Columbus Country Christmas began as a simple idea from our father, Marcus Taulman. For years, Dad collected Christmas decorations—every birthday, Father’s Day, and Christmas, he would ask us kids to get him more. Since his older brother would beautifully decorate his home every Christmastime, we always assumed that once Dad retired, he would do the same.

 

Dad started the project himself, with the help of his son and grandson (then 15 and 17 years old). He had them clear wooded areas on the property, never revealing why—just letting them enjoy the work and time together. Meanwhile, he hired a team from Cincinnati to install road lights and decorate the barns. None of us knew what he was up to. The cornfield did a great job of hiding everything, even the trucks hauling in gravel!

 

When the time was right, Dad took each of us, one by one, down the path he had created. It was a huge surprise—pure magic. I remember thinking, This is amazing. My dad is Santa Claus. I was overwhelmed with awe and pride. I’ve always been proud of him, but this was something truly special, something we all needed.

 

Once the secret was out, the real work began. Over the next several weeks, we wrapped trees, set up displays—Dad’s “presents” collected over the years—and transformed the space into something incredible. It took all of us: my parents, their six kids, our spouses, and even the grandchildren who were old enough to help. It was a massive undertaking, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything. The memories we’ve made together will be treasured forever.

 

In 2020, Columbus Country Christmas officially opened to the public for the first time.

 

When asked why he did this, Dad gives many reasons. But what I’ve heard most is that he simply wanted to bring joy—both to his family and the community. He believed that after a difficult year, people needed hope. He wanted to remind everyone of the simple, magical Christmases of his childhood, to spark cherished memories, and to create a place where families could start new traditions together. And when he saw little kids, with what he called “faces the size of a grapefruit,” light up with excitement, he knew he had achieved just that. Families have since fallen in love with the magic of a family farm filled with Christmas cheer.

 

Dad did all of this without funding, donations, or sponsors. We aren’t backed by an organization, a state, or a city—just one man, a dream, and his family, coming together to bring joy and hope to others.

 

Each year, we continue to improve and expand the show, making Columbus Country Christmas a beloved holiday tradition for everyone. It’s a place where new memories are made, and we’re proud to be part of so many families’ holiday celebrations.