Community
Gearing up for Christmas on the Waterfront & Fireworks for Savaii
By Lagi Keresoma
APIA, SAMOA – 16 DECEMBER 2022: A parade on Beach Road will kick start the Christmas on the Apia Waterfront event on 21 December and will culminate with a fireworks display on 31 December 2022 to welcome the New Year.
The event was confirmed by members of the Christmas Program Committee.
The parade will start from the Vaisigano Bridge towards the Eleelefou where the program will be officially opened, then followed by switching on the Christmas lights sponsored by the Latter Day Saints; then live entertainment which will be featured on 22 and 23 December.
Then on 31 December, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa will deliver her New Years message to be followed by a fireworks display from on-board the Fotu o Samoa vessel inside the Matautu wharf.
The Christmas Program Committee also confirmed the Fireworks Display for the first time on the big island of Savaii.
“We decided to use Amoa at Siufaga for the fireworks because of the big hub and the view from other part of the island,” said committee member Fanaea Natu Taulealo.
Christmas on the Waterfront Committee members – Tanuvasa Petone Mauga (Fire & Emergency Services Authority), Fanaea Natu Taulealo (Samoa Tourism Authority) and Deputy Police Commissioner, Papalii Monalisa Keti.
The Christmas on the Waterfront is part of the 60th Anniversary of Samoa’s Independence celebrations and the Fire & Emergency Services Authority (FESA) will also have a Santa Claus on hand to entertain the children.
Whilst Samoa will be in a festive season mood, the Deputy Police Commissioner Papalii Monalisa Keti cautioned the public about certain areas of concern.
Top priority is public safety and police will enforce the law on drinking on public areas and driving under the influence of alcohol.
She also warned the public about bamboo guns – Faga Ofe and urged the public to report if anyone uses them.
“Priority is safety and security of the people and assets in public areas,” she said.
This year’s event targets a festive and community spirit and is expected to draw in crowds to the various stalls and the live entertainments lined up for the three days event.
