• Bluff’s annual Santa Parade and Gala Day return on Sunday, 8 December.
  • Activities include live entertainment, gaming, competitions, and festive decorations across the town.
  • Free admission makes it a family-friendly celebration packed with holiday cheer.

Bluff is gearing up for a festive December, with the Santa Parade and Christmas Gala Day set to bring the community together on Sunday, 8 December. Organised by Bluff Promotions and the Christmas In The Bluff Committee, these events promise a day filled with fun, entertainment, and seasonal spirit.

The Santa Parade kicks off at 1 pm, winding down Gore Street (State Highway 1) before concluding at the Oyster Festival site on Barrow Street. Spectators can expect a diverse lineup of parade participants, including Bluff Mayor Nobby Clark, the Town Crier, Steampunk groups, marching teams, medieval knights, and even the iconic Steve-O the Stag.

At the end of the parade route, the Christmas Gala Day will be in full swing with activities for all ages. Families can enjoy face painting, mini jeeps, a bouncy castle, and games, while the Santa Grotto is sure to delight children. For the older teens, a gaming area is a new addition expected to be a crowd-pleaser.

Other attractions include a chocolate wheel, craft stalls, food options, and live music. A Decorated Christmas Wreath Competition allows attendees to vote for their favourite wreath with a gold coin donation. Bluff Promotions has also launched a Decorated Shop Window competition, offering a trophy for the best display.

The festive spirit doesn’t end there, as Bluff homeowners are encouraged to join the fun by decorating their properties. While there’s no competition for house displays, their addresses will be shared to create a festive trail for the public to explore.

The parade will once again be streamed live on the "What's On Invers" Facebook page, thanks to Awarua Synergy.

Those interested in joining the parade or decorating their shops or homes can contact Alison Patrick at 0273 509 686 or [email protected]. For Gala Day inquiries or participation, Debbie Fife is available at 03 212 6800 or [email protected]

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