Do you love the twinkling lights and festive vibe of Christmas? Or are you feeling more in the bah-humbug spirit this year? Either way, you won’t want to miss making a trip to Ken Karsk’s home.
It’s a tradition in Vail.
Every year, Ken dresses up the outside of his house with holiday décor. He love the glitz, lights, and festive spirit, but he also does it as a way to give back to the community that has served him so well.
Ken Karsk’s Back Story
Ken’s story is one of hope.
Before moving to Vail he survived the destruction of the ‘89 San Francisco earthquake. 6 years later he lost his family’s Sedona home to a flood. Once in Vail, he lost his $500,000 retirement savings in a fraud case that was never resolved. For the past few decades, Ken has been up against serious hardship. Every time things seem to take a positive turn, something else goes wrong.
Two years ago, he decided to let go of all of the legal disputes over the alleged fraud that stole his retirement savings. He instead turned his focus and energy toward rebuilding.
He needed work so he reached out to The Vail Voice for help. With the generosity of the paper’s editor Lucretia Free, Ken was able to advertise his cleaning services. Soon, he had enough work to earn a steady income and save his house from foreclosure.
Saying Thanks to the Vail Community
Now, he’s showing his gratitude for our community’s generosity with decorations that spread Holiday happiness. Some of the decorations on tap this year include a life-size Santa clinging to the peak of the roof, an animated Rudolph helping Santa, Vegas show lights, 25 reindeer, over 100 luminarias, a holiday scene, and a 30-foot Christmas tree.
You’re encouraged to get out of your car and take pictures.
The holiday display is more than a fun attraction. It’s also a way to bring in donations to help IMPACT of Southern Arizona.
Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food, blankets, clothes, socks, and other items to help those in need in our area. Representatives from IMPACT of Southern Arizona will be on hand to collect the donations in giant wrapped boxes under Ken’s larger-than-life Christmas tree.
Bring your donation and check out this holiday treasure at 10055 S. Big Thunder Drive.
The display is lit from December 1 – December 31 on weekdays from dusk until 10 p.m. and weekends from dusk until midnight.
