JEFFREYS BAY – Twinkling festive lights, angels, wrapped gifts, snowmen, Santa’s reindeers, and sleigh . . . and a whole lot of adrenaline-filled action and entertainment – all jam-packed into a not-to-be-missed line-up.
Residents and visitors alike are in for a feast of fun this December as Jeffreys Bay Tourism, in conjunction with Kouga Municipality, is set to kick-off the first-ever JBay Summer Fun event on Friday, 15 December.
The festivities – ranging from Christmas carols to various competitions, as well as a fun run and live music – are set to end with a bang on Sunday, 31 December 2023 with a fireworks display, ensuring that the magic of the season is shared by all.
“This year’s programme of fun is a testament to our commitment to creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere, while promoting local economic development,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman.
Opening of the Season
Jeffreys Bay’s own Santa Clause will kick-start the festivities with a roaring appearance on his Harley Davidson at the Main Beach on Friday, 15 December 2023 at 17:30 – offering children the opportunity to take a photo with him.
From 18:00 to 20:00, Oasis FM will host an inspiring Christmas Concert, featuring various local artists, at the Main Beach. This is a free entry event.
This will be followed by the official switching-on of lights by Bornman at 20:00.
“As we light up the night with the warmth of a thousand lights, may each glowing bulb carry a wish for joy, a sprinkle of magic, and a season aglow with love,” said Bornman. “Let the festive lights be a beacon, guiding us into the heart of a joyous celebration.”
The JBay Light Tour will also be launched on the day.
Lights in the Park
From 19 December 2023 to 27 December 2023, between 19:00 and 22:00, Dogwood Park, located at the intersection of Dogwood Road and Noorsekloof Road, will be illuminated with a spectacular display of lights.
No entry fee is required.
“Light seekers” can also explore the labyrinth adorned with 1 000 Spekboom plants.
Music and Picnic in the Park
Not stopping there, a free Music and Picnic in the Park event will add to the fun at Dogwood Park on Friday, 22 December 2023, from 16:00 to 22:00.
The evening will kick off with a vintage car display from 17:00 to 19:00, followed by the enchanting performance of Johnny Viljoen and his instrumental band “The geezer” from 18:00 to 19:00. Subsequently, an instrumental jazz and classical band will take to the stage, captivating the audience from 19:00 to 20:00.
Santa Clause is set to make a special appearance from 20:00 to 20:30, spreading holiday cheer by distributing sweets and posing for photos with the children.
This will be followed by a performance by local fire dancer, Ruth Eckermans from True Flame. Do not miss this fiery show.
For those seeking delightful bites, food trucks will be on hand, offering scrumptious treats for purchase from 16:00 to 22:00 throughout the day.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
New Year’s Eve Bash
Adding more excitement to the celebration, a Beach Fun Run of both 10km and 3km will take to the Main Beach on Sunday, 31 December 2023, starting at 07:15 and 07:30 respectively. Participating in the 10km run requires an entry fee of R30, while the 3km run has an entry fee of R20.
Following the invigorating run, an open-air church service featuring praise and worship, led by Reverend Sandra Cuyler, will take place at the amphitheater at 10:30.
The amphitheater will continue to be a hub of activity as Ace Models JBay presents the inaugural Mr and Miss JBay Summer Fun. Breaking away from the traditional modelling competition, participants are encouraged to come as they are, with or without experience. Entries will be accepted from 12:00 to 13:30, followed by casting at 14:00 and the grand finale at 19:00. Notably, Christina Storm and representatives from Boss Models Cape Town will be among the esteemed judges.
The day’s festivities will also feature performances by various local and Eastern Cape artists, including Stephanie Baartman, Anslin Gysman, and Gerrit de Jager (aka Gertjie) from Luister FM, who will also serve as the master of ceremonies.
Adding a lively twist to the day, a Dance Off competition will take center stage, promising to round off the fun with energetic and entertaining moves.
“Packed with an array of entertaining events and activities, the programme promises to spread joy and merriment to young and old,” said Bornman. “We invite everyone to come together, celebrate and make this holiday season truly special while creating lasting memories with family and friends.”
More information
For more information, contact event organiser, Leilani Coetsee, at 084 681 3702. Alternatively, visit the Facebook Page of Kouga Municipality.
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