THE BAY’S LARGEST CHRISTMAS MARKET RETURNS TO THE BOARDWALK

One of Nelson Mandela Bay’s festive season staples, Christmas in the Home, returns to The Boardwalk Convention Centre on 1 December 2016. The ever-popular seasonal market kicks off the holiday calendar with four days of the finest locally produced crafts, foods and musical entertainment.

Last year, the 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 gifts and crafts. Adding to the festive atmosphere will be a daily line-up of choirs and live music. According to coordinator Elsje Smuts of Trueblue Communication and Events, which organises the expo annually, visitors can look forward to an expanded food section, as well as craft beer tasting.

“This year we have a dedicated food court area, with lots of seating, so people can rest and refuel before carrying on with some serious Christmas shopping. 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,” says Smuts.

The Eastern Cape Junior Children’s Choir take 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 melodic close on the Sunday.

Smuts also encourages 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 09h00 daily and will trade until 18h00 on Thursday and Saturday, until 20h00 on Friday and until 14h00 on 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.

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