Christmas Country Fair a hit, bigger and better despite Covid-19

The Covid-19 compliant 68th Country Christmas Fair was bigger and better this year, despite almost not taking place. 

Normally end October, the fair was moved to December to keep it on the calendar and attracted more than 3 000 people over 3 days.

Fair Fund chairlady, Gaby Lyle, said they could not afford to cancel the fair as it was the biggest annual fundraising event of the Christmas Fair Fund, where 100% of the profit is channeled to ongoing worthy projects.

To enable social distancing the fair was extended from 2 to 3 days and an outside food and drink section was added to the already large and open venue.

Despite a near wash-out on Thursday evening, Lyle said they were pleased with the turnout but while they are still counting, the amount raised did not look to compare to that of 2019.

“The weather was fabulous on Wednesday and Thursday – the atmosphere, food and bar were lovely and people were more than satisfied. But my goodness, then the heavens opened up,” said Lyle.

Laughing about it, Lyle said the rain flooded the main marquee. 

“It came right past the main entrance. All I can say is that we are thankful to have had the extended hours. It was a mad dash as we all – stall holders and guests alike – salvaged and grabbed what we could.”

“We thank the community for their support, especially those who came on Friday.”

To donate to the Christmas Fair Fund, you can get a MySchool card at Woolworths and select them as a beneficiary. For direct donations contact gill@thechristmasfairfund.co.za.