The Tribune

THE Ministry of Tourism is treating dozens of little ones from children’s homes and various communities to an exciting experience at “Christmas On Da Cay”.

Children from the Children’s Emergency Hostel, the Bilney Lane Children’s Home, Urban Renewal and the Ranfurly Home For Children all got to meet Santa Claus and enjoy mouthwatering Bahamian dishes at the Christmas Village on Arawak Cay.

They also all enjoyed an evening of gifts, games, treasure hunts and music.

The Children’s Emergency Hostel visited the Christmas Village on Tuesday, December 13; the Bilney Lane Children’s Home enjoyed a great Bahamian Christmas on Thursday, December 15 and the Ranfurly Home For Children had their evening of fun on Friday, December 16.

“This is exactly the type of atmosphere we’ve been looking for the children this holiday season. It is fun, safe and exciting and they are having a great time. We were thrilled to be invited by the Ministry of Tourism and we will definitely be back at least once more this week,” said Ranfurly Administrator L Alexander Roberts.

More than 100 children from the Urban Renewal programme will visit the cay today.

“We are so honoured to give back to our little ones during this season,” said Carla Stuart, senior director of national planning and special markets. “The Ministry of Tourism envisaged Christmas on the Cay as a celebration of all things Bahamian. It also aims to share that experience with our visitors and locals, particularly our children. This is an exciting development for us in the ministry and for the dozens of children we will host.”

The Christmas Village, which opened to the public on December 5, is an exciting venue for Bahamians and visitors to gather and enjoy a Bahamian Christmas.

The Christmas Village is open to the public every weeknight from 5pm – 9pm showcasing authentic Bahamian gifts and Christmas decorations, mouthwatering holiday treats and great Bahamian entertainment.

Each night will showcase a new and exciting event for visitors and locals alike. The highlight of each evening is the culinary demonstration where those attending can learn how to debone a turkey, make Bahamian eggnog and much more.

The Christmas Village at Arawak Cay is also a one-stop shop for all of your holiday needs featuring a variety of artisans selling unique Bahamian gifts and Christmas decorations.

The last night for the Christmas Village is Thursday, December 22.

The Ministry of Tourism wraps up its Christmas celebrations the day before Christmas Eve. On December 23, all roads lead to the Thomas A Robinson Stadium for the most exciting Christmas football game, the Popeyes Bahamas Bowl.

For more information, visit www.tourismtoday.com/events.