Parkes was hit by many storms late last week and over the weekend, but the weather cleared up beautifully to launch the Christmas season on Friday evening.
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The family fun night, Upmarkets and movie night in Cooke Park enjoyed wonderful weather, and large numbers of families turned out to enjoy the busy program of activities.
More than 50 market stalls were set up in the park, and enjoyed good patronage from the crowd.
Organisers Belinda McCorkell and Kristy Berry were thrilled with the success of their first Christmas event, which featured market stalls, food and drink vendors, outdoor movie, appearances by Santa and Healthy Harold.
“We are keen to grow the night markets even further next year,” Kristy said.
Santa Clause’s appearance in particular was a big hit with the crowd.
“To the delight of the children, Santa arrived in a custom-made sleigh, specifically made by the wonderful Pop Rawson, which was pulled by a tractor and had lots of fabulous lights and sounds.
“It was a fantastic way to kick off the night that will, no doubt, become the traditional way to start every Christmas Night Upmarkets from here on in,” Kristy said.
“A wonderful array of stalls was on offer in the Park, from handmade children’s items, jewellery, knick knacks, crafts, homewares, bags, candles, confectionary and many more handmade goods showcasing the talented craftspeople and artisans that we have on offer in our area.
“Food was in abundance with schools and charity groups providing an ideal opportunity to raise much-needed funds for their annual projects.
“The atmosphere in the park was electric as many families waited in anticipation as the Northparkes Mines Big Screen was erected for the 8.30pm screening of ‘Polar Express’.
“Many people came prepared with their pillows, blankets and chairs to relax and enjoy a beautiful evening under the stars in the picturesque Cooke Park,” Kristy said.
The organisers said they were overwhelmed with the support they received from the Parkes Shire Council, Parkes Chamber of Commerce, Northparkes Mines, the participating stallholders, Parkes School of Dance for the entertainment and the generosity of Pop Rawson who went to so much effort with the Santa sleigh.
“We would also like to thanks all the attendees.
The evening would not have been such a success if we had not have such great support from the community.”
The next Parkes Upmarkets will be held in March 2015.
