The International Christmas Charity Bazaar 2024: Spreading the Joy of Giving

The International Christmas Charity Bazaar (ICCB), one of Colombo’s most cherished annual events, is back for its 2024 edition. With over 40 years of tradition, the ICCB continues to ring in the festive season with its unique blend of culture, charity, and community spirit. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering attendees an opportunity to shop, celebrate, and contribute to meaningful causes. 

The ICCB 2024 will take place at the Galle Face Hotel on Sunday, November 24th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Renowned for its historic charm, GFH provides a scenic and convenient venue for this festive extravaganza. Attendees can enjoy a vibrant bazaar featuring stalls, activities, and performances, while participants will have the chance to engage with Colombo’s diverse community. 

For families, the event includes a dedicated Kids’ Area, where children can enjoy slime-making, cookie decorating, Christmas crown crafting, spin-the-wheel games, and other holiday-themed activities. After shopping, families can head to the GFH’s specially arranged children’s play area, allowing parents to relax and enjoy brunch with a 15 percent discount for bazaar attendees. 

This year’s ICCB, scheduled a little earlier than usual, is aimed at helping Colombo embrace the festive spirit ahead of time. “We’re thrilled to kick off the season with this vibrant community event,” said Anusha Sethwala and Roshni Mohinani, Co-Chairs of the ICCB Committee. “It’s about coming together, celebrating diversity, and giving back.” 

The ICCB is more than just a festive marketplace; it is a beacon of hope for numerous charitable causes. This year, the committee will continue to support charities like E.A.S.E., which assists children with autism; the Indira Cancer Trust, which focuses on paediatric cancer; Appe Lanka, enabling safe drinking water and providing bicycles for children to access education; Emerge Lanka, which empowers abused women and girls rebuilding their lives; and NEST, which supports children visiting Colombo for hospital care. 

“We also work to help lesser-known projects and ensure that we spread our net as wide as possible,” said Anusha Sethwala. “There are many who are struggling after the economic crisis, and our focus is to continue helping women and children overcome poverty and achieve their true potential in life.” 

In 2023, the ICCB collectively raised over six million rupees for charity, making a significant impact. What sets ICCB apart is its commitment to giving: every rupee raised directly benefits charitable projects. Additionally, each participating stall contributes to their chosen charity, ensuring an even broader reach. 

This year’s Raffle Draw is packed with exciting prizes, including a luxury watch from Chatham Luxury Watches, gourmet hampers, makeup hampers, hotel stays, a coffee machine, and a six-week transformation program; perfect for those with New Year fitness goals. 

Raffle tickets will be available at PR Horton Place, Chatham Luxury Watches at OGF, Seed Café Horton Place, and Grind Café. With over 300 prizes for the lucky dip and a separate kids’ spin-the-wheel game, there’s something for everyone. 

The bazaar will feature twenty countries, including France, India, Germany, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, Thailand, Switzerland, and Italy. Stalls from Germany, Italy, and Thailand will be returning after a long absence, adding fresh excitement to the event. Each country brings unique products, food, and cultural activities, offering attendees a truly global shopping experience. 

Adding to the festive cheer, live performances, including a much-anticipated act by Tanuja, will entertain the crowd. And, of course, Santa Claus and his elf will make an appearance, handing out sweets and posing for photographs with delighted children. 

Since its inception in 1982, when it was founded by the British Women’s Association, the ICCB has grown exponentially. Originally featuring just ten countries, it now includes participants from all over the world, making it a multicultural celebration of giving and unity. Organized by a dedicated committee of local and expatriate women, the ICCB ensures that every cent raised benefits those in need. 

“The International Christmas Charity Bazaar is a celebration of the true spirit of giving and unity,” said Anusha Sethwala. “Each year, we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our community, who come together to make a difference. It’s heart-warming to see the joy this event brings; not just to attendees, but to the charities we support.” 

This year’s ICCB is supported by key sponsors, including the Galle Face Hotel as the venue partner, Anim8 as the print partner, and Wijeya Newspapers Limited as the print and digital media partner. Their contributions, along with those of many other partners, have been instrumental in making this event possible. 

Tickets for the event can be purchased at PR Horton Place, Chatham Luxury Watches at OGF, Seed Café Horton Place, and Grind Café. With limited availability, attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets early. 

With shopping, entertainment, activities, and delicious food, the ICCB 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience for families, friends, and communities alike. Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 24th, and head to the Galle Face Hotel to experience the magic of the International Christmas Charity Bazaar. 

Let’s come together to make this holiday season brighter for all.