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

THERE were some very happy children at Ocean Village in Gibraltar as a three-day Frozen themed festival was held with a guest appearance of the non-Disney Father Christmas.

There wasn’t any snow but Olaf the Snowman didn´t melt even though the weather reached 18 degrees. More than 200 children met Santa Claus over the three days that it ran from November 30 to December 2 and £750 (€1,050) was raised for local charity Kids Come First.

Emilia Hazell-Smith, Marketing Executive for Ocean Village, says, “We had to implement a booking system to meet demand for our three-day Grotto running from 30 November to 2 December, 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 £759 fundraising effort for 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 monies raised will go towards Christmas presents, warm clothing, bedding and a spectacular Christmas Party for children in need in Gibraltar.  

Mickey and Minnie, Elsa and Olaf the Snowman and, of course, Santa, were in attendance. St Bernard’s Middle School Choir showcased their angelic voices while Stylos Dance Academy put on a colourful and elaborately choreographed display.