ROSEDALE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – There are many Christmas light displays around the Wabash Valley. But one in particular is not like any other. We caught up with the Keltz family about why their display is special to the community and to their family.
“We made the candy canes out of some fiberglass pipe that I had and we’ve had them there ever since,” Kenny Keltz said.
It started with candy canes, but now it’s a Christmas wonderland. Thanks to the hard work and creativity of the Keltz family.
Every year since the 1980’s, the Keltz family has decorated their yard with special displays. Each display is handmade and can take up to four days to make.
“After we cut them out, then we have to paint them. You have to paint them with a water based paint so it won’t melt the Styrofoam,” Kenny said.
Most of the displays are made from Styrofoam or other materials.
The Santa Cabin and the Candy Cane Cafe, complete with hot chocolate and cookies, are made from scratch.
“We used three days to take the cabinets apart and that’s the inside of this cabin . The outside is all done in Styrofoam,” said Dama Keltz.
Kenny Keltz said he tries to have new items every year.
“It’s hard to. You gotta come up with something that is maybe different. You know and I don’t know what next year’s gonna be,” Kenny said.
Not only does the Keltz family get to enjoy making the display, but many families get to see the lights and children get to visit with Santa before Christmas.
The Keltz family says Christmas is their favorite holiday.
“We just love it and we just wanted to do something for the community,” said Dama.
“It’s the highlight of my year. Who doesn’t love Christmas for the most part?,” Dalton Keltz said.
The Keltz family would also like to make note that they do not take any donations and they do this from the kindness of their hearts.
The Keltz Candy Cane Christmas display is located just north of Terre Haute on US- 41 near the Lyford Y.
If you’d like to visit the display, it will be up for the rest of the month.
For a look at more Christmas lights around the Terre Haute area watch the video below:
