I picked this up in 2011 to begin my LEGO Christmas/Winter Village Collection.

Box/Instructions

The set comes in a standard cardboard box that all LEGO sets come in and like many of these specialty sets, there usually isn't a set name or theme, just the Item Number.

The instructions are also printed in booklet form with clear, easy to follow illustrated step by step instructions.

Parts

At 687 pieces, the set is valued at $54.99 which is very good. Especially considering the horse figure, the uncommon tree pieces and rare owl that frequently can be a consideration to how a set is priced. Even the special lighted brick piece can cause set's price to go up.

Minifigures

There are 7 & 1/2 minifigures in all for this set. I say half as many who no doubt have pointed out before that you have the lower legs for someone that's fallen into a snowbank. There's a baker, shop patron, two skaters, boy with an apple, wagon driver and the worker for the Christmas Tree Stand.

The build and completed model

The build I think is fairly standard and somewhat innovative. The Baker's shop is very well detailed and the roof design is something I had come up with independently too on my own (with the hinge pieces), so I was pleasantly surprised to see it here.
You also have an ice rink nearby with a bench, trees, lights and couple of skaters.
Other minibuilds that are part of this set is a wagon pulled by a horse with a tree being carried. And a Christmas Tree Sales Stand.

Summary

For me, this makes a perfect start to hopefully getting the other Winter Village themed sets that are out and to come in future years. I know there's a "Christmas Village 52" or something like that that can be bought in stores every year. I know that line of collectibles is huge and there's lots of stuff to get for it. Personally I'd rather start on this for a Winter Village collection as it appeals to my love of LEGO. And at the price the sets seem to be going for and all the details, they seem they will be very much so worth it.