You may have heard of the wonderfully creative and generous Woodlands resident who’s been decking out his neighborhood in festive garb for over a decade — and this year is no different. No matter the celebration — Chinese New Year, Deepavali, or Hari Raya Aidilfitri — he never passes up an opportunity to beautify his estate.
So this year, Tan Koon Tat constructed an elaborate log cabin blanketed by a layer of “snow”, surrounded by Christmas trees, Santa, reindeer, and candy canes, on a grassy patch by Block 178 Woodlands Street 13. According to The Straits Times, the 58-year-old carpenter built it in three weeks with materials he got from lumber yards and help from family, friends, and a couple workers.
Every year, his community gives him ideas and suggestions on the design, but this year’s creation was inspired by a photograph from his son. Channel NewsAsia reported that his work was self-funded, with electricity supplied by the town council this year. And residents who live around the area have been enjoying this little dash of Christmas magic, especially with the snow machine that Tan whipped out on Christmas Eve and Day.
So if Gardens by the Bay’s Christmas Wonderland is a little too overrated (or crowded) for you, perhaps this little nook of Woodlands will give you the festive, neighborly cheer you’re looking for. ST said that there’ll be more “snow” times to look forward to this weekend and on New Year’s Eve.
