Gisborne’s festive spirit is back in full swing this December with the return of the Gizzy Christmas Parade followed by It’s a Gizzy Christmas community celebration at Marina Park.
The popular community events mark the official start of the festive season and are expected to bring more than 5,000 families, friends and neighbours together to celebrate all things Christmas.
The Christmas Parade kicks off at 4pm on Sunday 7 December, starting from the Peel Street Bridge roundabout, looping through Palmerston Rd, Grey St and Gladstone Rd, before finishing at Lowe St.
More than 20 local businesses, organisations and community groups are already lined up to take part, dressing up, decorating vehicles and spreading festive cheer.
Santa Claus will make his grand appearance to close the parade with a touch of Christmas magic.
Immediately after, the fun continues at Marina and Kelvin Parks from 5pm - 8pm, where the It’s a Gizzy Christmas community event will take over with something for everyone to enjoy.
“After the parade winds its way through town, the celebrations will continue by the river – it’s a great way to come together and celebrate what makes Gizzy so special,” organiser Tash Olsen.
Tamariki can look forward to free face painting, Christmas ornament crafts, a sausage sizzle, bouncy castles, spot prizes, themed photo booths for capturing Christmas memories and the chance to write letters to Santa.
For adults, there’ll be Gizzy’s favourite food trucks, live music and plenty of space to relax with a picnic blanket or chair under the summer sky.
The parade and park celebration are both free, family-friendly events, made possible through community support and collaboration, funded by Gisborne District Council $40k, Trust Tairāwhiti $15k and parade sponsors Professional Traffic Solutions are covering the costs for all of the traffic management.
“These events promise to bring the spirit of Christmas back to the heart of Gisborne,” says Ms Olsen.
“So gather your whānau, grab your Santa hats and join in the festive fun – a Gizzy Christmas is back!”
When: Sunday 7 December
Parade: 4pm, City Centre
Christmas event: 5pm - 8pm, Marina Park, 1 Vogel Street
Postponement date: Sunday 14 December
Parade route loop: Start Peel St bridge à Palmerston Rd à Grey St à Gladstone Rd à Ends Lowe St
