THE HOLIDAYS

West Coast Times, Issue 10671, 27 December 1897, Page 4

THE HOLIDAYS

So far the weather has been fine for the holidays and there is every prospect of its so continuing. Early on Friday morning a goodly number of people were in town j and towards evening the streets were thronged, whilst the shopd appeared to be doing a substantial business. One or two places were decorated for the occasion but on the whole there seemed little attempt at decoration and the ugly gap left by the fire lent a gloomy interest to the proceedings. As the night wore on the streets were serenaded by the Town Band, the Wesleyan Church Orchestra, and a band of singers from the Salvation Army, who honored their especia 1 supporters with carols, hymns, and pieces suitable to the occasion, the music sounding very pretty iv the distance.

Christmas Day was perfect as regards weather and was largely availed of by excursionists and picnic parties, who visited the various scenes of interest in the country. Services were held throughout the day at St Mary's (Catholic) and, All Saints (Anglican) Churches, wh'ch were prettily decorated for the occasion, whilst there was a special musical service at the Wesleyan Church in the evening. During the afternoon the All Saints Church choir went to the Asylum and held a carol service to the great delight of the inmates. They had intended going to the Hospital yesterday, but owing to Mr Watt's funeral it' was found necessary to postpone the visit until Wednesday. Yesterday the day broke delightfully warm and pleasant but before noon a strong wind from the south-west had arisen, which somewhat marred the enjoyment of all out of doors unless in sheltered situations.

To day the festivities may be Baid to have fairly commenced The chief event in town will be the Cycling Club's meeting on Cass Square, for which substantial entries have been received and which promises to attract a large attendance. In the evening the Fire Brigades bazaar will be held. Elaborate arrangements have been made for this and the tree entertainment provided will doubtless attract large audiences. There will also be the performance and dance at Kanieri of which a special notice appears. The chief outside event is the Reefton race meeting) the train arrangements for which are duly notified.