New Zealand (Commonwealth)_
The upcoming Bizlink Hāwera Christmas Parade, scheduled for Saturday, December 9, promises a day filled with festive joy and amusement, according to coordinator Nikki Watson. Embracing a theme of “fun and frivolity,” the parade is set to feature businesses embracing a light-hearted and entertaining spirit, with an emphasis on creating a delightful atmosphere suitable for a children’s event.
Scheduled to commence at noon, the parade will be preceded by a morning street festival, amplifying the day’s celebratory atmosphere. The festivities will include live performances by musicians Jasmine Jones and Wilbur Raikes, along with enchanting appearances by fairy and pirate characters courtesy of Be Magical. Additional attractions on Campbell Lane will include face-painting and hair-braiding activities.
The area surrounding T & H Betta Electrical will cater to younger attendees with an array of kids’ rides, featuring mini-jeeps, bouncy castles, and the popular Tinka the Train for delightful train rides. As children engage in various activities, parents can seize the opportunity to engage in some Christmas shopping, with numerous stallholders lining the streets. This provides a convenient opportunity for last-minute gift purchases while eagerly anticipating the approaching parade. A beloved tradition, the elf hunt is making a return this year. Participating local businesses will adorn their shop windows with festive decorations, concealing toy elves within the displays. Children are invited to embark on the hunt, finding these elusive elves and completing a form to enter a prize draw. Forms can be obtained from Te W’anake The Foundry or participating businesses, adding an interactive and engaging element to the pre-parade activities.
For those interested in participating in the Christmas parade, registrations are still open, and interested parties are encouraged to directly contact Nikki Watson. Notably, the organizing committee requests that no individual or group portrays Santa on their float, as Bizlink Hāwera has a designated sleigh ready for Santa’s arrival.
To facilitate the smooth execution of the event, High Street will be closed from 9 am until the conclusion of the parade. Ample parking spaces are available in the vicinity, and attendees are kindly urged to refrain from parking on the main street to ensure unobstructed festivities.
