PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — What began as a father's effort to help his son enjoy Halloween has grown into a 12-year family tradition for Prestonsburg resident Matt Lafferty.

This year's creation is a massive purple-and-silver locomotive inspired by Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train," complete with a skull on the front, oversized wheels and rock-themed artwork.

Lafferty began construction around August 1, spending nearly three months bringing the project to life. His biggest challenge wasn't the design or construction, but getting everything finished in time.

"I literally had it ready 30 minutes before Halloween," Lafferty said.

The tradition began more than a decade ago when Lafferty started building Halloween displays to help his middle son, who is autistic, feel more comfortable participating in the holiday. Although his son has since become comfortable with crowds, the family has continued the tradition.

Previous creations have included a 14-foot Ghostbusters trap, a UFO, an F-14 fighter jet, Optimus Prime and a wrestling ring.

Lafferty says his boys don't typically request specific themes, so he bases each year's creation on things he knows they enjoy.

"Their first reaction was the biggest wow face you could imagine," he said.

But the projects have become about more than just Halloween night.

"My inspiration is knowing that these builds will bring joy and amazement to both kids and adults," Lafferty said.

He also hopes the creations bring recognition to his small hometown and give residents something to be proud of.

For Lafferty, the most rewarding moment came Halloween night when he pulled the train through town and watched his sons and others enjoy his latest creation.

"Seeing my boys and others enjoy it so much and seeing their faces and reactions make it all worth it," he said.

To see more pictures you can click the link here.

Pictures courtesy of Matt Lafferty.