THE SPAR Summer Nathi Festival is back this year, kicking off on December 16, with various activities for all to enjoy.
Starting with the opening of the season at Hobie Beach on December 16, the programme will end with the traditional blockbuster New Year’s parties at Wells Estate and Hobie Beach on December 31.
Picnics, musical shows and various fun activities will be on offer, with artists such as Lady Zamar, DJ Maphorisa, LKG, Kabza de Small and Simmy, as well as various local acts, lined up to entertain the community.
Seki Mandaba, acting executive director of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s (NMBM) sport, recreation, arts and culture portfolio, said it was important to keep the creative industry in motion.
“Our programme is spread across the metro, from Port Elizabeth right through to Uitenhage, with sponsored and various other events in the city,” Mandaba said.
The other events in the Summer Nathi programme include a Christmas Picnic in the Park at Happy Valley on December 22, and the Uitenhage Picnic at the Willow Dam on December 23.
Metro safety and security executive director, Keith Meyer, said those attending should enjoy themselves responsibly.
Meyer added, “The influx of visitors to the city’s various tourist attractions leads to a dramatic rise in vehicle and pedestrian traffic. With businesses closing and the high levels of alcohol associated with the festive season, the safety and security directorate has intensified its strategies.
“We will have a zero-tolerance policy on any misdemeanours.”
SPAR sponsorship and events manager, Alan Stapleton, urged the organisers to reinforce a message about protecting the environment.
“Summer Nathi is all about bringing people together and celebrating the beauty of our city and the beauty of our people.
“One really big request we have is to use this programme to keep talking about the STOP Plastic campaign and to keep PE clean. Through Summer Nathi, we can embrace change, embrace diversity and embrace good values,” Stapleton said.
