Riitta’s Christmas wonderland takes over the terrace: “The oldest elves date back 30 years”

Previously, the elves were scattered all over the house during Christmas as decorations. My adult daughters suggested we not spread them everywhere. Six years ago, I created a small display on the terrace table for the first time, so the figurines wouldn’t be in anyone’s way. A friend saw the display and said, “This is like a Christmas elf wonderland!”

Over time, the display has grown. At first, I only needed a few side tables, and now the wonderland takes up the entire outdoor terrace. I set it up in mid-November.

Sometimes, small children visiting the household move the elves around their tiny village. Riitta hasn’t forbidden anyone from touching the setup. The elves can always be put back.

I use figures I’ve collected over the decades. The oldest piece in the display is a Santa candle that my spouse and I had in our first home more than 40 years ago. The oldest elves are over 30 years old—my daughters made them in kindergarten.

I create the display on a small budget. I don’t aim for a perfectly uniform Christmas village; I mix a variety of items. If I find a cute bird feeder or a candle lantern, it might become a house. My husband handles the lighting. He has also made small pieces with a 3D printer, like reindeer, houses, a bridge, and a moon. My daughters have helped, too; one even crafted tiny letters for the elves’ post office.

The elves are always busy. They cook, climb ladders, fish, and go sledding. There’s always a long line for the outhouse.

I’m not just charmed by elves; I’m drawn to Christmas in general. Even though my children are grown, I still love putting the house in a festive mood. Being retired also means I have more time. In my working life, I did shift work and was often on evening or night shifts over Christmas, so there were few holidays I could spend with my family.

Since the display isn’t in our way, it can stay out well into spring. When the February sun appears, I start thinking about taking it down. By Easter, the elves are definitely tucked away.