Carols under the African sky

Get your festive spirit on at Carols by Candlelight. There is plenty of entertainment, and the entry fee is a new toy for a less-privileged chilld.
IN Joburg, there is no chance of celebrating the white Christmas that so many carols boast about; instead, we rejoice in the fact that summer is at its peak and we can frolic in the warm evening air as we sing along to our favourite carols in the flickering light of candles.

Spreading Christmas cheerSpreading Christmas cheer: Carols by CandlelightTo take advantage of the balmy evenings the city enjoys, Montecasino will be hosting its annual Carols by Candlelight evening on the outdoor piazza on 8 December. The event is organised in association with Spar and Jacaranda 94.2.

As well as getting people into the spirit of the end-of-year festivities, they are encouraged to open their hearts by bringing toys for the less-privileged. “In the spirit of giving and making a practical difference in the lives of those less fortunate, the entry fee will be a new toy for an underprivileged child,” says Gaole Bogatsu from Strategic Public Relations.

Fundraising will also spread the Christmas cheer. “Combinations of songbooks and candles will also be on sale at R10 and R20 respectively, with proceeds being donated to the Jacaranda 94.2 Good Morning Angels Fund,” she adds.

The fund helps those who need assistance, mostly of a medical and economic nature. It was re-launched in 2009, and uses the radio station’s network of clients, contacts, friends and agencies to raise money.

Stalls will be selling toys on the night for the cause.

Besides the carols, there will be plenty of entertainment on offer, with some of South Africa’s most well-known and popular stars performing. On the bill are Kurt Darren, Loyiso Bala, Nianell, Romanz and the Holy Jerusalem Choir.

And there is a specially designated kiddies' zone. It will have jumping castles, a special visit from Father Christmas and his elves, a photo booth, face painter, balloon modeller and magician, all guaranteed to keep the children entertained.

But should the Grinch make his presence known by sending rain, the organisers have warned that the event may have to be delayed or even cancelled. No umbrellas are allowed on the piazza, but ponchos will be provided to keep guests dry.

Picnic baskets are not allowed either, but there will be a wide array of food and drinks on sale.

Gates open at 5pm, and although the show only starts at 7pm, guests have been urged to arrive early. Song sheets and candles will be on sale from 5.05pm. The event will end at 8.30pm.

Montecasino can be found on Montecasino Boulevard, on the corner of William Nicol Drive and Witkoppen Road in Fourways.