It’s been a highlight on the festive season calendar since its launch in 2001, and this year is no different. This weekend will be the first open day of the annual Arthur’s Christmas Wonderland.
For those who have never visited the Wonderland, here’s how it works:
Arthur Muller and Darrelle Lee-Muller have thousands of Christmas decorations they’ve accumulated over the years, and each year they decorate their home from top to bottom, alternating decorations to give Wonderland visitors something different to look forward to.
Many of the decorations are one-of-a-kind, come from various other countries or have been hand-crafted or hand-painted by Arthur and Darrelle.
Entry to view the Wonderland is R20, and proceeds are donated to a charity. This year’s beneficiary is Aurora Special Care Centre.
PE Express asked Arthur a few questions to catch up and get more information about Wonderland and what can be expected this year…
What was your inspiration for starting Arthur’s Christmas Wonderland?
My father was a huge Christmas fanatic, hence the inspiration from an early age. Family and friends always got together at my parents’ home.
What made you choose Aurora Special Care Centre as this year’s beneficiary?
The year 2024 was a tumultuous year, health-wise. After being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, I was eventually discharged from hospital to Aurora Rehabilitation Hospital (Gqeberha).
GBS (Guillain-Barré syndrome) is a very rare neurological condition. As Aurora Rehabilitation Hospital changed my condition to a manageable one, this is to acknowledge their rare compassion and incredible Physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist (OT) teams.
What is this year’s signature tree?
New Beginnings, stylishly decorated in beautiful Christmas flowers, etc.
Describe your favourite of all your decorations?
Our international Christmas garland, which spectacularly displays our special collection of Christmas treasures, from our travelling and from dear friends.
Can you give us a hint about what else there will be to see at this year’s Wonderland?
This year, due to my current recovery, it is on a slightly smaller scale, but with many little projects that I am so proud of, considering my limitations.
What are you most looking forward to this festive season?
To be with our loved ones, who also celebrate our reason for life and gratitude.
Is there a message you’d like to send to our readers?
Always remember to appreciate what you have and acknowledge how privileged we are to have a Saviour.
Please consider donating to Aurora Special Care Centre. The underprivileged would enormously appreciate your assistance, as this is an NPO, they too deserve a quality of life.
Arthur sends his thank yous
To Blessing, my carer, and Yolande Geel, without your hard work and support, this would have been almost impossible.
Thank you, PE Express, for all your loyal support for Arthur’s Christmas Wonderland.
Last, but not least, I want to thank my spouse, Darrelle Lee-Muller, for all your support, encouragement and love during my 7.5 months in hospital, and for my recovery thus far. I’m saying thank you, with tears running down my cheeks; you are my all.
Don’t miss the chance to see Arthur Muller’s Christmas decorations at 2 Esau Meyer Street in Salisbury Park. Arthur’s Christmas Wonderland will be open on 6 December and 13 December from 14:00 to 17:00.
Entry is R20, in aid of Aurora Special Care Centre.
When coming down Buffelsfontein Road, turn right into 28th Avenue by Mount Pleasant Superspar, then take the second street into Esau Meyer Street.
For more information, contact Arthur at 082 565 4216 or visit Arthur’s Christmas Wonderland on Facebook and Instagram.
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