IT could have been carnival time in Salisbury last night with bands, fashion shows, goo-go dancers and drum majorettes arranged by city centre stores to boost business during the late shopping hours.
Even the storm which broke over the city shortly after 7pm did not dampen the enthusiasm of thousands of Christmas shoppers who jostled their way from the store, laden with parcels and weary children.
The special shopping hours - from 6.30pm to 9pm - started with the arrival of Father Christmas in First Street, escorted by the Mount Pleasant High School drum majorettes and the Churchill pipe band.
Events and attractions in stores included three bands, a fashion show, go-go girls, films, puppets, tombola, discotheques, a ventriloquist and demonstrations by artists, wood carvers and potters. Mr Viv Wilson of Chipangali Animal Orphanage - plus two lion cubs - autographed copies of his book, Orphans of the Wild.
Some of the hardest-worked men last night were the Father Christmases, who were ho-hoing and handing out presents to wide-eyed children as fast as they could.
Lessons for today
- Christmas in Zimbabwe is celebrated with a blend of traditional customs and modern practices. Families often gather for large meals, attend church services, and exchange gifts.
- Christmas shopping in 1977 was part of a broader effort to stimulate local business during the holiday shopping season. It was particularly significant given the socio-political climate of Rhodesia at the time, which was marked by conflict and unrest due to the ongoing liberation struggle against colonial rule.
- The late-night shopping initiative was a strategic move by local businesses to boost sales during what is typically a busy retail period leading up to Christmas.
- Overall, the events reflect both an attempt to enhance economic activity through festive celebrations and an illustration of community resilience in the face of adversity.
- Today Zimbabwe faces significant economic challenges. In light of the ongoing economic situation, consumer behaviour during Christmas shopping is expected to be cautious. Many families prioritise essential goods over luxury items.
- With the increasing penetration of mobile technology and internet access in urban areas, online shopping is becoming more prevalent. E-commerce platforms may provide an alternative for consumers looking for convenience or specific products not available locally.
