CLEARWATER, Fla. — As the lights come into focus and the model train rounds the bend, you're transported into a Christmas wonderland.

However, what truly makes this year round Christmas store special is the people who work here.

Take general manager Dennis Wilkinson, who has worked at Robert's Christmas Wonderland for the past 47 years. That's quite a feat considering they've been up and running for 50 years. 

“It's been here a long, long time, and Robert's Christmas Wonderland has such a legacy," Dennis said. "You know, we all know the true meaning of Christmas, but the other meaning is family. I've been here so long that I've watched families come here through the years and now they are bringing their own children and it brings such a smile to your face.”

He has spent decades inside the massive Christmas store helping clients and newcomers alike find the perfect decorations to celebrate this festive time of year. In fact, the store boasts a Christmas tree room that has thousands of lights strung from the ceiling, giving you the effect that you're walking through a forest at night with the starry sky above. 

The store itself first opened in the early 1970's and was only open seasonally, but eventually in the 1990's merged with another store in Clearwater. They opened year round to create a Christmas Wonderland that locals and out-of-towners could enjoy any time of year. 

And for those who have worked at this special spot for decades, like Dennis, it's a place that helps bring the Christmas spirit alive and keep it alive for a new generation to come. 

“My gosh how can you not love Christmas?" Dennis said. "To work in it and celebrate it year round, I mean how many people do you know that have been in their job 47 years? It's just a joy to be here and to work in this incredible place.”

Robert's Christmas Wonderland is open seven days a week, but their hours vary so be sure to head to their website, https://www.robertscw.com/