Christmas carols, performances by bands and general merry-making at the carnival to celebrate Christmas on upscale Park Street, originally planned for four days, could be extended till the New Year gauging the huge response that it has drawn.

Dances, musical performances, Christmas carols, cooking competitions and a vintage car rally were planned for December 16, 18, 21, 23, and 25.

“We have received a huge respose from the people. Foreign tourists have also participated. The crowd is definitely much more than what it was last year. So, we may extend the dates up to January 1,” Tourism Minister Krishnendu Narayan Choudhury told PTI.

The programmes were being held at the Allen Park on Park Street which has been illuminated in its entirety from Chowringee to Mullickbazar with Santa Claus in lights at intervals along the road.

On December 25, singer Usha Uthup will lead an anthem at the carnival. The carnival also features bands like Orient Express, Krosswindz as well as carols by the Calcutta School of Music.

Kolkata airport and some churches have also been illuminated for the festive season.

The West Bengal government has spent about Rs 50 lakh this year on the carnival, with contributions from the Apeejay Surendra Group and others, Choudhury said.

Adding to the cheer, most pubs and night clubs in the metropolis will remain open till the wee hours. The Park, which houses ‘Tantra’ and ‘Someplace Else’, will be open till 4:00 am.

“The extended closing during this period will enhance the spirits and will make Park Street the destination of choice for both international and domestic travellers in South East Asia. We thank the Departments of Tourism and Excise and the Kolkata Police for making this a reality,” said an official spokesperson for The Park.

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