It's Christmas Time in Tonga

Well it's started, carols on the radio (the same one all the time though), tinsel in the shops and now the community Christmas Tree. Friday night saw the official lighting of the tree, so we went along to watch. A vacant block of land in town was all set up with sausage sizzle, BBQ chicken cooking in the trailer, icecreams and face painting for the kids, a great fun atmosphere. After an hour of carols by the Police band, the tree was lit up on time at 8pm sharp, and then we waited for Santa. Atleast 300 kids all lined up patiently waiting for a little gift from the big fella but when he ran out it was time to go home. Every Friday night from now on until Christmas the whole shebang will be repeated, what a great way to get into the spirit of it all.

The tree at 7pm prior to lighting.

The Police band getting the kids dancing.

All surrounding lights off waiting for the big switch

Ah, all lit up with the Big Red Fella in action.