Southport residence upholds a 40-year legacy of adorning its exterior with festive Christmas lights

Southport, Indiana – A Southport man has been spreading holiday cheer on Indy’s south side for 40 years, showcasing everything from vintage Christmas decorations to a flying Santa and sleigh.

Every twinkling light, glowing angel, toy soldier, and gingerbread man has a story to tell.

“Trust me, it’s been quite the effort, though I’m not sure if I’d label it love, but it’s definitely been a labor of some sort,” chuckled Southport resident Greg Schaub.

The stories began 40 years ago for Schaub.

“I’ve spent years out here in heavy rain, having to create a makeshift tent to move from one scene to another,” Schaub explained. “For years, I’ve been shoveling four to five inches of snow.”

Schaub starts preparing his yearly Christmas display outside his home around Halloween or soon after. The show springs to life the moment he cues the music in December.

Over the years, the assistance he gets in constructing the enormous display has increased.

“It’s impossible to proceed without it,” Schaub stated. “I have numerous helpers from Santa.”
The helpers primarily include grandchildren, employees from his electrical and mechanical business, and interns from Roncalli High School.

Each handcrafted timer and electrical system contributes to a distinct glimmer, making every piece one-of-a-kind. A power system inspired by ‘Clark Griswold’ from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is also available.

“This sets it in motion.” “There’s a 100-amp contractor up there, so everything activates simultaneously, and then boom,” Schaub stated. “We are committed.”

Schaub’s yard features over 100 unique displays. He mentioned that he has lost track of how many bulbs he goes through annually.

Schaub mentioned that he incorporates a new element each year, similar to his latest shiny Christmas tree. It all began with a single original plastic Santa and snowman that have since transformed into focal points.

He views the majority of his displays as vintage.

“I’m old school,” Schaub said with a smile. “The only items I have that are blown up or inflatable in my yard are there because of my grandchildren.” Aside from that, we embody a classic vintage style.

However, there is one item that Schaub holds in the highest regard.

“I had this wild notion of wanting to have Santa and two traditional reindeer soaring over my roof,” Schaub explained.

Schaub’s brother played a key role in crafting the flying Santa, ensuring that every flight over his chimney was truly remarkable.

“Flying Santa means the world,” Schaub stated. “I lost my brother 27 years ago, so this means a lot for Santa to fly for me.” It’s due to the fact that he is my brother. Each year since his departure, it’s entirely his.

Schaub dedicates the entire display to his close church friend’s son, 6-year-old Robbie Schutz. Schaub detailed that the young boy lost his life in a heartbreaking accident over two decades ago.
The reason Schaub continues to showcase this event annually is straightforward.

“Each year, a young child approaches me and says, ‘Oh Mr., this is so amazing.’ Thank you for taking the time to do this. This year, I’ve encountered several fathers, slightly younger than myself, who have brought their sons and grandkids along. They often share with me, ‘For over 30 years, we’ve always come here.’

Years later, the 70-year-old resident of Southport expressed that sharing holiday joy is what will forever justify the effort put in.