Pretoria carols by candlelight kicks off festive season in style
A total of 125 giant boxes of toys for children in need, 25 boxes of supplies for Mamelodi flood victims, and raising more than R30 000 for Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels.
SPAR Carols by Candlelight with Jacaranda FM kicked off the festive season on a high note in Johannesburg and Pretoria despite the recent rains.
Both events were moved indoors and even though space was limited, the venues were packed and there was no stopping the crowd’s festive spirit.
The Pretoria event was moved from Loftus Versfeld to the Moreletapark Gemeente on Tuesday evening.
It featured a first-class line-up including Tarryn Lamb, Roan Ash, Swing City, the Ndlovu Youth Choir and the Soweto Gospel Choir, this time joined by Jo Black, Riana Nel, Joshua na die Reën and Early B.
The event raised 125 giant boxes of toys for children in need, 25 boxes of supplies for Mamelodi flood victims and more than R30 000 for Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels.
Jacaranda FM presenters, including the likes of Martin Bester, Liesl Laurie, Elma Smit, Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp, Rozanne McKenzie, Alex Jay and Rian van Heerden, broadcast live from both events.
Despite the weather, SPAR saw to it that little ones were thoroughly entertained with jumping castles, face-painters, games, crafts, buskers, movies and more.
Entrance to the event was free, but those who attended were encouraged to donate a toy to children in need and to support Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels through electric candle and songbook sales.
SPAR (SA) advertising and promotions manager Piet van Vuuren donated an extra R50 000.
Jacaranda FM marketing manager Leith Smith said the event has been an annual festive highlight for well over a decade.
“Year after year we are overwhelmed by the electric atmosphere, the unity, the generosity and the hope that this event brings,” he said.
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“Even though we had to move indoors, thousands of people from all walks of life still came through to enjoy their favourite festive songs with loved ones, performed by some of SA’s favourite artists – all to help kids that they may never get to meet.
“That is what the Jacaranda FM spirit is all about.
“We would like to thank every single person who contributed to this year’s success and wish all of SA a happy, blessed and safe festive season,” Smith said.
Photo: Eliot Mahlase
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