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The Little Bayfront Christmas Carnival began as a man's vision, but has become a community tradition

Once the decorations begin to go up in September, he said the best part is watching generations of families come year after year.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Snow doesn't even have to be in the forecast to see it falling at this house on 1316 Buford Street, and it draws some big crowds, too. 

"I had a homeless couple, they were dancing right there in the street in the lights the other night, and that was like -- I love spontaneous stuff like that,” said creator Jesse Guerrero. “It just happens." 

The display is built around a koi pond, and this year, it’s one of his biggest.

The Little Bayfront Christmas Carnival began 35 years ago when he was 17 years old. He said the carnival lighting started at least 10 years ago, and the community helps it all come together. 

"I get donations sometimes from people to bring in stuffed animals, toys and stuff like that to give out," he said.  

On Wednesday night, a stuffed bear was given out, and another night will be a stuffed Pikachu. He explained that prizes are given out spontaneously — like when someone breaks out into a dance. 

"The biggest prize we have — next to the giant teddy bear — is these giant Goku dolls,” he said. “These are 21-inch Goku dolls. You really have to go all out." 

Guerrero said that, for the last 15 years, a secret Santa donates hundreds of dollars to help him buy what he needs.

He said he doesn't know who it is, but it helped him start early this year.

Once the decorations begin to go up in September, he said the best part is watching generations of families come year after year. 

"Hearing them laugh and, not just seeing the display -- but the kids laughing and with parents and stuff, like having a good time. That's when I know I've done my work." 

There's still time to visit the display on Buford Street, and Guerrero encourages people to come as soon as they can ahead of Christmas.

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