The Clanton Advertiser

Every holiday season for the past 24 years, Gerald Blackmon has created a magical world surrounding his property filled with Christmas lights and festive décor appropriately titled, “Fantasyland.”

Blackmon, 68, tediously begins decorating in early September, more than seven acres of his property off County Road 128 near the Chilton County side of Calera for all ages to come and enjoy his love of Christmas.

“I just love Christmas,” Blackmon said. “Seeing the kids stop by and enjoy the Christmas lights is a lot of fun for me.”

Blackmon leaves the decorations out until people stop coming by Fantasyland after Christmas which he said is usually three or four days after the holiday.

Blackmon’s daughter, Wessica Wargo said her father looks forward to decorating all year.

“He just loves doing this,” Wargo said. “He has done this ever since I have been a little girl.”

Although Blackmon said he has no idea how many lights span his property, his electricity bill for the holidays is typically more than $1,000.

A donation drop-off is located near Blackmon’s home to help with the cost of decorations.

Perusers of the lights can either drive-thru Blackmon’s property or walk along the designated path.

Blackmon, also known as Santa, hosts “Santa and Me Pictures” every weekend from Thursday-Saturday for $5 or $3 if you bring your own camera.

“So many people these days don’t decorate their houses like this anymore so it is fun for my Dad to provide a tradition for a lot of families to come by and enjoy,” Wargo said.

Anyone interested in visiting Fantasyland can find the house by traveling Highway 25 in Calera. Blackmon has red and white signs posted at different intervals along the route leading directly to his property.