Just a Coincidence this Covid Christmas? The ‘Home Alone' House Celebrates 30 Years
Written by: Sara E. Teller
Has the pandemic left you spending more time at home during this celebratory season? While your holidays may be far more mellow than Kevin McCallister’s in Home Alone, you might finally have the time to revisit this beloved classic as it celebrates its 30th anniversary. At Jim Shaffer & Associates, we love tying pop culture moments back to the idea of home—especially when they’re as iconic as this one.
Originally released in 1990, Home Alone follows eight-year-old Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin), who is accidentally left behind while his family rushes out the door for a flight to Paris. His absence isn’t realized until his mother, Kate—played by Catherine O’Hara, whom many now recognize from Schitt’s Creek—has that unforgettable moment of panic mid-flight and screams, “Kevin!”
Back at home, Kevin believes he has magically wished his family away and embraces his newfound independence. From jumping on the bed and eating popcorn to snooping through his brother Buzz’s belongings and watching forbidden movies, Kevin enjoys every minute—until two burglars set their sights on the seemingly empty house. What follows turns the home into a surprisingly effective defense system, proving that even a quiet neighborhood house can have a lot of personality.
The expansive red-brick Colonial—better known as the Home Alone house—is as memorable as the movie itself. Built in 1920 and located at 671 Lincoln Avenue in Winnetka, Illinois, the home spans more than 4,200 square feet and sits just north of Evanston near Lake Michigan. With five bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, and a layout perfect for cinematic chaos, it’s easy to see why it became one of the most recognizable houses in movie history. Homes with this kind of character often spark curiosity among buyers exploring neighborhoods similar to Ferndale, where unique architecture and strong community appeal go hand in hand.
The Home Alone House
In real life, the home sold in 2012 for more than $1.5 million and includes features like a detached garage, greenhouse, spacious kitchen, and standout staircase—ideal for both entertaining and, apparently, fending off fictional burglars. If watching Kevin defend his childhood home has you wondering about your own property’s value, you can always find out what your home is worth with help from local experts.
Decked out in festive holiday décor, the home’s exterior provided a perfect backdrop for the film. During production, the homeowners stayed on set to ensure their property remained unharmed despite the movie’s many antics. That care and pride of ownership is something we often highlight in stories shared through our community and lifestyle blog.
So if you haven’t revisited this must-watch film in the last 30 years, now might be the perfect time. Watching Kevin’s chaotic Christmas is also a gentle reminder to appreciate the calm moments at home—something our real estate team and local agents know is more important than ever. Happy watching, and in the spirit of Home Alone, Merry Christmas, ya filthy animal!
