The gladness and enjoyment hovering in the hearts of many tell the story of how grateful people are to witness the end of 2023 and the hope of seeing another year with much expectation.
Despite many complaints about economic challenges this year, December 22 to 26 saw many Ghanaians and diasporans enjoying the full flair of Christmas with happiness.
Venues like the Accra Sports Stadium and Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) were filled with exciting music from award-winning artistes during the Christmas season.
In a night that will undoubtedly go down in music history as one of the best, Stonebwoy on Friday, December 22, mesmerized a colossal crowd at the 40,000-capacity Accra Sports Stadium during the star-studded 2023 edition of the BHIM Festival, which featured not only his stellar performance but also an array of topnotch guest artists from the Caribbean.
Similarly, many loved ones joined Afua Asantewaa Aduonum, the lady attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon by an individual from December 24 to December 27, to cheer and show their love and admiration for her as they celebrated the festive season as well.
The yuletide has not yet ended, and below are some ways you can create a lasting memory individually or with your loved ones.
- Shows and events
From now till early January 2024, there will be many events organized by musicians, churches, and other organizations across the country.
To have a feel of the festive season, the array of events captured under the ‘December in Ghana’ calendar put together by the Ghana Tourism Authority will be perfect locations to have fun.
Churches and other religious bodies are not left out, as shows surrounding the birth of Christ will be rife.
The annual carols night and lessons from the Bible will also feature prominently during the period.
- Beaches
The beach is another perfect destination for revellers who want to have a feel of nature.
Nearly all coastal towns are adorned with beautiful beaches that can serve as a relaxation point for individuals, families or friends.
Life is too short to stay at home feeling lonely during the New Year celebration; therefore, partner with loved ones to create a lasting moment as the world climaxes the festive season.
- Tourist sites
The festive season is an ideal time to go sightseeing.
Several efforts have been made to improve tourist sites across the country, with the recent renovation of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum being one of the key moves to boost tourism.
The yuletide season presents a perfect time to learn more about the country’s history.
There are many places to visit, including the Kintampo Waterfalls, Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, Mole National Park, and The Kakum National Park.
- Family funfair
For many families, the season is the perfect opportunity to bond after a busy year.
During this time, many Ghanaians abroad return home, and those in the big cities travel to their villages in different parts of the country.
This is the time for networking, resolving family disputes and interaction that brings joy to the faces of the old and the young.
Barbecues and parties are very common, and the time spent with family is one of the best ways to spend Christmas and New Year.
- Volunteerism
Aside from enjoying the festive season with close families, you can create memories by engaging in philanthropic and voluntary activities to help others.
Helping the needy, donations to orphanages, community projects, and other engagements not only put smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries but also a sense of fulfilment for the philanthropists.
- Cinema movies
It should not always be Netflix and chill, as it is also important to catch some air.
Cinemas are perfect for creating lasting memories and engaging in fun activities together.
Most cinemas are likely to have all the latest movies.
Never feel lonely at home, for there are many places you can visit for entertainment.
- Theatre plays
Drama and plays seem to have taken a nosedive over the years.
However, a revamp of the sector has seen renewed energy and interest from the public.
Most plays carry a sense of humour, and the audience can never leave the venue without smiles.
Story ideas from James Ebo Whyte, Latif Abubakar, Mr Abeiku Sagoe and others will always make you visit the National Theater repeatedly.
Nice story I will try and patronize it with my family