Christmas at the Bonfadini house is a time honored tradition for most people who have grown up in Manassas. Even if you missed growing up here, like I did, you immediately start taking your children past the house on Forrester Road the second weekend in December.

I hear rumors that this will be John Bonfadini’s last year. I don’t believe it for one minute. He took a little break about 8 years or so ago. It didn’t last. His grandchildren talked him back into it, from what I have been told. Now I expect his real children weren’t quite so enthusiastic since I feel certain they were commandeered into helping. What a task!

All of the Bonfadini displays are hand made. Snoopy, Baby Jesus, and the Little Mermaid all share the front yard. The theme? Icons and characters children love. John Bonfadini was an industrial arts teacher for many years in Prince William County before moving on the George Mason University. His talent is extremely evident and has been delighting children and adults for a good 30 years. It is a must-see if you are in Manassas over the holidays.

6 Thoughts to “Bonfadini Christmas Display-A Manassas Tradition”

  1. DiversityGal

    I have been going to see this display almost every year since I was a very little kid…and I’m 34 now. It wouldn’t be the holidays without it:)

  2. Chris

    This is one youtube clip that I’m glad to see. I feel like a little kid again. I was looking the other night to figure out what was new, and couldn’t. As I looked at the many other items over the decades of growing on the Bonfadini’s Christmas display. I could remember almost the years of all of the items.

    Thanks for the clip MH!!

    Merry Christmas!!!!

  3. NotGregLetiecq

    Merry Christmas, M-H, Elena, Alanna, Chris, D-Girl, Michael, Mackie, Censored, LuckyD, Rick, Pinko, Robb, Twin, IVAN, WHWN, PWCResident, PWCConservative, Cindy, Shelly, TurnPWC, AWC, Citizen Tom, SecondA, and all the other regular and sometimes contributors to “Auntie BVBL.”

    It’s been a great year of free and uncensored diaolog and information. I know I’ve learned a lot and am a better citizen for it.

    Merry Chistmas and happy holidays.

  4. Moon-howler

    Thanks NGL. Merry Christmas to you also. and a happy and prosperous new year.

  5. JustCause

    OMG!!! I had no idea he was back!! I had started a tradition in taking my children when they were little. The last time I took them was about 8 maybe 9 or so years ago because he had announced that night I was there that it was his last year because someone had stolen the donations people left when his Grandchild was sick and in the hospital..I just assumed he was done …ever since then we started going to Miracle of lights which was never the same and every year we would “remember when” about the Bonafadini house..My Kids are now 21, 19 and 16 and every year they tell me they wish WE were at the Bonfadini house…. NOW have a Grandson who is 2 and next year I WILL BE THERE with Hot chocolate in hand, standing at the curb and telling my Grandson allll about Mr Bonfadini and his Magical Christmas house…Waittt till I tell me kids that he is back and has been back!!!!

  6. Moon-howler

    Take them to see it. It was still up Sat night. He usually takes it down after NY Day.

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