– carrots, seasonings flood the markets this year

WITH just 24 hours to go to Christmas Day, Essequibians are rushing into the markets to do their last-minute Christmas shopping. Many persons were seen Monday morning flocking the stalls at the Anna Regina Market as well as the popular supermarkets.
There has been a noticeable increase this year in fresh seasonings and carrots on the market. Carrots are now going at three packs for $500. Celery and eschalot are also going fast and cheap.

Many seasonal vendors were later in the day seen erecting make-shift tents on the roadside to capitalise on the season. The price of meat and eggs have somehow managed to remain relatively stable for the season. The rush presently is for Christmas Trees, runners, curtains, and eggs.

“I came out to do some last-minute shopping, fuh li’l things like apples, grapes and so on,” said Lalita James, a housewife. “I already dress my home, so the focus right now is on groceries,” she added.
By sundown, the town of Anna Regina was transformed into a veritable shopping mall, with those who have regular day-jobs coming out to do their last-minute shopping. For some strange reason, there has been a noticeable increase this year in toy and fruit vendors.

Some of the more popular businessplaces have also engaged the services of Santa Claus to attract the children. The town also came alive with the beating of drums, courtesy of the masquerade bands.