Carlo Petersen
CONSUMERS are descending on shops in large numbers with the festive season almost in full swing, although it is still too early to say whether they have broken last year’s record.
Extended operating hours, choirs singing carols and Father Christmas making his annual visit are but a few of the holiday additions shopping centres are providing to add further cheer.
Customers could be seen queueing outside shops at Canal Walk, the V&A Waterfront, N1 City Mall and Cavendish Square before 9am yesterday.
Shops have reported positive trading, with popular gifts being technology, toys and fragrances, Canal Walk spokeswoman Vanessa Herbst said.
She said last-minute Christmas shoppers were expected.
“This year, shoppers have the opportunity to visit the Ice Slide Wonderland, which includes an 80m slide made of ice and two smaller slides for the younger kids,” Herbst said.
N1 City Mall is keeping its doors open for business until 8pm this week. The centre will also be open from 8am from December 22 to 24.
On those days, the first 200 early-morning shoppers can get a free cappuccino voucher from the information desk.
At Cavendish, shoppers can experience live music and photos with Father Christmas, and extended trading hours from 9am to 9pm on December 22 and 23, and from 9am to 7pm on December 24, 26 and 31.
Waterfront spokeswoman Enid Vickers said: “In keeping with the spirit of this season of giving, Cape Town charities will benefit from the proceeds of four gift-wrapping stations.
“For little visitors, there will be a special visit by Father Christmas. The Amphitheatre also gets into the cheerful spirit with entertainment including Hugo Lambrechts Symphony Orchestra, Carols by Candlelight and the Festive Choirs.
“For a fun evening on Christmas, pack a picnic basket and head for the Galileo Open Air Cinema to watch a movie under the stars. The festive film Elf will be screened from 8pm on the croquet lawn.”