Calling all pav-scoffers

A pavlova-eating competition is an exciting new tweak to Blenheim’s Christmas celebrations this year, in what is hoped to become an annual event.

The new team at Marlborough 4 Fun has been busy organising the two key events in central Blenheim: the Christmas Parade on the afternoon of December 7, and the Christmas Festival from 5pm on December 12.

Manager Taylor von der Decken said this year’s Blenheim Christmas Festival would include lots of live music, young dance troupes, and kids’ entertainment, alongside the first annual pavlova-eating competition.

‘‘It could get messy, but it will be a lot of fun,’’ von der Decken said. ‘‘It’s a fun way to kick off the Christmas season . . . There will be a stage with live performances, there will be fake snow, food trucks, and stallholders with Christmas gifts for sale.’’

The Christmas Parade will feature lots floats and, of course, Santa Claus himself, on a route from Seymour Square, down Queen St and up Market St from 3.30pm, It will be a celebratory end to the Blenheim Lions Club annual Mistletoe Market, where the Marlborough District Brass Band will serenade shoppers in the central business district, from 9am until 2pm.

‘‘It’s all about giving people that Christmas joy feeling, people can get some Christmas shopping done and then get together in town to watch the parade,’’ von der Decken said.

Marlborough 4 Fun was still looking for buskers and entertainers, and was always open to new ideas about the best way to celebrate the festive season, she said. ‘‘People are great at contacting us with ideas through Facebook and email.’’

After Christmas, the charitable events trust will also host the free New Year’s Eve Ignite 2020 party at the Picton foreshore from 7pm on December 31, and the Summer Concert series in February.

Dessert enthusiasts should enter the pavlova-eating competition by emailing events@marlborough4fun.co.nz.