What began as a tiny Christmas village to celebrate the season for Charlene McIntosh has turned into a major, lighted miniature metropolis that takes up half her living room.
Comprised of nearly 1,500 pieces (and growing each year) of flashing, twirling, skating and other types of moving objects, the village now sits on an enlarged, three-tiered stand.
Again this year, one day later this month, McIntosh will open the doors of her home at 2585 Dartmouth Dr. to the public so all can enjoy the 36 hours she her family, including daughter Amanda and niece Drew put into the labour of love.
“It took seven hours to unpack and I’m thinking I’ve lost my mind and then I’m looking at everything as it comes together and I remember why I do it,” said McIntosh. “Why do I do it? It’s my gift back to the community, for me it’s all about the spirit of Christmas, it has noting to do with gifts but if I can bring a smile to someone’s face or make one person feel good, especially in this world at this time of the year that’s all I can hope for that’s why I do it.
“It’s a lot of work and I don’t do it for myself I love to see the reaction of people when they walk up and see the village because most people and I hear them when they say ‘oh I’ve seen a village before’ and then they turn the corner…”
The whole concept for McIntosh began over two decades ago while she was living in the Lower Mainland.
Initially the display was just for family and friends however after the story first appeared in thePenticton Western News she received so many calls it was decided to let people in which has happened every year since then.
People who visit during the open house Dec. 19 from 3 to 7 p.m., are not required to make a donation, but if possible, is greatly appreciated.
Money raised goes to Fraternal Order of Eagles #4281 women’s charities.