The Eunice Christmas Market returns with gifts, entertainment, and opportunities to support local businesses. It runs from Thursday (29/10) to Saturday, 7 November, with daily opening hours from 10:00 to 19:00.

Jhani de Abru, an educator at Eunice High School, who helps organise the market, said the event began in 2000 as a fundraiser initiated by former educator Mag Marais. The aim was to raise funds for school infrastructure and resources, while also supporting charitable organisations.

Over the years, the market has grown into a much-anticipated community event. Its continued success depends on fresh ideas, school-wide involvement, and support from management and the school governing body, which help keep the experience exciting for visitors.

The Eunice Christmas Market. Photo supplied

This year, shoppers can browse products from about 160 exhibitors, with vendors travelling from across the country. Organisers source unique gifts from places such as Johannesburg and Cape Town, bringing visitors a variety of products they might not find in conventional shops.

Businesses and entrepreneurs from Bloemfontein and surrounding areas will also be represented, allowing shoppers to support the regional economy while finding something special for friends and family ahead of Christmas.

The market also celebrates the Eunice community’s lasting connections, with several former learners returning as exhibitors. Their participation highlights how the event has maintained its place in the school’s history while creating opportunities for past and present members of the community to reconnect.

Families can make an outing of their visit, with local artists and singers scheduled to perform in the school’s quad during the late afternoons. Visitors are encouraged to follow the market’s social media pages for performance schedules and further event information.

All dads have officially been invited. While the moms browse the stalls, comfortable seating in the garden offers a place to relax between shopping stops. Organisers have also made provision for gifts for men.

Beyond the shopping, the market offers families an opportunity to slow down, spend time together and enjoy the school grounds in a festive atmosphere. Whether visitors arrive with a Christmas shopping list or simply want to explore, there is room for everyone to enjoy the experience.

The market will also welcome visitors on voting day, 4 November, offering another opportunity to enjoy the grounds and browse the stalls.

OFM News/Ditebogo Molefi dg

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