Houston home's Christmas light display goes to new heights

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A house on Barkley Street on Houston's southeast side could be decorated with the most elaborate Christmas display in the Houston area.

Candy Calda recruits her whole family to start decorating each November. And, for the last four years, they have created their very own Christmas Village -- wrapping from the front yard, to the side of the house, into the backyard and on top of the roof.

"I've done a lot of research and every Christmas decoration you can associate with the birth of Christ," said Calda.

Along the pathway, you can read stories about the birth of Jesus and the connection between Christmas and candy canes and snowmen. All of it is translated into Spanish as well.

"It's the spirit of smiles and happiness and joy and it fills our hearts -- so what better way," said Wendy Quick, Calda's daughter, who dresses as Mrs. Claus for the nights when they're open to the public for walkthroughs.

There's a mistletoe archway where sweeties can sneak a kiss and even a makeshift movie theatre where children can watch Christmas cartoons.

Calda's grandchildren even get in on the action, dressing as elves and angels.

But, Calda's favorite part is the small village she started 30 years ago.

"My husband built me a room just for my village and for my Santa collection," she said.

Neighbors we talked to don't think the decorations are overboard; in fact they're totally on board with the display.

"A lot of houses don't have lights," said Alexandra Rico, who lives across the street. "That's the most lighted house in the neighborhood and the kids love it. They're so happy every time it's up."

"I mean, it's not really my style, but I like it, "said Edgar Gamboa. "It's the holidays."

Anyone can walk through the display for free, but Calda does take donations, she said, to help with her light bill.

Calda said last year between 50 and 100 people came through, but she is expecting a larger crowd this year. They're open to the public every Friday and Saturday in December as well as on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. The display is located at 8443 Barkley, near I-45 and Howard in southeast Houston.

Send photos and video of your favorite light displays to news@abc13.com.