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” was filmed at a variety of locations throughout the Greater Los Angeles area, with some scenes shot on soundstages to maintain consistency. The combination of these real and fictional settings contributed to the film’s success and has made it a cherished holiday classic for generations. So, the next time you watch this beloved comedy, you’ll know where the magic of Christmas Vacation was captured on film.
