South Florida

Popular Christmas Display in Plantation Continues to Attract Hundreds Amid Controversy

One of South Florida's most over-the-top holiday lights displays is back open for the season. The lights may be pretty, but the massive display is extremely controversial.

The Plantation couple's display attracts hundreds of visitors each night but the city says it's a nuisance.

The lights come on every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving and the owners of the property, the Hyatt family, said even though city officials aren't happy about it, the payoff is from the public.

The colors and characters of Christmas come with a merry message.

"It's to share the traditions with the community, some of the things that are slipping in our society nowadays. Instead of maybe spending time in line to get a retail deal on a flat-screen, I'd rather have them spend time with us and enjoy our traditions," Mark Hyatt said.

The Christmas display in front of the Plantation home is open to the public every year during the holidays. It's a family tradition for the Hyatt family.

"I dedicate this to my father and my mother, it was very deep in their heart and the traditions within our family," Hyatt said.

Visiting the display has become tradition for many South Florida families.

"We come here every year for at least the last ten years. We bring our grandchildren here," Susie Jerome said.

The Hyatt family said bringing others joy is the payoff. But the display is bringing the Hyatts more than just joy. It also has them in a battle with the city.

The fines aren't the only issue. The City of Plantation has filed a lawsuit asking a judge to put an end to all this.

Some neighbors complain the crowds bring too much traffic to Northwest 14th Street. For the last few years, road closures have been in place, preventing vehicles from driving up to the home, forcing them to walk.

Mark Hyatt said he's not concerned, "I think the city and the lawyers and the courts will work it out. Our traditions will be the same." He said he will continue to put up the display as long as he can.

The home is located at 11201 NW 14th Street in Plantation.

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