
The Forward House (pictured) has one of the biggest light displays in San Diego. Think Griswald’s house (“Christmas Vacation” with Chevy Chase.) The building got its moniker when John Forward Sr., mayor of San Diego, had this house built for him in 1904. John Olbrich bought it in 1998 for his business — American Security Mortgage. He had this dilapidated mansion restored and decided to decorate that season. Every season since, it comes alive with an extensive lighting display. Santa’s sleigh and nine reindeer (including Rudolph) are on the roof of this mansion. Santa will be making his annual visit and will be in his sleigh on Friday, Dec. 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. greeting children of all ages with candy canes and his hardy “Ho-ho-ho! Drive by any time between 5 and 10 p.m. through New Year’s Eve to view this holiday display located at the corner of First and Ivy – five blocks west of Balboa Park.