Temora was certainly the place to be last Friday afternoon when more than a thousand people gathered for the annual TBEG Christmas Street Fair.
In an event that had something for everyone, scores of people from not just Temora but as far away as Wagga and Lake Cargelligo, packed the main street and sections of Loftus Street.
This year’s fair focused on live entertainment which drew in the masses and saw local businesses benefit.
Whip-cracking, dance acts by Temora youngsters, lyra performances, live music and even a petting zoo were just some of the features that kept both young and old entertained.
In addition to the products local businesses had on sale, over 30 market stalls were also set up along the main street to showcase their goods as well.
Temora Christmas Street Fair Executive Officer, Ashlee Smith, was overwhelmed by the response.
“I’m extremely pleased with how well attended this was. I think the fact we were going to put on a big show really spread throughout the region.
Much of that was thanks to the $12,000 Reconnecting Regional Communities Grant we received which allowed us to go all out,” Ms Smith said.
The success was made even more remarkable given the fact TBEG only began planning for the event a few months ago.
“We couldn’t really start until after August. Normally we begin much earlier but we needed to
get T-Light out of the way first. Despite not having long to prepare, I think we pulled it off with a bang,” Ms Smith said.
“Hoskins Street wasn’t closed for the 2021 event so everyone was confined to the footpath. This year we were able to close the street and it gave people a much better opportunity to wander around freely.
“This year my goal was to put on a show and really embrace the live entertainment aspect. I wanted to support local entertainers who weren’t able to work during COVID. They are really good at what they do and they also need a boost. It’s also helped promote local businesses and give them a real opportunity to showcase what they have to offer.
“We had schools on-board, charities, a versatile range of market stalls, and fantastic weather to top it off. I want to thank everyone who worked to make this year’s Fair so special as well as those who attended,” Ms Smith said.
