'Over a million lights': Santa Bevy brings Christmas cheer to Calgary community

Santa Bevy has brought the North Pole to northwest Calgary.

An assortment of Christmas lights, giant blow-ups, and nativity scenes are among the holiday decor welcoming visitors to the Scenic Acres home.

"There's over a million lights. I know that for sure," said Santa Bevy.

Behind the Santa Bevy beard is Bev Cuckow, who's been going all out for Christmas in the city for the last decade.

"I love people," he said. "And so when I meet people, I give them a hug."

This year's display might be the biggest yet, Cuckow says. There's something for everyone: more than 15 metres of candy canes, a sled surrounded by Christmas lights, and more than 40 blow-ups of everything from Santa's reindeer to characters from Frozen and Star Wars.

On top of that, he and his wife Tanya (a.k.a. Mrs. Claus) started the month off with a bang by hosting free events each day during the first week of December.

Those events ranged from therapy dog photos with Santa, to a magic and talent show, to a live nativity scene with a youth church group, all at Santa Bevy's house.

"Tanya loves to see the children," he said. "I get them to come to the door to see Mrs. Claus after they've seen Santa. They look happier when they see her than when they see me."

The couple also hands out custom colouring books to visitors. This year's edition, Santa Bevy Tells Funny Bunny to Travel Canada, showcases destinations and festive scenes across Canada.

It's an expensive-looking setup, but to Tanya and Bev, it's priceless.

"You know, Tanya can't travel," he said. "So, I could have gone to Hawaii, but I spent the money here."

Marie Belanger is a friend of the Cuckows. She's one of the many Calgarians that look forward to their Christmas displays every year.

"This is his heart and soul at Christmas time," she said.

For Belanger, it's an opportunity for the community come together.

"My hope is that we will have more of this fostering of community, this fostering of family, that we can ... be able to have relationships with our neighbors that are lifelong friendships," she said.

Santa Bevy's display is at 7 Scandia Point N.W., and Cuckow says visitors are always welcome to come check it out.

"Christmas lights are on all year round, because my wife likes that," he said.