Northport’s holiday ‘leg lamp’ lighting canceled

One of Long Island’s holiday traditions has come to an end. The “Leg Lamp Lighting,” a zany event put on by Northport Hardware that drew thousands of spectators to the village storefront’s window the Saturday after Thanksgiving, will no longer take place.

“We did it for 10 years,” says co-owner Jim Reichert. “We are a little tired, it’s a lot of work and it costs us money.”

The event, which is centered on the ceremonial lighting of a replica of the leg lamp featured in the 1983 film “A Christmas Story,” grew over the years to include performances from Northport High School’s kickline and a pipe and drum band. The fire department brought its decorated antique fire truck and the original film was even projected outdoors for a viewing before the big moment.

“It’s a great party without a doubt, but I have no help right now,” Reichert says.

As for the lamp, Reichert says it will still grace the shop’s window during the holiday season.

Reichert adds, “It was a great time, but everything has to come to an end at some point.”

By David J. Criblez

david.criblez@newsday.comDavidJCriblez

David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.