Free events get everyone into festive mood
There are plenty of free events and activities for all the family to enjoy in Auckland city this month.
ASB Santa’s Bach – from December 6 to 24 Children of all ages can take a tour through Santa’s customised ‘‘Kiwiana HQ’’ where they can meet the man himself, make an application to be one of Santa’s elves and dress up. Entry is free but people can donate presents which Santa will deliver to the Auckland City Mission. Open on Thursdays from 5pm-9pm, Fridays from 3pm9pm and weekends from 10am-6pm at Wynyard Quarter. Silo Christmas Cinema and Markets – from December 6 The Silo Park markets will have a mix of food stalls, arts and crafts, vintage clothing, contemporary artists and Christmas trees for sale. Open on Thursdays and Fridays from 5pm till late and Saturdays and Sundays from noon till 6pm. Silo Cinema will get in to the Christmas spirit with a lineup of old favourites. Films start at 9pm.
It’s a Wonderful
Life
– December 6
Nightmare before Christmas – December 13
The Muppet Christmas Carol – December 20 Angel Wings Wishing Tree for Auckland City Mission Throughout December the Angel Wings Wishing Tree will be in Silo Park for people to tie a ‘‘wish’’ on to and make a donation to the Auckland City Mission. Go to your waterfront.co.nz/christmas for more details. Bandstand Under the Stars – December 9 to 21 Learn some new moves or show off the ones you already have to salsa, swing, Celtic Ceilidh or ballroom with a live band. Dance instructors will be on hand to show everyone the moves. Takes place on Friday and Saturday from 8pm-11pm in Aotea Square. Concrete Theatre December 13 to 21 A range of free entertainment including circus by Campground Chaos, back flips and drum beats from Strike Per-
– cussion, a retelling of Homer’s Odyssey, comedy by Double Derelicts, the sounds of the Gospel Choir and performances by the National Youth Theatre Company in Aotea Square. Go to theedge.co.nz/freeevents to check times and dates. Markets – December 13 to 21 Arts, crafts, boutique designers, jewellery, clothing, prints, vintage sellers and food outlets. Open on Fridays and Saturdays from 5pm10pm in Aotea Square. Live at Lunch – December 16 to 20 Pick up a snack, lounge in a deck chair or under an umbrella, play giant versions of Connect 4 and Jenga and listen to some live music. Plays Monday and Fridays from noon till 2pm in Aotea Square. Go to the-edge.co.nz/ freeevents for more details.