The annual Christmas in July celebration is one of the highlights in Credico South Africa’s social calendar. Credico SA flew and chartered all staff, along with their families, from around the country to attend this year’s celebration. For many of the kids attending, it was their first time on an aeroplane, making the trip extra special.
Held on 13 July 2024 at the Oakfield Farm in Muldersdrift — set on 72 acres of gardens, fields, and statuesque trees — this was the perfect location for a day filled with fun, laughter, and much more. The farmhouse itself was converted into a spectacular 80s-themed arcade including neon lights, 80s music and disco balls, and a whopping 14 arcade gaming machines, including pinball, Guitar Hero, Dance Dance Revolution, Dragon Punch, a go-kart simulator, and the classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, a virtual reality setup, and more.
Outdoors, additional entertainment included face painting, treasure hunts, stilt walkers, and a jumping castle, along with a variety of snacks, including popcorn, candyfloss, slush puppies, and ice cream. This farm setting is unique; its easy-going vibe is complimented by the beautiful gardens, exceptional cuisine, and excellent service provided by its friendly staff, making for a perfect setting where we could transition from fun and games inside as well as outside.
This year marked the 10th anniversary of Credico SA’s Christmas in July, a testament to its growing success. What started with just 30 people has now blossomed into a grand celebration with almost 350 attendees. This fantastic day was initiated to bring together the families from home with the family we create at work, to share the love we have for one another with one another, to build on the core values we want to instil within the company, and to have some fun with the kids!
This day always centres around the kids, who quickly meet up with old friends and make new ones as they enjoy all the fun arcades and activities and fill up on the treats. In keeping with tradition, our very own Santa again made a special appearance. It is always wonderful to see the delight on the children’s faces as they go up to receive their gifts and then excitedly rip them open and run around together, playing with their new toys.
After all the excitement, everyone had worked up an appetite, so the kids moved to the “Build a Burger” station to enjoy their lunch while the adults feasted on delicious lamb on a spit. As everyone settled in for lunch, Credico CEO Peter van den Berg welcomed the families and thanked the staff for all of their efforts, which have helped contribute to the company’s success. He also made use of the opportunity to welcome a whopping 27 new staff members who have joined the company since January and congratulated the six persons who received promotions.
He then presented a 5-year service award to Samantha Francis, who received a beautiful Pandora gift, and then awarded flat-screen smart TVs to the 10-year service recipients — Lindie Jordaan, Thabiso Mokhoantle, PC Buitendag, Sonja Ferreira, and Jamie Pillay. This is a testament to Credico’s ability as a company to grow, build, and retain staff. And the gifts were still not done — each family could choose between receiving an air fryer or a pressure cooker as a gift from the company.
After a satisfying lunch and formalities, the kids embarked on an exciting treasure hunt, while the adults indulged in some nostalgic arcade fun. The day wouldn’t be complete without a dash of healthy competition — the ladies showcased their dance moves on Dance Revolution, and the men tested their strength on Dragon Punch. An MTV music quiz on 80’s pop songs proved to be a challenging but nostalgic trip for many. Families had a blast at the graphics booth, and the 360-degree camera was a hit as everyone flaunted their 80s-themed outfits. The Buitendag family’s ensemble was a standout, earning them the title of the best-dressed family. It was indeed a day filled with joy and laughter!
At 5 pm, it was time for some rugby for those who remained. Although the result did not go SA’s way against Ireland, it’s always great to see the World Champions — the Springboks — in an international test.
This family event is an excellent tradition that everyone looks forward to and is always well supported. A wonderful time when families get together, kids form bonds, and partners feel a part of the company. This definitely was a great family day out!