Tourism Fest kicks off on grand scale

Thursday, 22 December 2016 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

It was a glamorous yet sophisticated evening at the Independence Arcade Colombo, as the Tourism Fest, hosted by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau in collaboration with the private and Government sector kicked off. The atmosphere was magical, with fireworks prancing on air, a magnificent Christmas tree, and Christmas carols performed by the Police band and popular artistes, further enhancing the beauty of the night. The atmosphere would have reminded one of America’s Disney Wonderland. The inauguration ceremony was held under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs and Lands John Amaratunga, Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Chairman Paddy Withana, other religious dignitaries, Government and private sector officials. The Closing Ceremony of this magnificent festival will be graced by President Maithripala Sirisena on 23 December amidst a distinguished gathering.

The festival includes a massive variety of trade stalls ranging from gift items, local crafts, hampers and a variety of products. The whole area took a carnival atmosphere with both foreign and local visitors going through the stalls, experiencing the heavenly food which had been put up by the city’s top hotels. Children enjoying themselves in the play area offering everything to keep them happy including pony rides, a mini merry-go-round, face painting and so on. The lovely Christmas tree, which was lit up by the honorary guests was a major attraction. Throughout the festival, music entertained the crowd, while dance troupes added more color to the occasion. The festival will attract the crowds in Colombo till the 23rd. Colombo Christmas Street, in parallel with the Tourism Fest, will start on the 22nd at Green Path, Colombo, from 22 to 24 December, spreading festive cheer for the public.