S'porean man, 65, single-handedly puts up Christmas decor at Woodlands HDB for past 24 years

As Christmas rolls around each year, the carpark entrance at Block 179, Woodlands Street 13, begins to glow with twinkling lights, bright colours and cheerful displays that signal the arrival of the festive season.

Colourful fairy lights are draped from the shelters, while Christmas trees and decorations in red, green and gold line the two sides of the road.

The highlight?

The reindeer centrepieces — which are a favourite among families with young children, many of whom often stop to admire the display or snap photos.

This familiar and much-loved sight, which has become a seasonal highlight for residents, is not the work of a professional team or organisation.

Instead, it is the dedication of one resident whose efforts have quietly transformed the space into a mini festive wonderland for over two decades.

"Wonderland builder"

Since 2001, 65-year-old Tan Khoon Tat has single-handedly designed, created, and put up Christmas decorations each year.

Speaking to Mothership, the retired carpenter shared that his little tradition began simply because he wanted to bring some joy to the Marsiling-Yew Tee neighbourhood during the festive season.

"Over the years, I realised that a simple display could make a difference, especially for families and children returning home in the evenings," he shared.

Seeing the excitement on their faces reminded him that even small efforts can help to create a warmer and more festive atmosphere.

And this is what continues to inspire Tan year after year.

According to Tan, it takes about two weeks to prepare and repair the props, followed by around four days to set up the decorations.

Accustomed to working with his hands from his years as a carpenter, Tan said he enjoys the careful planning and hands-on process, despite the time and effort involved.

Outside of the festive season, the decorations are usually stored in the storeroom at his workshop.

Creating memories for the community and himself

While the displays have created special memories for his fellow residents, they have also brought Tan many meaningful and memorable moments.

He shared that residents who pass by often strike up conversations with him as he is putting up the decorations, and some have even offered him drinks as a gesture of appreciation.

Neighbours have also approached him to thank him and share how the decorations brighten their evenings after a long day of work.

In the beginning, Tan did not plan to put up the decorations this year due to personal reasons, he shared candidly.

However, after giving it some thought, he realised that they had become something residents in the neighbourhood looked forward to.

"I did not want to lose that sense of warmth and togetherness in the community."

Reflecting on this year's set-up, Tan said: "These decorations fill the neighbourhood with so much festive cheer and bring smiles to families and children who come by to take pictures."

"It was worth giving some of the decorations from past years a second lease of life."

Top photos courtesy of Marsiling-Yew Tee Town Council