By Nangamso Mabindla
20 January 2005

RESIDENTS of East London are gearing up for one of the biggest highlights on the city's social calendar - the annual two-day Port Festival at the city's harbour.

The organising committee is pulling out all the stops to produce yet another successful festival - which will be held over the Easter weekend.

"This year's festival will be bigger and better than last year's," says committee member, Terry Taylor, adding that organisers are hoping to attract visitors from as far a field as the Free State.

"For the first time in four years we will be holding it during Easter, when the schools will also be closed," Taylor says.

The festival has been one of the East London's annual attractions, bringing in visitors from all over Buffalo City and beyond - and having a positive impact on the local economy.

For festivalgoers, it offers the opportunity to buy local products including crafts.

"But, it's not only the buying power of people. You must also remember that some people book hotels and stay for the weekend. This is good money for the city's hotel industry."

The festival also receives television coverage, which in turn helps promote the city to potential tourists.

But the biggest winners, says Taylor, are the charity organisations around the city.

"Last year, we donated over R300 000 to local charities and schools," says Taylor. "A further R200 000 was raised by the schools and churches that had their stalls at the festivals - so we raised at least half a million for charities."

Taylor promises to bring back some of the popular events: the Formula 1 power boats; the international inflatable boat race; jazz festivals; the beer garden; and the kids entertainment section. "We want to have local dance bands, jazz groups and other local entertainers performing for the crowds," he adds.

Individuals and businesses can also buy stalls. A craft stall will cost R300, while a corporate stand will cost R500. Service organizations, like churches, will be able to get a free stand.

For more information contact Terry Taylor on (043) 700 1200.