By Tabisa Mntengwana
15 December 2008

A SNAKE show, a mini circus and a fashion show are some of the activities planned for this year’s Christmas Carnival in Buffalo City.

It kicks off in King William’s Town on Tuesday, 16 December with South African Music Award winner Siphokazi. The Afro-pop musician will perform songs from her first album, Amacala, and some newer tunes.

Jazz singer Pearl of Africa will also be performing, and on the decks will be renowned DJ Tira. The carnival will take place at the corner of Taylor and Alexander roads in King William’s Town on 16 and 17 December.

Next up is the first Mdantsane Carnival at the Mdantsane City Mall, on Thursday, 18 December.

This leg of the carnival will see the likes of Jazeel Brothers, Metro FM award winner Big Naz and DJ Tira.

The final days of the carnival will be held on East London’s Esplanade from 19 to 21 December. Expect to hear Afro-jazz singer Sliq Angel and DJ Tira on the decks again.

On Friday, 19 December the carnival will host a Newland Music Battle of the DJs at 12pm. Prizes will range from a mixer and headphones to vouchers for the Newland Music shop in Vincent, East London. “The bonus to the competition is that renowned DJ Tira will be the judge,” said Buffalo City’s manager for tourism development, Phindile Mbonwa.

Participating deejays must be at the Esplanade by 10am. To register, contact Benjamin Goldblum on 043 726 2800. the registration fee is R10.

Also on the cards is a dance competition for amapantsula, traditional and contemporary dancers at 2pm on Saturday, 20 December. A parade with drum majorettes, Vuka Scutas and a brass band will start at the East London City Hall on the day at 11am, making its way through Fleet Street to end at the Court Crescent on the beachfront.

The carnival will close with a Family Fun Walk from Court Crescent, going through Marina Glen and Stirling; walkers will turn at the East London Golf Club in Bunkers Hill and return along the same route.

Register to take part by calling Thandie George on 043 705 1167. Late registration walkers are to be at Court Crescent between 6am and 7.30am on Sunday.

A snake show will be presented at all carnivals by Dave Jevon. “Jevon has a rare collection of snakes and is set to entertain young animal lovers,” said Mbonwa.

The carnivals will also have a kiddies’ corner with activities ranging from face painting and jumping castles to magic shows and a mini circus.

While the kids are busy playing, parents can shop at the craft, clothing, food and beverage stalls. “We have more than 100 stalls for people to shop and entertain themselves,” Mbonwa said

For more information, contact Thandie George on 043 705 1167.

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