CLEVELAND – We’re just days away from Halloween.
Yet, one neighborhood is already in the spirit of things, with a sight many say you have to see to believe.
“When I first seen it, I didn’t think it was going to be that big,” said Athena Lemieux of Cleveland. “I mean, it’s kind of neat, it’s kind of a nice thing for the community.”
Hundreds of people are flocking to Wichita Avenue to see a larger-than-life display of the Transformers.
“I think they’re awesome,” said neighbor Joel Johnson. “It’s so crazy because there’ll be cars blocked up on the street. Kids really love them.”
It all started in 2008, when Pete Marin wanted to make a special gift for his son. Pete crafted the 12-foot yellow Bumblebee over a few months, said Sarah Martinez, Pete’s girlfriend.
“I’ve met many creative people throughout my life, and I’ve never met someone who could turn wood and foam into something this great,” Martinez said.
Marin continued to build nearly every year after, constructing Optimus Prime; Megatron, which sits on top of his roof; and this year, Barricade.
“At first, he told me we’re going to have people here all times at night,” Martinez said. “We hear them at 4 or 5 o’clock in the morning.”
The noise and curiosity doesn’t seem to bother the family or their neighbors, who’ve come to admire Marin’s handiwork. But next year, Marin has an even bigger vision.
“Now, his plan for next year is going to be twice as challenging because he’s coming out with two next year,” Martinez said.
“It’s worth it,” she continues. “Just the expression on their faces and the praise. Like the flyer says, it’s Pete’s way of giving back to the community. He was raised here in Cleveland and he’s very proud of Cleveland.”
The Transformers Halloween Display is located at 4807 Wichita Avenue in Cleveland. It features lights and music and is on display every evening from dusk until 10 o’clock.
For more information, click here to see The Transformers Halloween Display Facebook page.