IT’S the most wonderful time of the year, especially for Durban North playschool teacher Anne Moodie, who is known for her famous Christmas lights display and Christmas market over the December period.

Once again, Moodie is pulling out all the stops and invites the public to come and watch the magical switch-on, on Sunday, December 1, at 18:30. This year, wors rolls will be on sale to raise money for the Annie’s Busy Beez.

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“Each year, putting up the lights becomes more magical and special to me. What started off with only about six lights has grown into something that brings the community together. Now, there are literally hundreds. I absolutely love Christmas, just as my mom did,” she told Northglen News.

Those attending the switch-on are invited to take along deck chairs and drinks. The highlight is the 6m tall tree and to to add to the festivities, there is a postbox in the front of the property where children can post their letters to Santa. Mom and Dad are asked to include an email address so Santa can respond.

There will also be a drive-through where the children can get sweets on December 22, 23 and 24.

Apart from the famous lights display, Moodie also holds a Christmas Market every December, just in time for everyone to get their unique gifts for family, friends and teachers.

“In 2013, we held a fair as a fundraiser for the school as we had just turned 10 and wanted to celebrate and raise funds for the school. It wasn’t held in December at first, but we thought, why not change the date and have a Christmas market,” she said.

And that was how Annie’s Busy Beez Christmas Fair was born, starting with 21 stalls, growing steadily over the years to nearly 100.

This year’s market takes place on December 7, from 10:00 to 14:00, at Northwood Crusaders. Christmas goodies, cakes, tea, tornado twisters, leather goods, gift items, books, wicker furniture, candles, glassware, accessories, clothing, jewellery and more will be on sale.

“The star of the show is Father Christmas arriving in a helicopter to hand out sweets to all the children who attend. I love seeing the children so happy,” she said.

There’s also a playland for the children with inflatables, an obstacle course and a soft play area. Entry to the market is free, but the venue does charge R10 for entry and parking.

Contact Moodie on gary.anne@mweb.com to book or WhatsApp 083 463 7849.

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