Christmas Bazaar Kicks off Abaco Festive Season in Style

Abaco, Bahamas: It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year, and the island of Abaco is gearing up to host its 15thannual Christmas Festival on December 1, 2018,at the BAIC Park.

The event which brings together the entire island from the north to the south, leaving no one behind, is one of the most anticipated events on the island’s calendar.

 Wynsome Ferguson, Manager of the Abaco Tourist Office, said this event kicks off the season and is a well-loved initiative.

 “The Christmas Bazaar is a family event; the entire island comes together to celebrate the holiday season, from north to south, and to give back. Corporate Abaco gives back to the community as well as civic organizations lend their time and support. Kids look forward to seeing Santa and the grown-ups enjoy the camaraderie as well as the entertainment. It’s a good time,” Fergusonsaid. 

The event was launched in the aftermath of Hurricanes Jeanne and Francis which devastated the island. Joanne Bradley wanted to host an event to lift the spirit of Abaconians. Her original idea was to do a Taste of Abaco but since there was an existing Christmas bazaar, she partnered with the Abaco Tourist Office and the Office of Local Government to form the Abaco Christmas Festival. She along with Brenda Sawyer are co-chairs of the festival.

Every year, kids receive free toys donated by Baker’s Bay and free candy bags are donated by the Abaco Club on Winding Bay. Entertainment this year features appearances by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Marching and Pop Band, New Entry Band, Cultural Mime, Rashad the Sax Man and of course, no event is complete without the beating of the goatskindrums and the pulsating sounds of Junkanoo. 

Along with exciting sounds, the festival will open the Christmas season with the official tree lighting.