Maharashtra: IGCC fest to herald Christmas season

Mumbai, Nov 26: The Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) has organised a festival, 'Christmas Fest 2008', on November 29, to herald Christmas season in the city.

Interestingly, Santa Claus will come riding not on a sledge but on an autorickshaw at the Mahalaxmi Race Course ground during the fest.

''Although we cannot bring the German snow, we can bring in the spirit of Christmas, which is celebrated in a big way in Germany.

This year, it will be bigger than the last two festivals,'' said Peter Deulet, Director General of IGCC, here yesterday.

He said a planeload of German food and beverages would be flown in for the two-day festival to recreate the Christmas spirit in the city. There will be over 50 stalls displaying everything from handicrafts, Christmas-themed gifts to German frankfurters and beer.

Apart from the festivities, over 12 NGOs will also open their stalls to highlight their causes and help the less privileged citizens of the city, Mr Deulet said.

The main theme will be children, who will get to interact with Santa himself and indulge in a number of activities including puppet shows, bottle painting, pony rides and magic shows. The festival will also have live performances by Gary Lawyer and Wilbun.

''Half the proceeds of the Lucky Draw and all proceeds from the bottle painting will go to the NGOs,'' he added.

UNI