KLOOF resident Margaret Stoop McAvoy has always had a soft spot for Christmas – not just the tinsel and twinkling lights, but the feeling of joy, warmth, and togetherness that the season brings.

Growing up in a family that went all out for the festive season, she said her love for Christmas was never a phase – it was a legacy.

That legacy shines brightest every year at her home in Bellville Road where a childhood adoration for Christmas and all its festivities first sparked a tradition that has since become a beacon of cheer in the Upper Highway.

McAvoy said she wanted her home to look like the kind of place you’d see in a festive film, the sort of house that makes kids gasp and adults smile without even realising it.

Also read: A little giving could change a child’s Christmas

“My goal was never just about the lights and decor, though, it was about sharing in the Christmas cheer and giving everyone, but especially those who might not experience it anywhere else, a little bit of Christmas magic during the ‘happiest season’.”

In achieving her goal, she wrapped the roof, the walls, the garden, and just about anything that would stand still, in lights and festive characters.

“The display has grown too – more lights, more characters, bigger inflatables, and even a Santa’s Postbox where local little ones can post their letters and receive a magical email response.”

McAvoy said she got inspiration from her friends, the Burtons, another family in the Upper Highway known for doing Christmas in a big way, she committed to levelling up her display year after year.

Also read: WATCH: Let there be light – family lights up community

“Each season becomes brighter, bolder, and more joyfully over the top, and the community loves it,” she said.

With her work in marketing and her role as the owner of See Upper Highway, McAvoy spends her days fully plugged into the pulse of the community.

“Years ago, I noticed that other homes and businesses across the Upper Highway were also putting up lights and inviting residents to come and enjoy them. Instead of leaving people to scroll endlessly through Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats, I, along with my awesome team at See Upper Highway, decided to bring it all together.”

With permission from each home or business, she and her team create and maintain the See Upper Highway Christmas Lights Route – a single, easy-to-follow list of festive stops.

“We start putting feelers out and compiling the first draft of the list in October, and make sure to update and share the route throughout the season whenever there’s news or additions.

“It began as a small community gesture and has now been running for about five years, growing annually as more households ask to be included and more families eagerly await its release.

“Today, it has become a beloved Upper Highway tradition, helping locals and visitors alike plan their festive drives and discover new pockets of Christmas magic,” she said.

Follow the adventure

It’s that magical time of year when the Upper Highway comes alive with twinkling lights, festive displays, and all the Christmas cheer, and if you are planning an evening drive with the family or a little holiday adventure with the children, below  is a brilliant way to soak in the festive spirit right here at home.

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