Christmas Story Mural Display – Salem, Utah

r By Scott BarlowrA Salem neighborhood is trying to keep their reason for the season visible with a unique holiday display. The neighborhood came together to coordinate a display that uses images and scriptures to tell the story of Jesus and Christmas. The display, which is lit from 5:30 to 11:30 p.m., seven days a week until New Year’s Day and is open to the public to walk or drive through. It’s a great experience and will appeal to all ages. Many of the visitors are families, school or youth groups or couples looking for a fun, inexpensive date activity.rThe display, which wraps around the horseshoe-shaped streets of 40 East Maple View Drive, 800 South and 70 West Maple View Drive, combines images with scriptures and quotes to tell the Christmas story. All 26 homes have a display, some of which are pictures from Greg Olson, who gave special permission to use his artwork given the high quality of the displays. The displays are anywhere from 4’ to 8’ making it easy to see from the warmth of your own car.r

rThe neighborhood gathered together last year to chip in for the cost of printing and work together to put up and maintain the displays. It’s about the spirit of Christmas and it’s not just Christmas but the whole life of Christ, a chance to remember the real meaning of the season.r

rOne neighbor, Mitzi Rawson said, “I hope they can look at it and understand the true meaning of Christmas and the spirit that is there, that it’s about giving. This is our neighborhood’s way of being able to give to the community and share our beliefs. I hope it touches someone that may be struggling or trying to figure out life.”rThe display is just a few blocks away from Salem Pond, where the city puts Christmas Trees on the pond to see the reflection on the water. A lot of people drive around Salem Pond, which is the fun and festive part, and then come see the murals to offer another element of the Christmas Season.r