The first annual Somerset West Christmas Market, a family-friendly, community-focused event, will be hosted over three weekends in December, at the Generation School grounds in Somerset West.
Visitors of all ages, will enter the market through a fairy-light tunnel and be greeted by a courtyard filled with festive lights, a beer garden, food court, and gift vendors, live music festive cheer brought by a 2meter tall authentic German Christmas Tree.
Organisers say the market is aimed at promoting local tourism and support local vendors, whilst give the community a safe and lively setting to have fun and do their Christmas gift shopping.
“The event is all about community upliftment, and we hope to bring the old tradition of the “Strawberry Market or Turning on of the Lights” back to Somerset West, with the help of local businesses and community leaders,” says Moira Meershoek, one of the event organisers.
The indoor gift market will host dozens of vendors, bringing together local artisans, craftsmen, and retailers offering a wide array of gifts, handmade crafts, artisanal food items, and unique decorations.
For children there will be Santa’s House and Postbox and an access-controlled kids drop-off zone run by local business, Mess Makers, where parents can leave the children in the care of the team, where they will play games, do interactive workshops and participate in specialised messy play.
Ward 84 Councillor Norman McFarlane will speak at the opening ceremony, as well as representatives from The Village Collective, The Barking Ark charity, and local church leaders from within the Somerset West area.
Councillor McFarlane will be entrusted with the joyous task of delivering the opening address when the Christmas Tree and lights are switched on.
He invited people to come out and join in the fun and festivities that the market will offer. “I think this market is long overdue and the organisers have put a great deal of effort into it, so I’m sure it will be well-attended.”
The community Christmas Market, says will inject a note of excitement and joy into the community, bringing with it a Christmas spirit; exactly what is needed after a long, stressful and dull year.
“So, I want to invite the community to come out and enjoy all the market has to offer, let’s all come together as a community and as families to come and share in the spirit and cheer of Christmas and enjoy ourselves at this event all in aid of community upliftment,” he said.
“What makes this market such a wonderful initiative and an important boost to local economic development is that people can come out and share in the community festive joy and spend quality family time, while at the same time supporting local vendors and businesses,” Councillor McFarlane said.
Market opening dates are on Friday December 6 and Saturday December 7, Friday December 13, and Saturday December 14, and Friday December 20 and Saturday December. Opening hours are from 4pm to 10pm and entry is R30 per person, while children under-5 enter free.
Contact Moira Meershoek on 083 415 0894 or at moira@happysak.co.za for more information.
