‘Geraldton people just love Christmas on the Terrace’: Annual Marine Terrace tradition is another smash hit

Marine Terrace came alive on Thursday night as the annual Christmas on the Terrace filled the street with festive spirit. The busy terrace was filled families, stalls, and activations, drawing thousands of people. There was no doubt visitors would leave with a full belly, with many local cafes and restaurants on Marine Terrace mall staying open late for the occasion. For those wanting to get something different, there was also food trucks at the south end of the event. Casablanca and The Spunky Spud both seemed to be crowd favourites. Local organisations and businesses were represented among the stall holders, including the Geraldton Regional Library’s second-hand book stall and the Geraldton Dog Rescue fundraising efforts. Community groups and small businesses selling handmade goods added to the warm, inclusive atmosphere. Visitors had their eyes caught by roller skaters in full Christmas regalia, or stilt-walkers towering over the crowd. There were a range of exciting and educational activities for kids. The initial surprise of seeing a group of lifeless dummies scattered around a St John ambulance quickly wore off as health workers gave children a rundown on CPR basics. Close-by, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services were making dreams come true and opening the fire truck for inspection. Both the Grinch and Santa were present at the event, but seemed to be keeping a safe distance from each other. Santa stayed on his sleigh posing for photos, while the Grinch roamed the event with mischief in his eyes. Music filled the night air with a variety of buskers performing and Geraldton City Band delivering classic Christmas tunes. Market goers could pick up unusual gifts, including show bags, or crafts made at a specially set up Mentally Healthy Christmas Alley. Local band members and recent WAM Award winners RATSALAD were offering unique merch for sale. City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune said he thoroughly enjoyed the event and that it seemed to be getting bigger every year. “I don’t know what it is, but Geraldton people just love Christmas on the Terrace,” he said.