Farmingdale's enormous inflatable Santa Claus sparks joy and controversy

In Farmingdale, Long Island, a unique holiday decoration has captured the attention of local residents. Homeowner Christina Stergiopoulos has placed a massive 42-foot inflatable Santa Claus in her front yard, generating a remarkable reaction in the neighborhood. This extraordinary decoration, which only operates for a few hours each day depending on wind conditions, has been the talk of the block, even drawing a pause from the UPS delivery driver. Stergiopoulos humorously attributes the idea to her husband, jokingly stating, 'Just blame the husband. He's crazy.' Her niece, Madison Ryan, noted the Santa's overwhelming size, mentioning she 'wasn't expecting this to be super big.' As people walk by on Florgate Road, they cannot help but be drawn in by the holiday spectacle. Some residents have even called it the 'McMansion of all holiday decor.' This year, the Stergiopoulos family, along with their neighbors, have taken their festive enthusiasm to new heights, displaying a level of decor that has made them synonymous with extravagant holiday celebrations, reminiscent of the iconic Griswold family known for their outrageous Christmas lights and decorations. Despite its vastness, many neighbors reported no worries about the inflatable unexpectedly taking off. One neighbor humorously commented, 'As long as no kids are attached to it, it's fine!' The festive atmosphere fostered by the decoration signifies a joyous community spirit. Local residents have noted that seeing the giant Santa has replaced the need to attend events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, stating, 'There's no reason to go there now. We're just gonna look up on our lawn and there it is!' This enchanting display serves as both a holiday attraction and a bonding tool for the community, illustrating how significant festive displays can bring people together during the holiday season.