BAXTER, Minn. — The array of lights, gingerbread men and peppermint swirls outside of Kathy Fitzpatrick’s house in Baxter, Minnesota, is just the smallest taste of what lies beyond the front door.

A sweet treat awaits visitors inside.

Armed with a new theme each Christmas, Fitzpatrick spends almost a year collecting new decorations for her annual display. It’s a tradition she started several years ago.

The Fitzpatrick family gathers to celebrate Christmas on Thanksgiving weekend. At that time, the kids, grandkids and great-grandkids are tasked with throwing out three theme ideas for next year. Then, Fitzpatrick picks a winner and starts shopping for her decorations once everything goes on sale Jan. 2.

She scours online listings on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist and scoops up all t

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