In a tradition that spans half a decade, the Christmas lights display at 101 Rialto Street in Renmark West is growing in size and popularity as each year passes.
Paul Tassios and his daughters Anja and Lexie have been bringing joy to the Riverland for half a decade through their breathtaking curation of 67,000 Christmas lights around their property.
Like many others who partake in the festive custom, it started with a few simple decorations and grew from there.
"You put up one row of lights of about 200 … and you say, 'oh yeah that's for Christmas'," Mr Tassios said.
As Riverland residents come to explore the visual delights, subtle nods to the region can be spotted.
A rustic nativity scene crafted by Mr Tassios from wooden apricot trays, and an old picking machine used to reach the treetops and roof of the house.
A labour of love
It is a physically demanding task that takes time to complete.
"Nearly three months."
Anja and Lexie, the "Christmas elves" of the operation, have grown up watching their front yard transform into a warm and welcoming wonderland each summer.
"There is always that little bit in your brain throughout the whole year that is excited just to look outside and see the lights and see the people," Anja said.
"To see all the Christmas decorations up is just the best thing and we are always excited to see it happen."
'The spirit of Christmas'
Mr Tassios has become well-known in the region, not only for his dazzling display of lights but for his homemade honey crackles handed out to each visitor for a dollar coin donation.
Every year, the family raises money for a cause that is close to their hearts.
Another year, after a family friend passed away from breast cancer, the Tassios family raised money in her honour, and gave the bright shining star at the top of the house her name.
This year, donations are going towards children's cancer.
"A good friend of mine lost his daughter earlier this year to cancer, and so I thought I'd do it in honour of her," he said.
As Mr Tassios explained, the very core of what they do is about bringing joy to the Riverland community.
"If we can put people's worries away while they're here and they actually enjoy the spirit of Christmas … enjoy the lights, and feel really peaceful, that's what we're doing it for."
