TINLEY PARK, IL (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Christmastime is here and houses along Tinley Park have transformed into a winter wonderland.
"It became tradition at this point where these homes are coming together," said Steven Ford, Tinley Park resident.
Ford and his neighbors, Matt McKeigue and Scott O'Connor, have some of the best Christmas decorations on the South Side.
"People travel quite a distance to come see these displays in Tinley," said McKeigue.
The three neighbors collaborate annually and use O'Connor's decorations for their massive holiday tradition.
"We always decorated but we kind of followed his lead," said McKeigue.
O'Connor, the winner of ABC7's 2021 Great Chicago Light Fight, lights up his home and surrounding neighborhood with giant trees, snowmen and thousands of lights. He's loved decorating since he was a child and has now taken his passion to new heights. His display is known as the "O'Connor Christmas Lights," located at 7414 162nd Place.
"I've been doing this for maybe ten years; for all the smiles, all the kids that come out, happiness," said O'Connor.
For nearly a decade, the Tinley Park resident has put up his eye-catching display for his community. Like other houses in the neighborhood, O'Connor uses his decorations for good and aims to raise money for local causes. He is currently taking donations for Project Fire Buddies, a nonprofit effort led by local fire departments that helps children battling critical illnesses.
O'Connor said the local organization is close to his heart. After dealing with the loss of his own children, he understands battling grief during the holidays. He hopes his displays bring happiness to his community.
"The O'Connor family is not only sharing Christmas magic with all of us, but they're also sharing love and kindness by collecting donations for Project Fire Buddies at their display," Project Fire Buddies said in a Facebook post.
Project Fire Buddies began in 2016 when firefighters and paramedics, from the Oak Forest Fire Department, helped a child who was struggling with complications from cancer. The organization has since expanded to over 80 chapters spanning across the Midwest.
Other houses in Tinley Park are raising donations while also gaining recognition including the Hirsch family home, located at 7805 Nottingham Drive, which was the winner of this year's Great Chicago Light Fight. The Hirsh's are taking donations for PAWS.
"Tinley Park is a great community," said McKeigue.
It seems there is no street in Tinley Park untouched by the spirit of Christmas. The three neighbors smile as they show off their lights and see children hug Santa.
"Go big or go home," said McKeigue.
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