NEW since 2014: - LED Wreaths replaced with Pixel Wreaths - LED Snow flakes replaced with Pixel Snowflakes - First 3 minutes of 2014 show removed and replaced with new music and sequencing - New effects, more effects, higher-energy/faster paced from beginning to end of show - 100% Pixels!
More about the show:
As seen on Season 2 of ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"!
The Johnson Light Show is a Dubstep themed Christmas light show in San Antonio, TX.
Started in 2013, our show is not your traditional light show! There are no inflatables, characters, blow molds, or other "traditional" elements. Even the music is not traditional Christmas music; it is a custom sound track composed of Dubstep, EDM, hip hop, movie clips and even our children! The result is an exciting show that feels like a dance party! Even the lights are not traditional, we use Pixels which are similar to what you would see in a stadium Jumbotron. Each pixel can be controlled individually and set to any color and intensity. This means many more effects than what can be done with Christmas lights! The show embodies the spirit of DIY and cutting edge technology with all custom built elements, kit based controllers, and both custom and open source software. We hope you like our show, thanks for visiting!
I Will Teach You How to Build My Light Show: Interested in building some of these elements yourself? Check out my How-To videos on building the Pixel Trees, Arches, and Matrix Grids, Pixel Wreaths, and Pixel Snowflakes that you see in this video: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf
NEW since 2014: - LED Wreaths replaced with Pixel Wreaths - LED Snow flakes replaced with Pixel Snowflakes - First 3 minutes of 2014 show removed and replaced with new music and sequencing - New effects, more effects, higher-energy/faster paced from beginning to end of show - 100% Pixels!
More about the show:
As seen on Season 2 of ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"!
The Johnson Light Show is a Dubstep themed Christmas light show in San Antonio, TX.
Started in 2013, our show is not your traditional light show! There are no inflatables, characters, blow molds, or other "traditional" elements. Even the music is not traditional Christmas music; it is a custom sound track composed of Dubstep, EDM, hip hop, movie clips and even our children! The result is an exciting show that feels like a dance party! Even the lights are not traditional, we use Pixels which are similar to what you would see in a stadium Jumbotron. Each pixel can be controlled individually and set to any color and intensity. This means many more effects than what can be done with Christmas lights! The show embodies the spirit of DIY and cutting edge technology with all custom built elements, kit based controllers, and both custom and open source software. We hope you like our show, thanks for visiting!
I Will Teach You How to Build My Light Show: Interested in building some of these elements yourself? Check out my How-To videos on building the Pixel Trees, Arches, and Matrix Grids, Pixel Wreaths, and Pixel Snowflakes that you see in this video: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf
PRESS OR MEDIA INQUIRES? Please contact me at mjohnson@livinglightshows.com. Thanks!
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com Living Light Shows - www.livinglightshows.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"Playing with Visual POI / Pixel POI - Newest Tech for our 2020 Christmas Light ShowLiving Light Shows2020-06-10 | Wanted to give you all a Sneak Peak at my latest RGB Pixel sequencing project! I am always trying stay on the leading edge of RGB LED Pixel Technology for my Light Shows and this one is cool! It is called Visual POI or Pixel POI and they are just light sticks with a single strip of RGB Pixels that when spun create vibrant and stunning patterns and effects. Just thinking about the LED timing and directional awareness that is built into these circuits to make each light blink so fast and so precise to create such crisp images is mind-boggling. I just started learning to "Spin" so focus on the lights and not the skill or speed of the person spinning them :-)
Also, I purposely did not speed up or in any way modify this video with special effects, I left it exactly as it was shot so you could see how amazing it looks, you really see trails like that in real life!
Like all other RGB lighting technology I tinker with these are programmable and can be synchronized with the light show. The two wands also wirelessly talk to each other so they stay in perfect Sync.
The video just shows some sample animations and the logo for my 2020 Light Show (its called Lights Alive! and is in San Antonio, TX if you want to see it) programmed on the sticks.2018 SeaWorld Animated Light Show TreeLiving Light Shows2018-12-24 | This video is our 30-Foot Animated Light show Tree at SeaWorld in 2018 (35ft with custom logo topper). We have multiple custom programmed shows for this tree; this one is our TSO show. Between featured shows spectators are able to control the tree and make their own light shows using our innovative new MyShow Studio App (the first of its kind audience interactivity app for computer controlled light displays for commercial venues). For more information on either of these products click below:
About Living Light Shows Living Light Shows specializes in computer-controlled animated light show products and displays for commercial venues. With an emphasis on holiday specific shows sequenced to music, our projects have a history of going viral and exponentially increasing exposure for our customers venues by pushing the technological limits with a unique artistic style.
Thank You for watching, please subscribe!
PRESS OR MEDIA INQUIRES? Please contact us at info@livinglightshows.com. Thanks!MyShow Studio App by Living Light Shows - Control the Lights!Living Light Shows2018-12-24 | Living Light Shows is leading the industry again with the first of its kind app that adds interactivty to our commercial animated light show product line. While others are still figuring out computer synchronized light show systems and implementation we are already jumping into what we think is the next big thing, audience participation! Spectators at our customers venues can create their own light show using our new MyShow Studio App on their mobile devices that will play on our animated light show tree kits (http://livinglightshows.com/rgb-pixel-megatree-kit) or our animated RGB LED mega sphere/ball (http://livinglightshows.com/mega-sphere-kit/). To use the app viewers simply connect to the wireless network at the venue and follow the on-screen instructions. Viewer shows can include a variety of effects and effect combinations with the ability to modify specific options and parameters for each effect. The effects are then compiled into a completed show and queued to run between featured shows and other user submitted shows.
About Living Light Shows Living Light Shows specializes in computer-controlled animated light show products and displays for commercial venues. With an emphasis on holiday specific shows sequenced to music, our projects have a history of going viral and exponentially increasing exposure for our customers venues by pushing the technological limits with a unique artistic style.
Thank You for watching, and please subscribe!Giant Animated RGB LED Pixel Mega Sphere Ball KitLiving Light Shows2018-08-14 | The RGB LED Mega Sphere by Living Light Shows is our newest product offering for Commercial venues. It is professionally built with the highest quality parts allowing quick assembly and disassembly as a modular kit. The frame is powder-coated and all electronics water-proofed so outdoor installation is possible. This product is perfect for suspending in Atriums, Lobbies, Malls, Foyers, or other central gathering locations where people can congregate to view the dazzling animations and light effects. Animation sequences can be custom programmed with or without music and scheduled to run at specified times via an easy to use web interface.
Whether it is for Christmas, a dynamic lighted art attraction, or your own New Years Ball drop to rival the one in Times Square New York, our giant Megasphere is guaranteed to mesmerize and make a lasting impact with your viewing audience. Custom programmable with hundreds of unique effects, this sphere is a one of a kind attraction unlike anything else on the market. The sphere comes in either a 6-foot or a whopping 11-foot wide diameter. The latest technology electronics, RGB lights, and remote accessible solid-state show player computer are all included in the kit.
Lighted Art Attraction Living Light Shows latest product is designed to transcend our traditional Christmas focus and appeal to a broader spectrum of venues, events, festivals, and art installations. Our unique light sphere is the perfect centerpiece for showcasing the capabilities resulting from the marriage of lights and technology and is designed to be suspended from a lobby, atrium, reception, or other large gathering space.
Interactivity! New for this year is the Living Light Shows MyShow Studio App which allows your viewing audience to program their own light show from a phone or mobile wireless device and see their creation play out on your Mega Tree or Mega Sphere! Audience interactivity is a great marketing and promotional tool allowing your venue to capitalize on the coveted viral nature of social sharing to draw in traffic as proud users share video of their unique creations across social media platforms.
Features:
- Available in 6-Foot and 11-Foot diameters.
- Great for New Year’s Eve ball drop, Art Installations and Lighted Art Displays
- Can be suspended in Atriums, Lobbies, Foyers, and Reception Areas or placed on the ground with optional leg kit.
- 100’s of custom effects including musically synchronized options are available.
- Includes all Computer show players, RGB Controllers, RGB LED lights, Waterproof wiring, and Connectors.
- Easy Setup and Storage.
- Made for indoor or outdoor installation
- Professional Fabrication for Commercial installations.
- Attractive and strong 2” Powder coated tube frame
- Solid State Show player and Controllers for increased reliability and durability
- Electronics and UL Listed Power packs pre-installed and configured in Weather-proof outdoor enclosures.
- Compatible with Living Light Shows "MyShow Studio" interactive App allowing spectators to control the lights!
- Designed and Fabricated in the USA by Living Light Shows, the nationally recognized leader in high-impact holiday light shows and products
For information and to discuss customized programming and sequencing for your organization or business please contact us at http://www.livinglightshows.comRGB Pixel MegaSphere - Commercial 3D Animated Light BallLiving Light Shows2018-05-31 | The RGB Light Sphere by Living Light Shows is our newest product offering for Commercial venues.
It is professionally built with the highest quality parts allowing quick assembly and disassembly as a modular kit. The frame is powder-coated and all electronics water-proofed so outdoor installation is possible. All electronics including the computer show player, controllers, and RGB LED lights are included. This product is perfect for suspending in Atriums, Lobby's, Malls, Foyers, or other central gathering locations where people can congregate to view the dazzling animations and light effects.
Features:
- Professional Fabrication for Commercial installations.
- Available in 6-Foot and 11-Foot diameters.
- Can be suspended or placed on the ground.
- Perfect for Christmas and other holiday decorative displays, events, or lighted kinetic art attraction.
- Made for indoor or outdoor installation
- Custom effects including musically synchronized options are available.
- Compatible with Living Light Shows "MyShow Studio" interactive App
- Includes all Computer show players, RGB Controllers, RGB LED lights, Waterproof wiring, and Connectors.
- Easy Setup and Storage.
- Designed and Fabricated in the USA.OLLU Float Project takes 1st Place in 2018 Fiesta Flambeau Illuminated Night ParadeLiving Light Shows2018-05-01 | Living Light Shows ventured into new territory this year with the fabrication of a scale building model of the iconic and historic Our Lady of the Lake University's main building. The building was outfitted with the latest RGB LED technology and an animated lighting sequence was programmed with custom effects synchronized to other elements on the float. The windows of the model were designed to be offset from the model with dual RGB LED's for each window to create an illuminated and diffused glow that created spectacular visual effects without the lights being directly visible. In addition, the spires were fabricated with integrated RGB strips to create a luminous effect up top while the entire model was flooded with wall-washer lights from below. The building model was then showcased as the centerpiece of the OLLU float in the 2018 Fiesta Flambeau Illuminated Night Parade that takes place during Fiesta week in San Antonio, TX.
This video below shows only a fraction of the total light show which was a unique hit with crowds and judges alike coming out with the top spot in judging winning 1st place of all community floats in the parade.
I apologize that the video quality is not that good and does not do justice for what it looked like in person!Drone Video of Commercial RGB LED Christmas Tree in Orlando Area ParkLiving Light Shows2018-01-19 | This video was sent to us by a spectator of our Living Light Shows 30-Foot RGB Pixel MegaTree located at a public in the Orlando, Florida area. The quality is low and there is no audio but it shows what a major attraction it is for public and commercial venues to replace their tired traditional Christmas lights with Animated and Sequenced RGB Christmas trees! You can get more detail about the tree here: http://livinglightshows.com/rgb-pixel-megatree-kit
If your municipality, organization, or company are interested in an engineered commercial-built Christmas tree for your venue please contact us at (210) 987-9870 or from the contact form at our website at http://www.livinglightshows.comLiving Light Shows Animated Outdoor RGB LED Pixel Christmas Tree for Commercial VenuesLiving Light Shows2017-12-12 | Nothing awes and inspires crowds like a well sequenced, computer controlled, animated RGB LED Pixel Christmas Tree. Built on years of research and development our unique color changing LED mega tree kit is engineered and fabricated for exterior commercial installations with the best quality components and electronics.
This video was taken of our tree located on the popular San Antonio Riverwalk in the heart of San Antonio. This 30-Foot Christmas Tree attracts thousands of visitors and is a central attraction for the downtown area during the holidays.
Our outdoor Christmas Trees are perfect for:
Theme Parks Shopping Malls Zoos & Aquariums Drive Thru Light Displays Dealerships Government / Municipalities City Parks Churches Corporate Headquarters Amusement & Attraction Events
If your company is interested in a Tree like this visit our website at http://livinglightshows.com or call us at (210) 987-9870.Projection Mapping Video for our 2017 Star Wars Christmas Light ShowLiving Light Shows2017-12-09 | I created this in Adobe After Effects to be used on the projection mapping screens of our 2017 Star Wars Light Show. This year is the first year we integrated video projection into our light show and it was a lot of work but it turned out great!
The light show can be viewed here to see this video in action: youtu.be/4thVCspAfK4
Media inquiries or question? email mjohnson@livinglightshows.com2017 Star Wars Christmas Light Show - A Dubstep EDM Cover of Darth Vader’s Imperial MarchLiving Light Shows2017-12-09 | Matt Johnson’s latest Christmas light show continues the tradition and unique style of fast-paced, high-energy, Dubstep and EDM remixed synchronized light displays that have become Matt’s signature style. Starting with our appearance on ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight and our subsequent viral video the “2015 Johnson Family Light Show”, our shows have continued in complexity and popularity world-wide culminating in the creation of Living Light Shows in 2016 offering our products and services to the greater commercial and entertainment market. We have musically synchronized holiday light show displays from Southern California to Orlando, Florida and many places in between. We have also fabricated, consulted, and programmed RGB light systems and elements for other shows across the world from Australia to Abu Dhabi.
This 2017 Star Wars light show is located in downtown San Antonio, Texas at Dignowity Park and runs nightly from 6pm to 10pm until New Years. The show Celebrates the launch of the new movie Star Wars The Last Jedi which will be released December 15th.
New in our show this year:
- Projection Mapping / Video Mapping (Want to see the video we made for the projection screens? Click HERE: youtu.be/lfBmk4bedao)
- Circular Matrix Product (Notice the Imperial Logo used on these Matrixes)
- Clay Paky Sharpy Moving Head Spot Lights (Don't accept the cheap Chinese clones, they are not nearly as bright, reliable, or fast!)
- Many new custom designed effects you wont see in any other show!
- Props (e.g., full sized 6-foot 8-inch Darth Vader with custom-made Lightsaber that is amazingly realistic perched on top of our 30-foot RGB MegaTree!)
Soundtrack We are excited to have partnered with Celldweller for his amazing cover version of the Imperial March, Darth Vader’s theme song, for this years show. You can visit his iTunes store at fanlink.to/imperialmarch.
Media inquires? Questions? email mjohnson@livinglightshows.comLiving Light Shows Commercial Outdoor Animated RGB LED Pixel Christmas Mega Tree PromoLiving Light Shows2017-05-30 | This video is a demo of our 30+ foot Commercial Outdoor Christmas Tree design. It is animated with RGB LED color changing lights controlled by computer to create an endless variety of effects. At the end of the video you can see photos of the tree in daytime and while it was under construction. For photos of our latest commercial Christmas tree design and more specification and details click here: http://livinglightshows.com/rgb-pixel-megatree-kit
Features:
- Standard 30 foot tall with options to go higher - 100% Computer Controlled RGB LED Pixels - Choose Preset or Customize Animated Effects - Sequence to Music - Supports Scrolling Text - Display Logos, Graphics, Animations - Over 5,000 pixels and 15,000 DMX Channels! - Made in the USA!
Our pixel Outdoor Christmas trees are an attention grabber and perfect for stand alone displays or as part of a larger light show. The tree is computer controlled and can be sequenced to music, or to run sponsorship logos and graphics, or just set to loop through preset effects that are sure to dazzle your audience.
Perfect for theme parks, malls, zoos, amusement and attraction facilities, or in front of commercial and government buildings during the holidays.
For information and to discuss customized programming and sequencing for your organization or business please contact us at http://www.livinglightshows.comLiving Light Shows outfits OLLU Float at Worlds Largest Night ParadeLiving Light Shows2017-05-04 | With 700,000+ viewers in attendance over the 3-mile route the annual Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade in San Antonio Texas is the largest illuminated night parade in the world. This year Living Light Shows outfitted the “Our Lady of the Lake University” float with our latest technology RGB Pixel systems and elements. The float was only one of a handful using RGB Pixel technology and the only one that synchronized them to custom programmed effects.
Unfortunately we were only able to grab a few seconds of substandard cell phone video of the 34-second light show that looped continuously between elements on the float in pre-programmed patterns.
This was also the first public debut of our new RGB LightType Animated Pixel Letters that come in 18” double light row, or 8.5” single light row versions. The letters were a crowd favorite as they ran animated patterns that really set the float apart from the competition. The letters are also available in custom sizes and fonts (or even unique shapes such as your logo) by special request. Custom lighting effects for the letters can also be programmed; in the video the large letter “O” on the side is actually a stylized logotype with two “swish” shapes that we programmed to do unique effects such as spinning and oscillating. The video only shows a short subset of the full sequence of animations for these letters. For more information on the RGB LightType Animated pixel Letters click here: http://livinglightshows.com/product-category/lighttypeLiving Light Shows Pixel Strip Anchors DemonstrationLiving Light Shows2017-04-19 | Finally a solution to attaching and providing tension to your delicate pixel strips without placing stress on the delicate strip circuit board or components! One of the biggest compliments we get on our light shows is how straight and clean the lines are. In addition to the increased visual impact, these patent pending anchors provide the practical benefit of giving you something to screw, staple, or attach a hook to for securing your light strips and prevent them from twisting.
To learn more or purchase click here: http://livinglightshows.com/productsMatt Johnson Live StreamLiving Light Shows2017-04-19 | ...Living Light Shows Arch Base Kit AssemblyLiving Light Shows2017-04-19 | The most popular Light Arch kit for Commercial and Residential Christmas Displays and Light Shows!
Based on an innovative design introduced by Matt Johnson in 2014 for his debut on ABC's The Great Christmas Light Fight and popularized in many other high profile residential and commercial installations since, this Arch Kit is sure to impressive and grab the attention of your audience.
To Learn more or to purchase this or other RGB Pixel elements visit our website at: http://livinglightshows.com/productsLiving Light Shows - Pixel MegaFlake 48 Demonstration w/QuickPix Pro PixelsLiving Light Shows2016-12-10 | This fan favorite snowflake design from Living Light Shows creates a fantastic visual impact due to a wide variety of possible effects and a large densely populated pixel light distribution over its surface.
The Pixel MegaFlake 48” Snowflake is manufactured to commercial standards using premium quality UV outdoor rated Polycarbonate. This material is durable, has great translucent properties, is easy to clean, and along with our QuickPix RGB pixel lights has a clean polished professional look in the daytime (An important requirement to our commercial clients!). The Pixel MegaFlake was design to have a dense population of lights in an organized layout to avoid the all to common “cluster of lights dispersement” seen on competitive elements that causes them to lose their shape definition when viewed at night. The design uses dual-parallel aligned holes at each opposing arm so the flakes can be easily mounted and secured using standard 1/4” U-Bolts onto wire rope spanning between two objects. The kit comes with our proprietary QuickPix Pro Pixels (See Information and Specifications Here: http://livinglightshows.com/product/quickpix-pro-smart-rgb-pixel-light) and is available in either a modular 6-piece configuration with nylon attachment hardware included or as a single seamless piece.
Included:
• 222 x 1-5/16” QuickPix Pro RGB Pixel Lights w/Retaining Nut Ring (Compatible with most WS2811 capable controllers). • 6 x Snowflake Arm Sections (Modular Version Only) • 18 x Nylon Attachment Screws (Modular Version Only) • 18 x Nylon Attachment Nuts (Modular Version Only)
For more information and to purchase click here: http://www.livinglightshows.com/productsLiving Light Shows - Pixel MegaFlake 34 DemonstrationLiving Light Shows2016-12-10 | This fan favorite snowflake design from Living Light Shows creates a fantastic visual impact due to our unique “lay-down” configuration of pixels, a wide variety of possible effects, and a large densely populated pixel light distribution over its surface.
The Pixel MegaFlake 34” Snowflake is a smaller version of the Pixel MegaFlake 48” but uses the widely available “Bullet Node” style pixel that is common in the RGB lighting industry and are popular with hobby enthusiasts. We designed the MegaFlake using our unique lay-down configuration where the pixels are secured on their side rather than pushed through from the back. This configuration coupled with the translucent nature of the polycarbonate has proven to create a much cooler “glowing lines” effect compared to the traditional points of light seen in traditional competitive products (View our demo video to see the difference!). The Pixel MegaFlake is manufactured to the same commercial standards using premium quality UV outdoor rated Polycarbonate. This material is durable, has great translucent properties, is easy to clean, and has a clean polished professional look in the daytime.
The Pixel MegaFlake series was design to have a dense population of lights in an organized layout to avoid the all-to-common “cluster of lights disbursement” seen on competitive elements that causes them to lose their shape definition when viewed at night. The kit comes in a modular 6-piece configuration with nylon attachment hardware included. Check out our demo video or our past light show videos to see just a few examples of the great effect possibilities with this product!
Included:
• 6 x Snowflake Arm Sections • 18 x Nylon Attachment Screws • 18 x Nylon Attachment Nuts
Not Included:
• 192 x “Bullet Node” Style RGB Pixels Lights • Zip Ties to secure nodes
For more information and to purchase click here: http://www.livinglightshows.com/productsLiving Light Shows - Pixel MegaWreath 40 DemonstrationLiving Light Shows2016-12-10 | The Living Light Shows Pixel MegaWreath uses an unconventional, non-realistic wreath design of concentric rings which was designed especially to showcase a variety of custom effects for our high energy and fast paced light shows. Both chase type effects and bursts effects look especially good on this design and are big crowd pleasers.
The Pixel MegaWreath has a 40” diameter and is fabricated from high grade HDPE tubing that has been specially selected for its translucent properties with pixel lighting to create the most dynamic and impressive light show effects. The concentric continuous ring design allows for a variety of effects that are not possible with traditional wreath layouts. This kit includes 4 hollow rings sized for standard pixel strip lights and 4 outdoor-rated polycarbonate stand-offs for ring spacing & mounting. The rings are connected using 3-pin IP68 waterproof connectors and enter and exit the rings using our proprietary 4-piece locking ring clasps.
Each Kit Includes:
• 1 x HDPE Ring A (52” Circumference, ~25 Pixels) • 1 x HDPE Ring B (76” Circumference, ~37 Pixels) • 1 x HDPE Ring C (99.5” Circumference, ~49 Pixels) • 1 x HDPE Ring D (123.5” Circumference, ~61 Pixels) • 4 x Outdoor-Rated UV coated Polycarbonate stand-offs with mounting holes and ring clasps • 4 x 4-piece ring locking clasps • 4 x 3-Pin Weatherproof Plug w/Gasket (Female) (+, -, data) • 4 x 3-Pin Weatherproof Plug w/Threaded Retaining Connector (Male) (+, -, data)
Not Included:
Pixel Strips (Approximately 10m per Wreath, We use 5m DC12v 60leds/m 20pcs WS2811 ic/meter IP68 strips in them for our light shows)
The video barely shows the 8 light cannons (Spot Lights) that are super bright in person. In addition, there are several elements that are never even in the video because everything is just spread so far apart (e.g., the 12 Snowflakes that are one of my favorite elements barely are shown in the video). If you have a chance, come see it in person if you are in the South Texas (San Antonio/Austin) area!
All Elements were designed, fabricated, and configured by Living Light Shows (www.livinglightshows.com). Check out the website if you have a commercial venue and want a kick-butt light show or elements to do one yourself!
- NEW 50 x panel Living Light Shows Modular Matrix (110 ft. long by 6 ft. high). If interested you can special order through Living Light Shows (livinglightshows.com)
- Hazers (like foggers) to enhance beams from spot lights
- All new sequencing, new venue, new music, etc.
- 100% RGB Pixels!
Contact me if you are interested in commercial consulting, design, fabrication, installation, and/or project management for RGB pixel light or DMX displays and light shows. You can contact me here: http://livinglightshows.com/contact-us.
More about the show:
We were a contestant on Season 2 of ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"!
The Johnson Light Show is a Dubstep EDM Hip-hop themed Christmas light show in San Antonio, TX.
Started in 2013, our show is not your traditional light show! There are no inflatables, characters, blow molds, or other "traditional" elements. Even the music is not traditional Christmas music; it is a custom sound track composed of Dubstep, EDM, hip hop, movie clips and even our children! The result is an exciting show that feels like a dance party! Even the lights are not traditional, we use Pixels which are similar to what you would see in a stadium Jumbotron. Each pixel can be controlled individually and set to any color and intensity. This means many more effects than what can be done with Christmas lights! We hope you like our show, thanks for visiting!
Featured on ABC, BuzzFeed, NBC, Yahoo, BBC, EDM Magazine, WIRED, CNN, Good Housekeeping, BBC and tons of other national and international news and media! Thanks for your support.2015 Johnson Light Show Clean Water ChallengeLiving Light Shows2015-11-25 | Join the Johnson family in our 2015 Light Show (youtu.be/90oZ52M4IC0) "Clean Water Challenge" to raise $10,000 to help the people of Central African Republic. The Central African Republic has the the third highest infant mortality rate in Africa due to a lack of clean water. 2000 children around the world die every day due to water-borne illness that could have been prevented with clean water. Join with us to save lives this Christmas.
For this challenge we have partnered with Living Water International, a top-rated non-profit building wells in impoverished villages. You can place a donation on behalf of our light show at http://www.water.cc/johnsonlightshow
Thank you! Please bookmark our campaign page to get regular updates on the progress of giving to our goal.
Thanks, Matt and Melissa Johnson youtu.be/90oZ52M4IC0Part 5: How to build a Pixel Snowflake for an outdoor Christmas light showLiving Light Shows2015-11-20 | If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
Have you been watching ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight or browsing videos on YouTube of Christmas Light shows or displays that are synchronized to music and wondered how you can do that to your house? This video is part of a video series that I created based on emails I have received from others who have watched my lightshow and are interested in the elements, the technology, and how a person can get started with their own DIY Christmas display. I have attempted to show a basic overview of building elements for your own light show on a budget and with readily available materials from Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, or other stores.
This video series includes the following:
Part 1: How to build a Leaping Arch for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 2: How to build a Pixel Tree for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 3: How to build a Pixel Matrix/Pixel Grid for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 4: How to build a Pixel Wreath for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 5: How to build a Pixel Snowflake for an outdoor Christmas light show
If you plan to use these elements with Pixel LED lights then you will need a controller, sequencing software, and a show player. For my Christmas Light Show (www.johnsonlightshow.com) I used the SanDevices e682 pixel controller with a Raspberry Pi 2 running the Falcon Pi Player (FPP) software that is freely available through Falcon Christmas (www.falconchristmas.com) or Github for the show player.
For sequencing the show (i.e., Programming the different effects the lights will do) there are many available options in software, some are commercial and some are open source or free. My preferred software is called Vixen 3. Other popular options include Light-O-Rama (also known as Lightorama, Light o rama, or LOR), Light Show Pro, Madrix, Hinkle’s Lighting Sequencer (HLS), xLights Nutcracker, and more.
For your soundtrack you can either create something custom (I used a free program called Audacity) or you can simply download an MP3 or WAV file of music you like and import it into your sequencing software.
In order to have a great looking show you do not need to spend a lot of money. The largest cost is the RGB pixels that can be purchased direct from China through vendors like Ray Wu on Aliexpress for as low as $0.19 each. In addition, you can scale your show so you can start out small and grow as your budget grows.
The Pixels I use in my show are all 12vdc WS2811 pixels. If you purchase them from Ray Wu please make sure to mention my name (he may even hook you up if you do)
Other great resources for getting started and learning more Christmas Lights, Displays, and Light Shows, are listed below:
In this video the pixel snow flake has 192 pixels. After about 130 pixels there is a noticeable drop in voltage and the pixels at the end of the string look much dimmer and warmer than those at the beginning. To combat this I powered the strand from both sides. I later ended up adding even more power injection midway for a very consistent coloring and brightness throughout the element. This element is new for 2015 so check out my 2015 Lightshow video to see them in action, they improved my show a lot!
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight" Like us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/johnsonlightshow2015 Christmas Light Show New Element Sneak Peek (Pixel Snowflake)Living Light Shows2015-08-15 | For 2015 I am getting rid of current LED snowflakes on my house (see in my 2014 light show video) and replacing them with these Pixel Snowflakes that I have fabricated. Here is a sneak peek of one running a sequence of effects I put together. The "How To" video on building this snowflake is now available here: youtu.be/nUQ-WkglyE0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf
If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
Here is the rest of the How-To series if you are interested in any of the other elements I have done videos for so far (Trees, Matrix, Arch, Wreath)
Also, the controller in this is a SanDevices e682 and the Pixels are from Ray Wu. They are the 12v WS2811 Node Pixels (mention my name when you order them please)
Thanks! Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"Part 4: How to build a Pixel Wreath for an outdoor Christmas light showLiving Light Shows2015-07-13 | If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
Have you been watching ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight or browsing videos on YouTube of Christmas Light shows or displays that are synchronized to music and wondered how you can do that to your house? This video is part of a video series that I created based on emails I have received from others who have watched my lightshow and are interested in the elements, the technology, and how a person can get started with their own DIY Christmas display. I have attempted to show a basic overview of building elements for your own light show on a budget and with readily available materials from Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, or other stores.
This video series includes the following:
Part 1: How to build a Leaping Arch for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 2: How to build a Pixel Tree for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 3: How to build a Pixel Matrix/Pixel Grid for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 4: How to build a Pixel Wreath for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 5: How to build a Pixel Snowflake for an outdoor Christmas light show
If you plan to use these elements with Pixel LED lights then you will need a controller, sequencing software, and a show player. For my Christmas Light Show (www.johnsonlightshow.com) I used the SanDevices e682 pixel controller with a Raspberry Pi running the Falcon Pi Player (FPP) software that is freely available through Falcon Christmas (www.falconchristmas.com) or Github for the show player.
For sequencing the show (i.e., Programming the different effects the lights will do) there are many available options in software, some are commercial and some are open source or free. My preferred software is called Vixen 3. Other popular options include Light-O-Rama (also known as Lightorama, Light o rama, or LOR), Light Show Pro, Madrix, Hinkle’s Lighting Sequencer (HLS), Nutcracker, and more.
For your soundtrack you can either create something custom (I used a free program called Audacity) or you can simply download an MP3 or WAV file of music you like and import it into your sequencing software.
In order to have a great looking show you do not need to spend a lot of money. The largest cost is the RGB pixels that can be purchased direct from China through vendors like Ray Wu on Aliexpress for as low as $0.19 each. In addition, you can scale your show so you can start out small and grow as your budget grows.
The Pixels I use in my show are all 12vdc WS2811 pixels. If you purchase them from Ray Wu please make sure to mention my name (he may even hook you up if you do)
Other great resources for getting started and learning more Christmas Lights, Displays, and Light Shows, are listed below:
For 2015 I am getting rid of current wreaths on my house (see in my 2014 light show video) and replacing them with these Pixel wreaths that I have fabricated. Here is a sneak peek of one running a sequence of effects I put together. Stay tuned for the "How To" video on building this to be posted in the near future!
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"ABCs The Great Christmas Light Fight 2014 Extended Promo (Johnson Family - San Antonio)Living Light Shows2015-04-02 | The extended promotional video from ABC and Freemantle Media highlighting the Johnson Family Light Show from San Antonio, TX. Episode originally aired December 15th, 2014 during prime time across the nation.2014 Johnson Family Dubstep Christmas Light Show - Featured on ABCs The Great Christmas Light FightLiving Light Shows2014-12-16 | My 2015 Light Show is much better! You can view it here: youtu.be/90oZ52M4IC0
As seen on Season 2 of ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"!
The Johnson Light Show is a Dubstep themed Christmas light show in San Antonio, TX.
Started in 2013, our show is not your traditional light show! There are no inflatables, characters, blow molds, or other "traditional" elements. Even the music is not traditional Christmas music; it is a custom sound track composed of Dubstep, EDM, hip hop, movie clips and even our children! The result is an exciting show that feels like a dance party! Even the lights are not traditional, we use Pixels which are similar to what you would see in a stadium Jumbotron. Each pixel can be controlled individually and set to any color and intensity. This means many more effects than what can be done with Christmas lights! The show embodies the spirit of DIY and cutting edge technology with all custom built elements, kit based controllers, and both custom and open source software. We hope you like our show, thanks for visiting!
Interested in building some of these elements yourself? Check out my How-To videos on building the Pixel Trees, Arches, and Matrix Grids, Pixel Wreaths, and Pixel Snowflakes that you see in this and the newer 2015 video: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"ABC The Great Christmas Light Fight 2014 Promo (Johnson Family)Living Light Shows2014-12-13 | Promotional video from ABC and Freemantle Media highlighting the Johnson Family Light Show from San Antonio, TX. Episode to air December 15th, 2014 at 8/7c.
The soundtrack used on the show is not the actual sound track for the light show (due to copyright restrictions). Click here to see a preview of the 2014 show (full video to be posted after our episode airs): http://youtu.be/KyxRyp8W2r0?list=UUnoQp--VbYcZfHu5gBIcenw
For question, comments, or more information on our show, check out our website at http://www.johnsonlightshow.com.
Thanks, Matt Johnson2014 Johnson Christmas Light Show PreviewLiving Light Shows2014-12-06 | Our agreement with ABC restricts us from posting our full 2014 Christmas video on the internet until after our episode airs on "The Great Christmas Light Fight" on December 15th, 2014. So to promote the show I have created this preview video of what is new and what to expect in our 2014 show. Please watch and support us and then come back to my channel and view the full length video on YouTube. Thanks!
Matt JohnsonBehind the scenes tour of the Johnson Christmas light showLiving Light Shows2014-12-03 | I created this video in response to numerous questions I have received regarding our Christmas Light Show, which you can see at http://www.johnsonlightshow.com. I start off with a basic yard tour of some of the elements, and then get into the details about how it is all put together. Towards the end, I go through all the technical details including the hardware, controllers, software, and networking. I have created the following index of video timestamps for specific topics within the video if you want to skip directly to what you are interested in rather than watch the whole video. I hope you enjoy it.
If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
00:00 - Introduction to Behind the Scenes Tour 01:16 - Explanation on rails system used on hedges, brick, and roofline fascia board. 01:52 - Leaping light arches (If you are interested in how to build them, watch my how to video here: http://youtu.be/4pjHDMx92TI?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf) 02:21 - Pixel Trees: (If you are interested in how to build them, watch my how to video here: http://youtu.be/Pv11upuiqxI?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf) 02:53 - Pixel Matrix, Shutters, Brows, and Outlines (If you are interested in how to build a pixel matrix, watch my how to video here: http://youtu.be/cL9Dy0RlEEw?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf) 03:42 - Roofline rail system 04:28 - Outlines and vertical rails mounted on Brick 04:50 - FM Transmitter, Audio Mixer, Non-LED Light Controller (EDM Design w/RDS) 06:10 - Overview of Smart RGB Pixel lights and the different types used in my show (all are 12v WS2811 based pixels) 07:13 - Overview of Controllers (San Devices e682 pixel controllers) 09:02 - Tour of controller installation, Power supplies, and connections to pixels 09:56 - Overview of Show Player (Raspberry Pi running Falcon Pi Player FPP) 10:40 - Summary of Electronics, Software (Vixen 3), Storage, etc. and how it all interconnects 11:57 - Conclusion
I hope this answers many of the questions that you have and demystifies the whole process of setting up a Christmas light show. I have included part numbers and vendors where I purchased the items throughout the video in overlays.
If you are interested in building any of the elements you see in my lights show including the Pixel Arches, Pixel Trees, Matrix, Pixel Wreath, or Snowflakes, take a look at my How-To series here: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf
I would have loved to see a video like this when I first started in 2013, it would have saved hours of frustration, confusion, researching as well as money spent on items that were unnecessary or obsolete. I will update this video description, the FAQ on my website, and the comments below to answer anything I may have missed.
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"Christmas Light Show Matrix with Text MessagingLiving Light Shows2014-11-30 | In 2014 we desired to add a new level of functionality to our outdoor Christmas light show that would allow viewers to interact with the show. The natural method of interaction was SMS (Text Messaging) because every viewer likely had a cell phone and it did not require any special app on their phone. Once I figured out how to write software to interact with text messages I had to figure out what I wanted the users to be able to do. I initially thought about having them be able to change the color of the lights by texting a color but then decided against it for various reason. I eventually decided that being able to text your name and having it scroll across our two large pixel matrixes would be really cool (who doesn't like to see their name super large in lights?!) so that is what I did. In order to prevent people from typing inappropriate things, I wrote the software to validate what they texted against a database of given names that I compiled from multiple sources including the US Census database. The database after de-dupping ended up being about 26,000 first names. If the user texted a valid first name it would queue the name for display and text them how long they would need to wait before it would show (I limited it to 10 names for each run of my 10 minute light show). If they sent an invalid name it sent them back a message stating their input was invalid.
After the show ends, the display scrolls the words "Merry Christmas..." and then lists the names of up to 10 people who texted their name during the show.
So far it has been a big hit! especially for kids who love seeing their names scrolling across our house.
Prior to 2014, this type of thing was not possible. I would like to thank the Falcon Christmas team (www.falconchristmas.com), especially Chris, who really worked hard to implement Memory Map Block functionality into the Falcon Pi Player (FPP) on a tight deadline no less for me to have it ready for our big television reveal. The text messaging API that I used was Twilio which offers an awesome API.
Hope you guys get some ideas from this and I would love to see what kind of projects you come up with as well!
If you would like to build this matrix or any of the other elements in my light show including a Pixel Leaping Arch, Pixel Trees, Pixel Matrix, Wreaths, or Snowflakes, click to watch my HOW-TO series here: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ojLndg_GsMVdVZSh_ALLiDf
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"Part 3: How to build a Pixel Matrix/Pixel Grid for an outdoor Christmas light showLiving Light Shows2014-11-29 | If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
Here are some facts about the Matrix in this video since they are likely the most common questions:
1. The Matrix is 70” wide and about 60” tall. 2. The pixel spacing is 2” horizontally and vertically. I found this spacing to be sufficient for a viewing distance of about 50 feet which is the distance from the windows to the street. 3. There are 30 rows with 34 pixels each row. 4. The Pixel Matrix is wired in a zig-zag pattern 5. There are 5 rows per string. 6 strings total. This means it uses 6 outputs on my SanDevices e682 Pixel Controller. This works out perfectly because it is 170 pixels per output which is 512 channels (or one universe exactly) which makes things simple and easy to configure. 6. Each string is powered from both ends to ensure uniform brightness in all spots on the matrix.
Have you been watching ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight or browsing videos on YouTube of Christmas Light shows or displays that are synchronized to music and wondered how you can do that to your house? This video is part of a five video series that I created based on emails I have received from others who have watched my lightshow and are interested in the elements, the technology, and how a person can get started with their own DIY Christmas display. I have attempted to show a basic overview of building elements for your own light show on a budget and with readily available materials from Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, or other stores.
This video series includes the following:
Part 1: How to build a Leaping Arch for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 2: How to build a Pixel Tree for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 3: How to build a Pixel Matrix/Pixel Grid for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 4: How to build a Pixel Wreath for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 5: How to build a Pixel Snowflake for an outdoor Christmas light show
If you plan to use these elements with Pixel LED lights then you will need a controller, sequencing software, and a show player. For my Christmas Light Show (www.johnsonlightshow.com) I used the SanDevices e682 pixel controller with a Raspberry Pi running the Falcon Pi Player (FPP) software that is freely available through Falcon Christmas (www.falconchristmas.com) or Github for the show player.
For sequencing the show (i.e., Programming the different effects the lights will do) there are many available options in software, some are commercial and some are open source or free. My preferred software is called Vixen 3. Other popular options include Light-O-Rama (also known as Lightorama, Light o rama, or LOR), Light Show Pro, Madrix, Hinkle’s Lighting Sequencer (HLS), Nutcracker, and more.
For your soundtrack you can either create something custom (I used a free program called Audacity) or you can simply download an MP3 or WAV file of music you like and import it into your sequencing software.
In order to have a great looking show you do not need to spend a lot of money. The largest cost is the RGB pixels that can be purchased direct from China through vendors like Ray Wu on Aliexpress for as low as $0.19 each. In addition, you can scale your show so you can start out small and grow as your budget grows.
The Pixels I use in my show are all 12vdc WS2811 pixels.
Other great resources for getting started and learning more Christmas Lights, Displays, and Light Shows, are listed below:
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"Part 2: How to build a Pixel Tree for an outdoor Christmas light showLiving Light Shows2014-11-28 | The Pixel tree in this video costs less than $15 to construct! (not including the lights).
If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
Have you been watching ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight or browsing videos on YouTube of Christmas Light shows or displays that are synchronized to music and wondered how you can do that to your house? This video is part of a five video series that I created based on emails I have received from others who have watched my lightshow and are interested in the elements, the technology, and how a person can get started with their own DIY Christmas display. I have attempted to show a basic overview of building elements for your own light show on a budget and with readily available materials from Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, or other stores.
This video series includes the following:
Part 1: How to build a Leaping Arch for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 2: How to build a Pixel Tree for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 3: How to build a Pixel Matrix/Pixel Grid for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 4: How to build a Pixel Wreath for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 5: How to build a Pixel Snowflake for an outdoor Christmas light show
If you plan to use these elements with Pixel LED lights then you will need a controller, sequencing software, and a show player. For my Christmas Light Show (www.johnsonlightshow.com) I used the SanDevices e682 pixel controller with a Raspberry Pi running the Falcon Pi Player (FPP) software that is freely available through Falcon Christmas (www.falconchristmas.com) or Github for the show player.
For sequencing the show (i.e., Programming the different effects the lights will do) there are many available options in software, some are commercial and some are open source or free. My preferred software is called Vixen 3. Other popular options include Light-O-Rama (also known as Lightorama, Light o rama, or LOR), Light Show Pro, Madrix, Hinkle’s Lighting Sequencer (HLS), Nutcracker, and more.
For your soundtrack you can either create something custom (I used a free program called Audacity) or you can simply download an MP3 or WAV file of music you like and import it into your sequencing software.
In order to have a great looking show you do not need to spend a lot of money. The largest cost is the RGB pixels that can be purchased direct from China through vendors like Ray Wu on Aliexpress for as low as $0.19 each. In addition, you can scale your show so you can start out small and grow as your budget grows.
The Pixels I use in my show are all 12vdc WS2811 pixels.
Other great resources for getting started and learning more Christmas Lights, Displays, and Light Shows, are listed below:
Matt Johnson www.johnsonlightshow.com 2014 Contestant on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight"Part 1: How to build a Leaping Arch for an outdoor Christmas light showLiving Light Shows2014-11-27 | I have been told that the orange bases I used in this video are no longer available so I have started building kits that are improved over my original DIY design. You can purchase the Arch Base Kits here: http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?42362-HDPE-Arch-Kits
If you are interested in buying these and other light show products already built, please visit my new store Living Light Shows: http://www.livinglightshows.com. You can also see some demonstration videos here of the products: youtu.be/YZ7m2F4bjH0?list=PLOp9Tx63j4ohTbZJ2050ZdmRUHKHe0gz2
All you will need to complete the arches is the following:
Have you been watching ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight or browsing videos on YouTube of Christmas Light shows or displays that are synchronized to music and wondered how you can do that to your house? This video is part of a five video series that I created based on emails I have received from others who have watched my lightshow and are interested in the elements, the technology, and how a person can get started with their own DIY Christmas display. I have attempted to show a basic overview of building elements for your own light show on a budget and with readily available materials from Home Depot, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, or other stores.
Here are some additional details on the arches not clearly covered in the video that I have been asked about:
1. The slits at the bottom of the tube are about 2 inches long and 1/8" wide (or a little wider). I did them in two places on each side opposite of each other. They are there so the clamp can squeeze the tubing against the rebar cap and keep it tight. Without the slit, you cannot get the tube sufficiently tight on the rebar clamp.
2. The pipe clamp is actually a pipe hanger I think it what it is called. I got it at Home Depot in the section that pipe fittings, EMT, etc. It's intended purpose is to support a 2" conduit hanging from a ceiling. The cross bar screws into the clamp where you would ordinarily put a threaded rod if it was hanging from a ceiling.
3. The Cross bar is 1/2" EMT and painted black for aesthetics only.
4. The arch is staked to the ground, heavy duty tent stakes work great.
This video series includes the following:
Part 1: How to build a Leaping Arch for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 2: How to build a Pixel Tree for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 3: How to build a Pixel Matrix/Pixel Grid for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 4: How to build a Pixel Wreath for an outdoor Christmas light show
Part 5: How to build a Pixel Snowflake for an outdoor Christmas light show
If you plan to use these elements with Pixel LED lights then you will need a controller, sequencing software, and a show player. For my Christmas Light Show (www.johnsonlightshow.com) I used the SanDevices e682 pixel controller with a Raspberry Pi running the Falcon Pi Player (FPP) software that is freely available through Falcon Christmas (www.falconchristmas.com) or Github for the show player.
For sequencing the show (i.e., Programming the different effects the lights will do) there are many available options in software, some are commercial and some are open source or free. My preferred software is called Vixen 3. Other popular options include Light-O-Rama (also known as Lightorama, Light o rama, or LOR), Light Show Pro, Madrix, Hinkle’s Lighting Sequencer (HLS), Nutcracker, and more.
For your soundtrack you can either create something custom (I used a free program called Audacity) or you can simply download an MP3 or WAV file of music you like and import it into your sequencing software.
Other great resources for getting started and learning more Christmas Lights, Displays, and Light Shows, are listed below:
2013 Johnson Family Christmas Light Show (Dubstep Theme) in San Antonio, TX.
Subscribe to be notified of our 2014 video which has twice the pixels, new effects, and a revised soundtrack including Frozen and Lego Movie dubstep!
Interested in building some of these elements yourself? Check out my How-To videos on building the Pixel Trees, Arches, and Matrix Grids that you see in this video: