WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. – When it comes to holiday decorations, Jorge Melendez believes there’s no such thing as too much. His passion for creating a Christmas masterpiece began at a young age.
“Honestly, [it] started probably when I was about 10 or 11 years old when I lived in New York. My dad started with a wall display,” Melendez explained. “Me and my family moved here in about 2004, and it’s developed into what you see behind us now.”
What’s behind him is a dazzling yard in Winter Springs, adorned with a giant inflatable deer, a sparkling red ribbon arching over the driveway, neon lights, dazzling snowflakes, nutcrackers and much more.
“LEDs that we have out this year, maybe just 5,000 or 6,000,” Menendez said. “Actual lawn ornaments and all that, we’re somewhere in the like 70, 80 area.”
[COUNTY-BY-COUNTY GUIDE: Central Florida holiday events to get in the spirit this 2024 season]
“It’s an addiction. I went out for hurricane supplies and came home with more pieces this season,” he laughed.
As part of News 6’s spotlight on holiday homes, we asked Melendez about the inspiration behind his display, which can take up to two weeks to complete with four people helping out.
“It’s just great to see my son, my daughter, when she’s here, and my wife. You know, we have a very strong bond, and this just shows it,” Melendez said.
Melendez’s hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed by his neighbors. Chad Cartledge, who lives across the street, shared his appreciation for the festive display.
“We have probably one of the best views of the display in the neighborhood, being across the street,” Cartledge said. “The thing I love is, throughout the day and throughout the night, people drive by, slowing down. You see families with kids getting out of their cars. It’s bringing joy to people. It’s bringing smiles to the faces of these kids. It’s showing people that the season still is alive and well.”
[RELATED: Where to find Christmas lights twinkling around Central Florida]
While Melendez’s home is in a gated community, there are plenty of other holiday displays to admire.
Have your own impressive lighting display? News 6 wants to see it! Share photos of your decorated home, and you could be featured on WKMG-TV.
All featured homes will also appear on ClickOrlando.com for the whole community to enjoy.
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