Events calendar for Empangeni and Richards Bay, and surrounds
From Christmas markets to a talent search, festive season food drive for the underprivileged and a boot camp special event, here is a list of upcoming events
THE festive season is almost upon us and there are some fun, exciting and festive events and activities in the coming weeks.
So, grab a pen and diary, and make note of these events and causes taking place across the Zululand region.
FRIDAY, 11 DECEMBER: Carols by candlelight
Shalom Lighthouse in Empangeni is hosting its annual carols by candlelight today (Friday), from 7pm.
Bring your candle and a chair to 105 Rex Henderson Street and join in the singing and festivities.
WEDNESDAY, 16 DECEMBER: The Market Meander 
The Market Meander, which has grown in popularity since the first one in August, returns with a Christmas theme. With stalls located all over Richards Bay, market-goers can wind their way through the suburbs while browsing and buying the many goods on offer. A list of vendors can be obtained from the Market Meander’s Facebook page closer to the date, and all stallholders will display banners outside their venues on the day. From clothing to jewellery, arts and crafts, cakes, other eats and drinks and many other items, the market promises something for everyone and a wonderful opportunity to do some Christmas shopping. For more information, search The Market Meander – Zululand on Facebook.
WEDNESDAY, 16 DECEMBER: Richards Bay SPCA at The Market Meander 
THE Richards Bay SPCA will be on hand at this month’s Market Meander for all your gift wrapping needs. Situated at the Baptist Church in Richards Bay (5 Rooibosrand), from 9am to 4pm, SPCA volunteers will be ready to wrap all those beautiful Christmas gifts you buy at the market. While there is no fixed cost, we ask that you donate to this worthy cause. All funds raised will go to the feeding and housing of dogs and cats in our care.
1-15 DECEMBER: Support the drive-by food drive in Empangeni
WALK in Faith is hosting a pre-festive season drive-by food drive and is appealing to the community to donate non-perishable groceries. The drive will run from 1 to 15 December, and food can be dropped off at 35 Knutzen Street and 35 Neil Armstrong Drive, between 10am and 4pm. Walk in Faith is a NPO that aims to care for vulnerable children and families, with the help and guidance of volunteers. For more information on the food drive, please WhatsApp Linda on 083 4170133.
SATURDAY, 12 DECEMBER: Shape up for the festive season
Shape Up Gym Club will be hosting its last boot camp of the year in the form of a fun event at Port Durnford Beach. The event will be held from 7am to midday on Saturday, 12 December, at a cost of R50 per participant. The day will include a 40 minute run, functional, hilo and box, and instructors Qwabe, Gina, Sizwe, Khaye, Njabulo and Chiya will be on hand to ensure all attendees get the most out of it and have a ball while getting into shape for the festive season. For more information, contact Qwabe on 083 3693578 or Gina on 082 5581462.
SATURDAY, 19 DECEMBER: Mevamhlophe talent search
Are you a poet or musician with dreams of making it big? This is your chance. Get ready for the Mevas All Talent Search to be held in the Mevamhlophe area on Saturday, 19 December. The session is open to musicians in the hip-hop, gospel and kwaito genres. The overall winner will be able to feature award-winning artist Sizwe Sakhe on a track, as well as perform with him in two national concerts, which will include the Bob Marley Celebration. The winner will also be part of a mentorship programme with Zakwe. For more information, contact Sibo Nene on 064 6393316.
SATURDAY, 19 DECEMBER: Richards Bay SPCA market day
