CULLMAN, Ala. – For creative minds Heidi and Rick Milliken, Halloween is more than just a night of trick-or-treating; it’s a full-scale project that transforms their yard into an immersive world.
They began their incredible displays in 2021 after being inspired by their neighbors, whose yard decorations have become a popular stop for trick-or-treaters and have even brought traffic to a halt.
“I remember thinking, when my kids got older and stopped trick-or-treating, that I’d start decorating our yard, too. It started as a joke competition, but it became a creative outlet for me as an artist,” said Heidi Milliken.
Since then, the Millikens’ Halloween setups have become a neighborhood tradition, growing larger and more detailed each year. Past displays have ranged in theme from “Pirates of the Caribbean” to “Beetlejuice,” but this year’s is inspired by the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things.” With about 25 volunteers assisting in the creation this year, guests can experience scenes like Scoop’s Ahoy, Castle Byers, the Wheelers’ basement and the Byers’ living room. There will even be an arcade with old-school games where Mad Max’s high score on Dig Dug will win prizes.
The display will also feature photo ops, giveaways and a gift basket sponsored by Sky is the Limit and Core Creations. Visitors who tag the display and sponsors on social media will be entered to win.
For families wondering about age appropriateness, Milliken said the display is “all ages” up front, but the walkthrough area in the yard “gets a little scarier and probably best for ages 10 and up.”
Milliken said the community’s excitement keeps them motivated each year.
“Sometimes I’ll wonder if it’s worth all the months of work,” she said, “but then I’ll hear from kids who can’t wait to see it, and that just keeps us going.”
Be sure to visit the Millikens this Halloween at 1615 Woodland St. NW in Cullman.
