Christmas spirit is showcased in homes decorated for the holidays

The owner of a brightly decorated house in Calexico said it’s not Santa’s house, but it could be.

Jesus Fuerte said, “I do it because it’s Christmas, the birth of Jesus. And it’s a time to give love.”

He said his house holiday decorations have been drawing the community out for the past 15 years.

“I like seeing the joy of kids when they come to take pictures with their parents and families,” Fuerte said.

He wants everyone to follow his example.

“I would like more families to decorate their homes like they used to do before,” Fuerte said.

City officials said Christmas decorating is a strong local tradition.

Council Member Armando Real said, “I do recall when I was younger there was a specific street where people – I remember as a child – my father would cruise by there and see all the beautiful homes,” Real said.

Council Member Bill Hodge said the area was “extremely family oriented because of its connection and extension to Mexicali and there are traditions that carry over into Calexico.”

They plan to start recognizing holiday decorations next year.

“Definitely something we should look into, start maybe a competition,” Real said.

“I think we should go back by next year where we celebrate and we recognize the families and homes that really celebrate Christmas by decorating their homes in such a beautiful way,” Hodge said.
Fuerte said thousands of dollars went into his holidays’ decorations. He plans to upgrade to more spectacular decorations next year.

More details in our newscast.