Traders and buyers in the Tema Metropolis have described patronage of Christmas decorations this year as stable, with many customers spending cautiously on festive items.

A market survey conducted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at the Tema Community One Market and its environs showed that although the festive mood was evident, demand for items such as tinsel, artificial Christmas trees, and decorative headbands remained fairly consistent, with slight fluctuations compared to previous years.

Some traders said the usual rush associated with the Christmas season had been replaced by steady purchases, as customers focused on buying only essential items to maintain the festive tradition.

Rukaya Mohammed, a trader, described business as average, saying that sales were neither poor nor booming.

She noted that customers mainly bought Christmas lights and small artificial trees but were cautious with their spending and often required persuasion before making purchases.

According to her, prices remained moderate, adding that light-up festive headbands were selling at GH¢20, while those without lights cost GH¢15.

She said decorative knockouts were also available, with prices ranging from GH¢1 per piece to GH¢5 for a pack.

Olivia Obesebea, a resident, told the GNA that although she enjoyed decorating her home during Christmas, her busy schedule had limited her ability to do so this year.

She said she did not have enough time to prepare decorations as she normally would.

Andy Appiah, a shopper, said he had limited his purchases despite moderate prices.

He explained that there was no rush this year, and many people, including himself, were reusing old decorations and buying only a few new items, such as lights and headbands, to replace damaged ones.