San Fernando witnessed a remarkable surge in pre-Christmas commercial activity on December 19th as bustling crowds and congested vehicular traffic enveloped the city’s primary commercial corridors. High Street, St James Street, and Mucurapo Street transformed into vibrant hubs of seasonal commerce, marking the peak of holiday shopping enthusiasm.
Kiran Singh, President of the Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed considerable satisfaction with the commercial turnout, observing a consistent escalation in shopper volume throughout the week. “While serious shopping commenced on Monday, today has demonstrated the highest concentration of shoppers,” Singh remarked, attributing the increased activity to post-school closures on December 12th and subsequent salary disbursements.
The commercial landscape featured extensive vendor participation complemented by visible police patrols under the supervision of Snr Supt Cecil Santana, implementing proactive security measures to regulate traffic flow and prevent criminal incidents. With five remaining shopping days preceding Christmas, city merchants anticipate sustained commercial momentum leading to a robust seasonal conclusion.
Retail establishments are projected to maintain extended operating hours until approximately 7-8 PM through Christmas Eve, with select stores planning Boxing Day operations to capitalize on traditional post-holiday sales. The cosmetology sector similarly prepares for expanded service hours, offering seasonal treatments including manicures and pedicures to meet elevated consumer demand.
Shoppers demonstrated targeted purchasing behavior, with numerous consumers acquiring toys from Jay’s Toy Box on St James Street alongside household items and curtains. The Carlton Centre enhanced the festive atmosphere through live parang performances by 1990 The Band featuring Alana Fuentes, providing musical entertainment that enriched the holiday shopping experience.
Singh reinforced consumer confidence by emphasizing San Fernando’s historical safety record, assuring continued security throughout the holiday period while encouraging sustained commercial participation.