PALM COAST, Fla. – What started as a friendly rivalry between neighbors has grown into a holiday tradition that now spreads joy far beyond one Palm Coast neighborhood — proving that sometimes the brightest gifts come wrapped in lights.

In 2018, Joe and Julie Marthey welcomed new neighbors next door. That Christmas, the newcomers unveiled an elaborate Light-O-Rama display, while Joe stuck with his traditional 200 C9 bulbs hanging from the gutters.

“Upon driving home one night and noticing the huge difference in our displays, I decided enough was enough,” Joe laughed. “It was ‘Game On,’ and there was no way I was going to lose this battle.”

By November 2019, Joe dove headfirst into researching synchronized Christmas light displays — the same pixel technology used in major sports arenas — and began transforming his home into what is now affectionately known as Ho Ho Joe’s.

“When new neighbors move in next door to Ho Ho Joe’s, we introduce ourselves in a little bit of an unusual way,” Joe said with a chuckle.

What began as friendly competition quickly became something much bigger. Each year, visitors are invited to enjoy the musical light show — and to give back. Donations collected through the display go directly to local charities. In 2022 alone, the Martheys donated more than $8,000 to Toys for Tots.

From glowing arches to dancing pixels and the beloved Santa Shack, the display has become a must-see attraction for families throughout the community.

“From that point forward, my addiction to this hobby has created smiles on the faces of kids from the ages of 7 to 70,” Joe said. “And we look forward to making this one of the best holiday displays you’ve ever seen.”

Joe is often asked why he pours so much time, energy, and money into the display.

“I get asked a lot, ‘Why do you do this crazy display?’” he said. “And while the reason I started it was a friendly competition with a new next-door neighbor, what keeps me going isn’t recognition, winning awards, or any of the other answers you’d expect. This right here is the reason.”

That reason became especially clear this Christmas, when the Martheys were able to help a local family in need.

“My wife’s close friend actually did the shopping this year since she knew the family we were donating to,” Joe said. “I’m not good at shopping for Christmas — I stick to my forte, holiday lighting and cheer.”

One of the recipients, Jessica, shared just how much the kindness meant.

“My name is Jessica. I am one of the moms you helped create a Christmas miracle for this year,” she said. “I have five children of my own and just unexpectedly took in four extra kids two days before Christmas.”

Already stretched thin, Jessica had finished shopping for her family and had no funds — or time — to buy gifts for the additional children while working 13-hour shifts both days leading up to Christmas.

“You guys immediately took on the impossible task and made it happen for these kids,” she said. “They were so excited and kept saying they’ve never seen a tree so full before.”

While the gifts were meant for the children, Jessica said the impact went much deeper.

“This was 100% for the kids, but honestly, seeing the joy in their little faces during such a difficult time was the greatest gift I’ve ever received,” she said. “Your generosity and selfless love has blessed all in more ways than you will ever know.”

She added, “Thank you for keeping the Christmas spirit alive not only for the children, but for us overwhelmed and stressed-out adults too. Merry Christmas from my (now extended) family to yours.”

For Joe, reading those words was a moment of reflection.

“I admit it,” he said. “This was a little difficult to read without tearing up a little.”

From a playful neighborhood rivalry to a beacon of holiday hope, Ho Ho Joe’s proves that when neighbors help neighbors — sometimes all it takes is a little light to change everything.

Visit www.hohojoes.com for a look at past year’s displays including Halloween.

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