Santa will make an early visit to Port Douglas on Friday night as the Christmas on Macrossan event sets the street alight with activity.

The Christmas spirit will be pumping as retail traders, shops, and restaurants along Macrossan Street in Port Douglas keep their doors open for late-night shopping on Friday, 11 December.

There will be live entertainment, Christmas Carols, and Santa and Mrs Claus will make an appearance for free photos with the family, sponsored by LJ Hooker, in the Saltwater Building between 6:00pm and 8:00pm.

Karen Smith-Marron, Secretary for the Douglas Chamber of Commerce, who have worked alongside the Douglas Shire Council to bring the event to life, said this year, more than ever before, local businesses need your support and buying your Christmas presents locally is a simple way to help.

“Our local businesses have had a hard year, especially the Macrossan Street traders who were heavily impacted with a downturn in tourism,” she said.

“The late-night trading is an opportunity for people to bring the family, meet a friend for a meal, browse the shops, do some Christmas shopping and support our local retailers and restaurants.

“We are looking forward to filling the street with music with Alteouise, her students and choir performing and will be joined by Lynda Irvine and her talented students who will perform along the street,” she said.

Classifieds: Douglas Shire Public Notices and Council Notices

Ms Smith-Marron added some cheeky elves will also pop up on Macrossan Street, having fun with the kids and directing people to which shops may be open or have a special deal.

“The Macrossan Street lights will be shining bright for a truly magical feel. We encourage people to buy a voucher or a gift locally this year and keep our money here in the shire and in the pockets of our local families.

“Christmas on Macrossan Street and Late-night trading and next week’s Douglas Street Party are both opportunities for our community to connect and embrace the Christmas Spirit by supporting each other and our local business community.”

Remember to Buy Douglas: Build Douglas. #DoItInDouglas.