MEDIA RELEASE

1 November, 2016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington City Council and David Jones have partnered for a “Very Welly Christmas” celebration

Wellington City Council has partnered with David Jones to bring a two-day, fun-filled festival to Lambton Quay from 10 to 11 December. This year, the precinct will be magically transformed to host the largest festival yet in preparation to welcome Santa to his newest residence at David Jones.

Wellington’s Mayor Justin Lester says: “This will be a uniquely Wellington Christmas celebration with community participation at its heart. We’re taking what we’ve had in the past and creating a Christmas event for all ages to enjoy.”

Between 12 noon and 8pm on Saturday 10 December, and 12 noon and 6pm on Sunday 11 December, Lambton Square to the Old Bank Arcade will close to traffic and people will be able to promenade the length and breadth of one of Wellington’s iconic shopping districts.

Locals and visitors can expect Christmas carols, a giant snow dome, performances from around the globe, community choirs, A Very Welly Christmas photo booth, giveaways, and see Santa in his specially handcrafted sleigh. .

David Jones General Manager of Retail Operations, Aaron Faraguna says: “David Jones has a 178-year history as the home of Christmas in Australia and we’re looking forward to sharing that spirit with the city of Wellington.

It’s been a pleasure to support Wellington City Council and be a part of the magical transformation of Lambton Quay – the capital’s historic retail centre. We look forward to delivering a memorable Christmas experience for all.”

Following the parades held on both Saturday and Sunday, Santa will return to his residence at David Jones Wellington where he’ll be taking portraits on his throne with children from November till every day up until Christmas.

Council’s Senior Advisor for City Events, David Daniela says: A Very Welly Christmas has been in the planning stages for months now. Performers and retailers are gearing up and ready to go but we also want to remind people that Christmas is a time of giving – we’ll be asking people to dig deep and help support the Wellington Children’s Hospital.”

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