UPDATE: Residents of Poplar Springs Drive in Meridian, Mississippi, are rallying to brighten their neighborhood this holiday season with vibrant Christmas displays. As of November 29, 2025, local homeowners are reminded of the joy and nostalgia of festive lighting, creating a buzz of excitement that has been fading in recent years.
In a bid to revive the holiday spirit, longtime residents like Quinn Carlisle are stepping up to illuminate the streets. “It just seems like it’s gotten darker and darker,” Carlisle lamented, as he prepares to showcase his elaborate yard nativity scene, a tradition he started with his late wife, Mary. Their home, located near Meridian High, is a beacon of holiday cheer that attracts compliments from neighbors and visitors alike.
Another highlight of this festive initiative is the iconic home designed by renowned architect Chris Risher, built in 1950. Long admired for its striking blue lights, this residence is now owned by Nancy VanDevender and her husband Steve Ferguson. “That was one of my great memories, seeing that at Christmastime,” VanDevender shared, as they plan to enhance their display with additional blue flood lights to honor the home’s festive legacy.
The push for holiday decorations comes as many neighborhoods across the country experience a decline in celebratory lighting. Poplar Springs Drive, once a vibrant showcase of lights, has seen a tapering off in recent years. Community members are determined to reverse this trend, sending a clear message: they cherish their community and the traditions tied to it.
These festive displays are not merely decorative; they symbolize pride in their neighborhood and the spirit of togetherness. “We appreciate our neighbors and visitors to Meridian,” Carlisle emphasized. “We can put a little effort into delivering joy.”
As residents prepare for Christmas 2025, the need for revitalization extends beyond holiday lights. Long-term improvements are crucial for maintaining the cultural identity of Poplar Springs. Authorities report a need for increased city code enforcement, enhanced pedestrian safety measures, and the revival of a neighborhood association to foster community engagement.
For now, the focus remains on bringing back the brilliance of Poplar Springs during the holiday season. Residents are encouraged to join the festive efforts and contribute their own light displays. The community’s initiative is about more than aesthetics; it’s about rekindling cherished memories and creating new ones for families and visitors alike.
As the holiday draws closer, Poplar Springs Drive is poised to become a dazzling display of light, warmth, and community spirit. Residents are reminded that every contribution counts in making this season memorable.
Stay tuned for more updates as the neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting everyone to witness the revival of holiday cheer in Meridian.
