Santa’s grotto at Ocean Village Raises over £750 for Kids Come First

Despite distinctly un-Christmassy daytime temperatures of 18ºC, Ocean Village Marina, Gibraltar, has been a whirlwind of Frozen-themed festivity recently. Santa’s Grotto was undoubtedly the highlight with more than 200 children meeting him and raising more than £750 for local charity, Kids Come First in the process.

Emilia Hazell-Smith, marketing executive for Ocean Village commented, “We had to install a booking system to meet demand for our three-day Grotto, with hundreds of little ones keen to share their wish lists with Father Christmas and his Disney sidekick Snow Queen Elsa.  Gifts and balloons were handed out for a £3 entrance fee, which contributed to a massive fundraising effort for local charity Kids Come First.  The atmosphere in Ocean Village was incredible, full of smiles and excitement, and for us this is so rewarding. There will be plenty more events like this in the future.”

Working closely with the Care Agency, Kids Come First ensures that no child goes without over what can be a tricky period for many families. The money raised will go towards Christmas presents, warm clothing, bedding and a spectacular Christmas Party for children in need in Gibraltar.

Richard Buttigieg, Trustee of Kids Come First added, “It was extremely heart-warming to see the children’s faces when they met Santa and the Frozen characters.  Kids Come First is extremely grateful to Emilia and the staff at Ocean Village for all their hard work organising the event.  All those involved approached the event cheerfully and we hope to repeat this positive experience in years to come.”

Ocean Village’s celebrations kicked off at the end of November, with the switching on of the blue-and-white-themed Christmas lights adorning the four-metre tree and crisscrossing the promenade.  Mickey and Minnie, Elsa and Olaf the Snowman and Santa, were in attendance, and St Bernard’s Middle School Choir showcased their voices, while Stylos Dance Academy put on a colourful and elaborately choreographed display.  Naturally Elsa staged a rendition of ‘Let it Go’; no Frozen-style event would be complete without it.  Ocean Village Marina also reported that the occasion drew a massive crowd.

For more information visit Ocean Village Marina