The Touching Story Behind A Texas Couple's Massive Christmas Lights Display

December 11, 2024

For over a decade, Mark Cornetti and Nasheel Joules of McKinney, Texas, have transformed their home into a dazzling Christmas wonderland.

With more than 74 inflatables and over a million twinkling lights, their festive display has become a beloved destination for holiday visitors, drawing crowds from miles away.

McKinney couple Christmas lights
Credit: Fox 4 News

The tradition, however, was born out of an unexpected challenge. Nasheel Joules, once an avid fan of driving around to admire Christmas lights, was diagnosed with CAPS, a rare autoinflammatory disease, and stage 3 heart failure. Her condition, triggered by cold weather, made it difficult to enjoy outdoor festivities. Instead of giving up on the holiday spirit, the couple decided to bring the magic of Christmas to their own doorstep.

"We just buy a few more things each year," Joules shared with Fox 4 News. "We love looking at Christmas lights." But over time, their festive display became about more than just their love for the season.

"When we saw what it does for people that come and see it—the smiles, the laughter—it really became more about doing it for them and not doing it for us so much," she said.

In addition to the dazzling lights and decorations, the couple offers a personal touch of compassion. They leave a box outside for prayer requests and share a link for visitors to donate to the American Heart Association, blending holiday cheer with a message of hope and giving back.

Mark and Nasheel’s incredible display is more than a sight to behold; it’s a testament to resilience, love, and the true spirit of Christmas—bringing joy to others in the face of life’s challenges.

Meet the couple in the video below!