We decided to share this announcement with readers of BAHAMAS CHRONICLE, which has a huge following among the Bahamian diaspora across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean.
Freeport, Grand Bahama – December 5, 2025 – Downtown Freeport was standing-room-only on Friday, November 28, as the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) hosted the inaugural “Christmas in the City” Downtown Christmas Fair in Independence Square (formerly Churchill Square), transforming the city’s core into a festive, family-focused hub and signaling renewed confidence in the island’s economic and cultural hub.
The event brought together scores of residents, families, and young people to enjoy a full evening of live performances, local cuisine, Christmas shopping, and children’s activities. From the St. George’s High School Pop Band, church choirs and saxophonists, to soloist Tony Lowe performing seasonal favorites, the square pulsed with music, laughter, and holiday spirit.
On the ground, downtown businesses and pop-up entrepreneurs showcased a diverse range of products and flavors. Local vendor Jamal Rolle, owner of Livity delighted patrons with healthy fruit smoothies, while Shea’s Kitchen and Shape Your Crepe served up crowd-pleasing comfort food from their daily menus. Toy and gift vendors across the downtown corridor offered everything from classic children’s toys to tech gadgets and accessories, giving parents and families a one-stop shop for Christmas gifts. Tim and Rebecca Tibbits, owners of Flying Fish Gastro Bar at Port Lucaya, introduced mulled wine to many first-time tasters, quickly becoming one of the evening’s most talked-about experiences.
“When Independence Square is filled to capacity with families, entrepreneurs, and performers, it tells us a powerful story, that Downtown Freeport is open for business, for all to enjoy,” said Ian Rolle, President of GBPA. “Events like Christmas in the City are more than seasonal celebrations; they become economic engines that drive foot traffic, strengthen small businesses, and rebuild confidence in our city’s core. Paired with our Flash Friday campaign, this is how we turn holiday cheer into real commercial opportunity for our licensees.”
The Christmas in the City Downtown Fair served as the evening capstone to Flash Friday, GBPA’s flagship promotional initiative encouraging residents to “buy local and shop at home” during the peak holiday shopping period. Originally launched following Hurricane Matthew in 2016 to support struggling businesses, Flash Friday has evolved into a citywide platform that now anchors community-focused events like Christmas in the City.
“Our vision was to curate a downtown experience where you could feel the pulse of Grand Bahama, its creativity, its resilience, and a sense of community, all in one space,” said Fatima Zahra-Kaboub, Event Lead for Christmas in the City and Member of the Downtown Association, Special Project. “We wanted Independence Square to feel like a festive communal space: safe, vibrant, and welcoming to everyone. The response from vendors, performers, and families shows that Grand Bahama is ready for this next chapter of downtown’s revitalization.”
The event was delivered through robust public–private collaboration. GBPA expressed appreciation to the Downtown Freeport Business Association (DFBA) and the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce for their partnership and support. Special recognition was given to Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce President, Mr. Dillon Knowles, who brought brief remarks, underscoring the importance of sustained community support for local enterprises and the broader business ecosystem.
GBPA also extended heartfelt thanks to the full organizing team, whose tireless efforts and creative direction helped reposition Downtown Freeport as a safe, engaging, and family-friendly destination for residents and visitors alike.
From children clutching goodie bags and candies, to adults discovering new local brands and culinary favorites, the Christmas in the City Downtown Fair delivered beyond just a festive evening, but a signal of momentum for Grand Bahama’s ongoing revitalization story.
As Freeport celebrates 70 years, the first-ever “Christmas in the City” underscores the GBPA’s dedication to fostering unity, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating memorable experiences for Grand Bahamians.
With overwhelming demand and positive feedback from vendors, performers, and patrons, GBPA anticipates Christmas in the City becoming an annual marquee event on the Grand Bahama holiday calendar.
Residents are encouraged to continue the spirit of the season by supporting local businesses throughout the holidays and beyond.
