ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ) – It’s hard to miss the spooky decorations when driving by McVitty Road and Wynne Drive in Roanoke County.
But what you might miss is the 8-year-old who spends all year collecting his money to make it happen.
No one embodies the Halloween spirit quite like 8-year-old Harvey Heffernan.
“This is a hanging mummy I got from the Spirit Store,” he proudly explains, showcasing his decorations.
Harvey began decorating his family’s front yard three years ago, transforming it into a mini-Halloween town that attracts neighbors and drivers alike.
“I guess because they’re scary,” Harvey shares when asked what draws him to the spooky season. “Do you want to scare people with your decorations?” WDBJ7 asked. “Yes!” he replies with a smile.
His impressive display features everything from witches to skeletons and clowns. Every piece of decor has been purchased with his own money earned from birthdays, holidays, and allowances.
“I saved my money up for the witch,” he said. Harvey even started his own venture, Harvey’s Cider and Donuts, to fund his Halloween dreams.
“It’s something he looks forward to every year,” says his dad, John Heffernan. “Literally, July 5, after we’re done watching fireworks, he says, ‘Dad, can we get out the Halloween stuff?’”
While John lends a hand, he knows who the real mastermind is.
“I’m only the assistant. My son is really the director, and he’s the one that puts everything where it belongs. I don’t question anything,” John explained.
Harvey’s passion isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lesson in hard work. He learns how to build props and assemble every spooky piece. His favorite part is when people slow down, take pictures, and claim them as the Halloween house.
So, if you find yourself driving down McVitty Road and Wynne Drive this Halloween, be sure to appreciate Harvey’s work of art, the boy whose love for Halloween shines brighter than any pumpkin in the patch.
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