Riverslea Mall came alive last Friday evening as the Edgecumbe Christmas Night Market attracted a large and enthusiastic crowd from across the Eastern Bay.

Running from 4pm to 8pm, the event delivered a vibrant mix of local shopping, food, entertainment, and festive fun for all ages.

This year’s market featured over 55 stallholders inside the mall, 10 food trucks in the Holly Jolly Food Court, and a series of themed zones – including Santa’s Attic, Christmas Boulevard, Gingerbread Drive, and Candy Lane, where 10 young entrepreneurs proudly ran their own kids’ stalls. These zones provided an easy-to-navigate layout and helped visitors explore every part of the market.

A new highlight was the Santa Paws Parade, supported by Canine & Co., where dogs arrived dressed in festive outfits and walked the red carpet.

Canine & Co also showcased their popular doggy bus, adding an extra layer of fun and curiosity for families.

The Sound King created a festive atmosphere with music throughout the night.

Wade Builders’ PlaySite featured two bouncy castles and a busy children’s play zone while Let’s Roll, led by Ivy, hosted a lively roller skate disco that quickly became a favourite with the kids.

Smash Party Place brought high-energy fun outside with their Zorb zone, where families gathered picnic-style and enjoyed the summer evening.

Children also enjoyed Jingle Bears, sponsored by Eastern Bay Drainage, along with vibrant Christmas face art created by Chic Face Paint by Julzz.

Professional Santa photos were taken by Katie Gundersen Photography, continuing a tradition cherished by many families.

A standout community initiative was the Santa’s Letterbox, run with support from the Edgecumbe Lions. A total of 80 letters were posted by children from across the region, each receiving a personalised reply.

The Get Wrapped station, operated by Beulah on behalf of The Clothing Project, offered gift wrapping for a gold coin donation, with all proceeds supporting local families in need this Christmas.

Event organiser Chris Ford said the turnout and community support were truly inspiring.

“Seeing the mall come alive like that was incredible,” she said.

“To watch so many people, fill the space with joy, laughter, and Christmas spirit was honestly unbelievable.

“It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do – bringing our community together and creating something truly magical for Edgecumbe.”