Hundreds of locals, visiting families, and tourists gathered at the National Auditorium and Domes on Thursday evening for the annual Christmas in the Park event, hosted by Rotaract Rarotonga.

The festive gathering, which was filled with entertainment, food and holiday cheer, attracted an enthusiastic crowd eager to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

The event featured a variety of activities for all ages, including an impressive fireworks display that was the highlight of the night. As the sun set, the sky was illuminated by a spectacular show of fireworks, leaving many in awe.

"The display was made possible by Rotaract Rarotonga and facilitated by Mike Henry and his team, whose efforts were greatly appreciated by attendees, particularly the children and families who looked forward to the dazzling spectacle.

Mrs Q (left) with her relatives at their family stall. TALAIA MIKA/24121913

Among the many vendors present was Mrs Mii Upu, well known as Mrs Q, who, along with her relatives, sold sweet treats to the delighted children.

At 74 years old, Mrs. Q has become a staple of the event, and she was thrilled to be part of the celebration again this year.

“It’s a really good thing, and it helps keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Who doesn’t love spending time with family?” said Mrs Q.

“We always come to Christmas in the Park every year, and while some past years were a bit boring, this one has been a big success with the turnout and all the activities.”

The event featured approximately 20 food stalls offering a diverse selection of local delicacies and sweet treats, allowing attendees to savour the island’s flavours.

The evening was also a special occasion for visiting families, such as the family of Alice Williams from New Zealand.

Alice, who grew up in Rarotonga, expressed her excitement about returning for the event with her children, who were eager to spend time with their grandparents.

“This is the only time we really look forward to all year, especially for the kids,” Alice shared. “They love coming home, playing at the beach, and being part of this fantastic celebration. The fireworks are always a big hit, and it’s a chance for us to create lasting memories together.”

One of the entertaining groups, the Filipino Rarotonga team, at the Rotaract Christmas in the Park. TALAIA MIKA/24122041 & 24122044

Toru Nooroa, the president of Rotaract Rarotonga, also expressed her satisfaction with the event’s success.

“The turnout was amazing, and the food stalls were bustling with people enjoying their favourite meals,” Nooroa said.

“The performances were entertaining, and the fireworks were, without a doubt, the highlight of the night.”

Nooroa went on to thank the many sponsors and volunteers who made the event possible.

She expressed her gratitude to MC (master of ceremony) Tony Fe’ao for his excellent hosting, as well as to Santa, Brent Fisher, and others who dressed up as beloved Disney characters to entertain the crowd.

Nooroa also gave special thanks to the entertainers, vendors and Rotaract executives and volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the event a reality.

Korero o te Orau’s 'Ātui'anga ki te Tango performing group spreading the spirit of Christmas at the national auditorium. TALAIA MIKA/24122042/24122043

“The funds raised from this event will support our community initiatives across the country,” Nooroa added.

“We are looking forward to another year of events and volunteering. From all of us at Rotaract Rarotonga, we wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and a prosperous 2025.”

Rotaract Rarotonga Christmas in the Park was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Platinum sponsor Capital Security Bank, gold sponsor CIPS Electronics, and silver sponsors ANZ Bank, Bank of the South Pacific, Cook Islands General Transport, Castaway Resort, Cook Islands Trading Corporation (CITC), Island Car and Bike Hire, Cook Islands Steel, Mama Ts, Cook Islands Funeral Services Ltd, Vonnias, and Vodafone Cook Islands.