DENHAM SPRINGS — If you’re looking for pure Christmas joy wrapped in twinkling lights and topped with a bow of community spirit, Christal and Kevin Davis have just the place: Davis’ Magical Christmas Land, a beloved walk-through winter wonderland that has become a holiday tradition for families across Livingston Parish and beyond.
What started years ago as a simple yard display has transformed into one of the most whimsical, heart-filled Christmas attractions in the region.
“Each year, it just got bigger and bigger,” Davis laughed. “People would stop to take pictures, so about five years ago we said, ‘Let’s make it a walk-through.’ You really can’t appreciate it from the road unless you come in and wander.”
Wander, indeed. The property at 26658 John L. Lane in Denham Springs is lined with lighted pathways guiding visitors through more than 250 inflatables, sparkling tinsel décor, multiple photo ops, and a towering mega tree. But the heart of the display lies in a special place Davis holds dear: Penguin Village.
The area is dedicated to her late daughter, who helped decorate each year and adored penguins.
“She passed away from cancer a couple years ago,” Christal said softly. “Visitors bring penguin ornaments to hang on her tree. It’s become this beautiful tribute. It means the world to us.”
Cookies, Cocoa & Christmas Magic
On special weekends, the scene becomes even more magical with a hot cocoa bar, free cookies, and appearances from Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, and Frosty. Every child receives a free gift from Santa, and families can take unlimited photos with their own phones or cameras—no charge for anything.
“We just ask folks to park across the street and be respectful of the neighborhood,” she added. “You do have to cross the road to get to the display.”
The attraction is free and open nightly beginning the first weekend of December, from 6–9 p.m. on weekdays and 6–10 p.m. on weekends. Santa and friends are expected to visit during the second and third weekends of December.
A Labor of Love—and a Call for Community Help
Setting up the enormous display takes about a month, with Christal and her husband doing nearly all the work themselves.
“It’s usually just us,” she said. “I reached out asking for help this weekend so we can open on time. Volunteers make all the difference.”
They keep the display open through Epiphany (January 6) before beginning the long teardown.
A Christmas Tradition Worth Every Twinkling Light
For the Davis family, the reward is simple: seeing the faces of both the young and the young at heart simply light up.
“It’s magical for us, too,” Davis said. “The smiles, the excitement—it’s why we do it.”
Families can follow their Facebook page for weather updates and special announcements.
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