THE BAY’S LARGEST CHRISTMAS MARKET RETURNS

One of Nelson Mandela Bay’s festive season staples, Christmas in the Home, returns to The Boardwalk Convention Centre on December 1 with a new line-up of stalls, entertainment and educational talks.

Last year, the four-day event attracted over 10 000 market-goers and is once again set to draw locals and visitors alike with its offering of 150 stalls selling the finest handmade gifts and crafts.

According to coordinator Elsje Smuts of Trueblue Communication and Events, this year’s visitors can also look forward to an expanded food section.

“We now have a dedicated food court area, with lots of seating, so people can take a break and refuel before carrying on with some serious Christmas shopping,” said Smuts.

Adding to the festive atmosphere will be a daily line-up of choirs and live music.

“For us, Christmas in the Home is all about showcasing the Bay’s best creative talent, whether it be in the form of handmade goods, artisanal food or musical abilities,” she said.

The Eastern Cape Junior Children’s Choir takes to the stage on the opening day, followed by the Summerwood Primary Wind Band on the Friday and local muso Charl Francis later that evening. On the Saturday, it is the turn of Charlo Primary School and Arbitrio Male Choir, while Lilian Zeelie and Hanlie Young bring proceedings to a melodious close on the Sunday.

Another highlight of this year’s event will be a series of festive-themed educational talks by experts in their various fields, said Smuts.

“First up, we have our gardening expert Kay, better known as Call Kay, who will share her thoughts on Christmas gardening and what looks best this time of year in the Eastern Cape.

“We are also happy to have Sue Hoffman, who will demonstrate her ideas for unique Christmas table décor using recycled materials and indigenous flowers and plants.”

Then it is the turn of Koekedoor television bake-off contestant Wilandi Esterhuysen, who will show how to make easy holiday snacks and a Sweetie Pie with a Christmas touch.

Rounding out the festivities will be Jonathan Roche of Benn Koppen, who will share his expertise on craft beer as a seasonal tipple.

Smuts also encouraged market-goers to visit and support the sponsored stands hosted by Isithembiso Babies’ Home and Northwood Children’s Hospice.

“These organisations do incredibly important work among the children of our city, so it’s important to give back and make their Christmas a little more cheerful.”

For shopping convenience, Christmas in the Home opens at 9am daily and will trade until 6pm on the Thursday and Saturday, till 8pm on the Friday and until 2pm on the Sunday.

Entry costs R20 per person and is free of charge for children younger than 12 years.

For more information, contact Elsje on 082 873 7663 or elsje@truebluecommunication.co.za, or find Christmas in the Home on Facebook.