Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) together with other tourism institutions under the Ministry of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs has organised a Christmas fest as a tourist attraction.
The festival is organised to feature Sri Lankan food, culture, gems, tea, shopping and entertainment at one venue during the holiday as the month of December is the peak month for tourist arrivals and festivities.
One of the main attractions during this Fest will be an exposition of Sri Lankan culture and heritage presented by the Central Cultural Fund showcasing photographs, artefact replicas, books including live demonstrations of replication of artefacts.
An exhibition on Sri Lankan gems organised by the Gem & Jewelry Authority, with a sales outlet as well, will be a part of the Festival.
The tourism fest will feature stalls presented by leading hotels and restaurants in Colombo with live demonstrations of different cuisines giving visitors an opportunity to learn and experience culinary skills of Sri Lanka and sit and enjoy a meal while enjoying the festive glamour.
The Zoological Department and the Department of Wildlife will also be involved in this event where each stakeholder will have exhibitions relevant to the wildlife of Sri Lanka and zoological gardens of the island. There will also be a display of live snakes, a unique experience for those fascinated by the rich wildlife in Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lanka Tea Board will feature a tea tasting centre with a display of the diverse tea available in the island.
Similarly the Handicrafts Board will have a sales outlet with authentic Sri Lankan handicrafts and a display of same. A bazar will also be found at the venue with sales outlets consisting of gift items for the season, Christmas decor, sweetmeats and many more.
The five days of festivities will also consist of cultural shows being performed by the Sri Lanka Armed Forces and the Department of Culture and the Sri Lanka Youth Council. Their performances will range from music, traditional dances to modern choreography to cater to the variety of visitors at the venue.
The true spirit of Christmas would not be complete without carols and a variety of schools and choirs of Churches will be performing carols during this event. A kiddies’ play area and children’s entertainment will also be available at the venue for the enjoyment of the whole family.
All activities will take place at the Arcade, Independence Square, from 19 to 23 December from 6.00 pm to 11.00pm. It will be inaugurated with a spectacle of fireworks which is expected to be a major attraction.
A special double-decker shuttle bus service organised by ‘Colombo City Tour’ will be available from selected Colombo hotels daily to and from the venue with live carols onboard.
Sri Lanka Travel Feneteko