The popular Back-to-School Night Market scheduled for this Friday has been postponed due the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 lockdown which was extended from Monday.

Samoa Tourism Authority C.E.O. Fa’amatuainu Lenata’i Suifua told the Samoa Observer that the event’s Coordinating Committee decided to postpone the event due to the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

The event is an initiative of the S.T.A. in partnership with the Samoa Hotels Association and was marketed by the authority last week through its social media pages.

“We are excited to announce our first Waterfront Night Market for 2022 is a special one for all families,” reads a post on the S.T.A. Facebook page. “The Back to School Night Market is set for the 28th of January from 3pm-10pm.”

As with other night market events coordinated by the authority, there is a lot of food sold by restaurants and various organisations with many fun activities for the children. Even child vendors make money at the event. 

The children and family-focused event has gained momentum in recent months with families and often Cabinet Ministers seen supporting the event, especially the Minister of Tourism, Toeolesulu Cedric Schuster and the Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Ponifasio who have been consistently attending the event. 

 A live band often plays at the event with people sitting on benches to listen or dance as local artisans sell their craft in the main fale, where tables are placed. The children roam the grounds in safety as police guard the area for the duration of the event.  

Recently a new set up was made at the main fale which included a mini bar, for those who wanted to enjoy alcoholic beverages and nibbles while their children played. 

The night markets are held every month on a Friday night with families turning up to support and enjoy the activities and foods sold at the stalls.