Blasko Family Christmas Lights switch on for last time

MISHAWAKA, Ind. — After more than a decade dazzling the community, the beloved Blasko Family Christmas Lights display in Mishawaka had its final lighting on Christmas Eve.

Homeowner Phil Blasko said it started as a simple family project 11 years ago, but quickly grew into something electric, raising thousands of dollars for a local homeless center over the years and even snagging a trophy in 2024 on ABC's 'The Great Christmas Light Fight'.

“…as I walk through the display, you see all the stuff that we have built together, and you can’t go back in time you know, so, it’s gonna be hard,” said Phil. “It takes us nearly six months now to do it all, put it all up, take it all back down. Our kids are getting older and they’re in sports… so there’s literally just not enough time in the day anymore for us to be able to do it all, and also it would be nice to park in our garage.”

On top of walking away as champions in 'The Great Christmas Light Fight', earning $50,000, and making a community very proud, they also spent the years giving back.

“So, all the money that we raise through our display, it all goes to the kids that live at the Center for the Homeless and any of the single parents that live there as well... our goal this year is to raise over 10 grand,” explained Phil.

As the final glow fades, the Blasko family’s biggest win is the legacy left behind with the community, and they hope people will pick up where they left off.

“I would encourage everybody with their kids to start putting up lights and just see what happens. A little spark, you never know what’s gonna happen from it. 11 years later look at what we have created, it’s quite the monster, but it is bringing so much joy throughout the holiday season,” said Phil.