By Tabisa Mntengwana
02 December 2009

SUMMER is here, with the festive season entertainment beginning with the switching on of lights in East London and King William’s Town over the weekend.

First to be lit up was King William’s Town, on 28 November. The next evening was the turn of East London.

The ward councillor, Neliswa Dumezweni, began proceedings, with a welcome address in King William’s Town. “This is a time to celebrate and a time for a spiritual rest and happy gatherings with family members.”

Executive Mayor Zukisa Faku followed with a keynote address: “The festive season is a time for giving, sharing, a time for forgiveness and interpersonal reconciliation. This time we urge people to rest and feel the soothing atmosphere of Christmas.”

She also encouraged people to share what they had with the destitute. “As we spoil ourselves and our loved ones with lavish gifts and exotic foods during this festive season, we should also spare a thought for the destitute children and families in our midst, who would give the world to feed from scraps that will fall from our dinner tables.”

Local artists and musicians performed, including Manskap, DMS Entertainment, Exit Jazz Band and Your Own Gospel Music Trio.

In East London, the welcome was given by Speaker of council, Luleka Simon, who encouraged residents to support activities organised by the municipality. “This is the season to be merry and come together and share one another’s company. As we bring various activities to you we would like to see you in numbers at all of them this festive season.”

Over 2 000 people listened to Faku giving her keynote address on the Esplanade. “This is the time to divorce ourselves from the cares and frustrations of the world and firmly embrace the spiritual message of the festive season,” she said.

There was also a Diski Dance demonstration by the provincial 2010 Office, junior and senior soccer match and fireworks. The festivities concluded with performances by DJ Ganyana, Slimo, Sbuda, Dynamix Gospel group, DJ Tulz and singer Winnie Khumalo.