Novi Man Creates Stunning Christmas Display to Celebrate the Birth of Jesus

Novi Man Transforms Home into Christmas Wonderland to Honor Jesus

By Charity Meier

Novi, MI — As the holiday season envelops neighborhoods in twinkling lights and festive cheer, one local resident has taken his Christmas spirit to new heights. John Karakian, a devoted Novi homeowner, has turned his residence at 2450 Shawood St. into a dazzling display not just for the festive fun but as a heartfelt homage to the birth of Jesus.

More Than Just Lights

“I just like doing it for the beauty of it, but the main thing about the lights is to me it commemorates the birth of Christ,” Karakian shared. He firmly believes that the lights symbolize the true essence of the Christmas season. “The reason for the season is Jesus. He’s the light of the world.”

The Christmas lights, for Karakian, echo ancient traditions. “In Germany, they used to light candles and place them on Christmas trees,” he reminisced. This isn’t just about decoration; it’s about spreading the message of hope and joy that comes with the holiday.

A Labor of Love

Karakian, who is the chairman for the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, has been decorating his home every year since he moved to Novi in 1995. His display has evolved over the years, now featuring moving lights, cheerful Santas, playful snowmen, and glimmering snowflakes. Inside, several themed Christmas trees and a large Rudolph with an elf riding on him add warmth to his home.

This year, Karakian began preparing in mid-November, adding a little bit of cheer each day until the grand reveal was ready. The outdoor installation typically takes about a week, but with dedication, it could be completed in a single day. “I hate taking it down because it looks so good,” he admitted. “It’s like it’s all dressed up. It has its suit on, a bow tie and tuxedo on.”

Keeping the Festivities Alive

What’s even more exciting is that he plans to keep the lights shining through January. “It looks good as the wind is blowing and the snow is coming down,” he said. “I mean, it’s a pretty good night-light out there.”

While he admits he has no clue how much he has invested in lights over the years, he estimates it to be in the thousands. This year, he also decorated the home of his girlfriend, Christel Stauch, adding a joyful touch to her space as well.

Smart Shopping Tips for Holiday Decor

Karakian offered advice for those wanting to create their own magical displays. “The best time to buy lights is right after the holidays when everything is on sale,” he noted. His favorite shops? Farmer John’s Greenhouse in Farmington Hills and Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth. “They call me ‘Bronner’s South’ because I’ve got so much of their stuff here,” he laughed.

Starting with simple strands of lights can ease anyone into the holiday spirit. “If it makes you feel good and you want to do more, do more,” he said. He suggests choosing durable decorations to save on replacement costs in the future.

A Community Attraction

Delighted neighbors have taken notice of Karakian’s elaborate display. “I’ve had neighbors come by, and they get blown away by it,” he exclaimed. His home has even garnered a fun comment from a visitor who called his wife saying, “I just found out where Santa Claus lives!”

Spreading Joy Through Lights

In terms of energy costs, Karakian hasn’t noticed a significant difference. He keeps the lights on at night and turns them off before heading to bed. The only exceptions? Christmas Eve and Christmas Day when the whole neighborhood glows in celebration. “It’s worth it for the joy,” he said, embodying the true Christmas spirit.

As for Stauch, his girlfriend, she shares his enthusiasm. Having decorated extensively with her late husband, she appreciates Karakian’s love for the holidays. Together, they celebrate not only the spirit of Christmas but its deeper significance.

So, if you’re in the area, take a trip to Shawood Street this festive season and experience Karakian’s stunning light display, a shining testament to the joy and meaning of Christmas.