It's Not too Late to See the Light

It all started with a ferris wheel.

Roger Schmidt, who lives at 921 Shakopee Ave. E. created the moving display nearly 8 years ago after, as he put it, he decided to quit racing cars.

Today his home is so bright with holiday lights, it's nearly impossible to miss if you're driving on Tenth Street. It takes up nearly every available space around his home, features more than 100,000 lights and about half a dozen moving displays including a merry-go-round, swings and teeter-totter. New this year is a moving train, which cruises up to 20 miles an hour, if Schmidt decides to kick it up a notch.

Schmidt said all the work that goes into the display takes a team, and his parents, Paul and Lavina Schmidt of Shakopee are just as committed to making the display better each year.

Lavina Schmidt does crafts and a coloring contest in the basement with kids through Dec. 24 while Paul tends the fire pit out back. Both invest countless hours building displays, while friends of Roger Schmidt play Santa and Mrs. Claus, handing out candy canes and posing for photos.

Hot chocoloate and coffee are offered and with the lack of snow this season, Roger Schmidt said he's seen record crowds – up to 300 per night since Dec. 2.

"What can I say – it's fun," he said. 

While the arts and crafts are no longer offered, the display will be lighted through New Year's Eve and the public is welcome to walk on the pathway around his home. It's free, but donations are accepted to go toward the costs of the display. Toys are also being collected for local children.