The Moores just can’t take the elves out of themselves, as the holiday season isn’t the same without the family’s signature Christmas Land.
After a hiatus in 2016, the Saanich family brought back their intricate display that fills their ground floor living room, laundry and bathroom with thousands of miniature, and full sized, figurines and decorations. The walls are wallpapered, the lights are tinseled, and every year Don Moore adds something new.
This year it’s a toy train circling a tower of winter-themed birdhouses.
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It initially started when Moore noticed his son, then a baby, responded to the tree and lights, so Moore kept adding more. That was about 35 years ago and he kept adding until he opened his home to the public about 10 years ago.
“But it’s a lot of work, and I think it’s time to put it away, maybe just until I get grandkids,” Moore said.
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But until then, daycares and others make group visits.
New this year, Moore also added a scavenger hunt.
“We were inspired by a family of four who visited last year and brought their own scavenger hunt, so we created our own for people to do,” Moore said.
Visit this year, because next year will be another hiatus from Christmas Land, said the retired postal worker, and longtime volunteer with National Little League.
Visitors are welcome to leave a donation for the Mustard Seed Food Bank.
Christmas Land is located at 4000 Century Rd., off McKenzie Avenue, and is open on Dec. 15, 16, 22, and 23 from 1 to 4 p.m. Weekday viewings appointments can also be made by emailing coachdon@shaw.ca.
