The season of giving and sharing the wonders of Christmas is nearly upon us and the Tropical Christmas in Raro committee is in full swing organising events and activities to bring joy to island residents especially children.

The committee is on the lookout for Santa volunteers. Unfortunately, no one has raised their hand yet to suit up as Santa, Elfie or Mrs Claus.

“The committee understands being Santa is a big commitment for one person, so this year we are welcoming more than one Santa and can split the visits between the Santa volunteers,” said Ann Raymond from the Tropical Christmas committee.

“We are sure there’re a lot of retired men out there who could contribute some time to being Santa.”

Santa will be required to appear at the Punanga Nui Market and supporting businesses in town on the three Saturdays – December 3, 10, 17 – leading up to Christmas.

Santa visits are also scheduled for the Creative Centre in Tupapa, Cook Islands Mental Health Clinic in Panama, Rarotonga Hospital and the Are Pa Metua Centre at the Punanga Nui Market.

The annual Santa Parade will be held on Thursday, December 15 at 4.30pm, the floats will start the parade from the Constitution Park through town.

Businesses and non-government organisations (NGOs) are encouraged to enter a float in the Santa Parade, or people could volunteer to wear the Disney character costumes.

All businesses are kindly asked if they could deck their premises out in Christmas decorations and lights by December 1^st.

Tropical Christmas in Raro is made up of a committee of several Rarotonga merchants who in 2013 came together to find a way to put the “Island Spirit” back into Christmas, to bring joy to the faces of the children and light up the island for Christmas.

The Christmas Club organises activities and events throughout December to make Christmas a fun and happy time for all children.

It is a non-profit group which relies on the generous support and donation from community businesses and sponsors.

For more information, contact the Tropical Christmas in Raro Facebook page or email araymond@citc.co.ck.