By Kelly Youngblood
It’s the little things that make Roberta Morris happy at Christmas.
Little, tiny, miniature things.
For a third year in a row, the Urbana resident has shared her passion and collection of over 500 miniatures in a 600 square foot Christmas display at Lincoln Square otherwise known as “Holiday Wonderland.”
Morris said this year has been the busiest so far- more people participating and more visitors stopping by than ever before.
And that makes Morris very happy. “My cheeks are hurting because I’ve been smiling so much,” she said.
Morris credits an increase in media coverage that helped get the word out to people about her display.
“The first year, it was like pulling teeth to get people to come out and see us and now they’re calling us,” Morris said.
For Morris, the more people who come out and participate, the better. “I like seeing people come in and being a part of it. It’s just been great,” she said.
“Holiday Wonderland”, which runs most days through Dec. 24, has some new additions this year including a section highlighting Harley Davidson pieces and a model train display from the Champaign MTD.
The children’s interactive area is also “nicer this year” Morris said, with more decorations and lights. Refreshments are available again and include baked goods as well as ice cream sundaes (while supplies last) from the Sidney Dairy Barn. All proceeds from the food will go to the Prairie Dragon Paddlers, a local breast cancer survivors’ dragon boat team.
There is no cost to see the display but any donations will go towards the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Champaign County.
Morris, an Urbana resident, said she starts setting up in mid-November and works more than 100 hours to complete the display. She also has several volunteers who help her get it ready.
This is the third year Holiday Wonderland has been held at Lincoln Square; however, Morris, a lifelong crafter and Illinois artisan, has been adorning houses and area businesses with her Christmas village displays since 1990.
A member of the Illinois Artisans Program, Morris has always been adept at making fine crafts. For many years, she made various pieces carved out of apples and sold them at the Apple and Pork Festival in Clinton.
“Holiday Wonderland” runs most days through Dec. 24. For a complete schedule this Christmas season, go here.