Gilley Family Christmas Lights Display Pauses Tradition for 2025, Request Prayers

Ball Play — A cherished holiday tradition in the Ball Play community will not be shining this Christmas. The Gilley family announced on social media that their famous Christmas light display will not be put up this year, asking the public to keep their family in their prayers.

The spectacular display — an engineering wonder originally created by the late J.C. Gilley — has delighted families across the area and beyond since the early 1980s. Known for its homemade animated pieces, hand-crafted wooden characters, and intricate mechanical designs built from everyday household parts, the display became a staple holiday outing for generations.

This is not the first time the lights have gone dark, but the family did not share specific reasons for this year’s pause. Even so, the tradition remains deeply rooted in the hearts of those who grew up visiting the Gilley home each Christmas season. Many who once marveled at the lights as children now bring their own kids to experience the magic.

After Mr. Gilley’s passing, his sons, Mike and Donnie, continued the tradition, keeping the lights glowing in his honor. But more than a festive attraction, the Gilley display has always been a celebration of faith, created to share the light and message of Christ during the holiday season. Visiting has always been free, with donations welcomed to help sustain the massive effort each year.

The display earned national recognition when it won the ABC network’s “Light Fight” competition, bringing home a $50,000 prize and shining the spotlight on the small Ball Play community.

While the lights will remain off this year, the warmth and joy that the Gilley family has shared with thousands over the decades will continue to brighten the hearts of all who have made the tradition part of their Christmas memories.