The Christmas season shopping spree brought the lively spirit of the Exhibition Centre at Mesqel Square back, encapsulating the intersection of festivity and commerce. Safety was considered paramount with federal police stationed at the entrance conducting thorough checks at the forefront as residents gathered for a festive experience.

The accession to the digital payment system was observed at the gate as two young women, Hiwot Tolosa and Meti Assefa, collected the 100 Br entrance fee, wearing green shirts that made them stand out from a pool of visitors.

Meti was in charge of the online payment system through Telebirr which offers a five percent discount returned as a reward to the user's account. Although Telebirr has taken charge of the entrance fee for the third time, awareness difficulties among visitors remain. She said some visitors assume phone number inquiry is masked with another purpose, with a need for clarification.

Over 3,125 transactions with a 4.5 million Br value were conducted through Telebirr until December 31, 2023. Weekends saw a much better turnout, according to event organiser admin at Ethio telecom, Hailemariam Gesesse, witnessing a staggering 11,000 people on a single day.

Hailemariam said the deal with the vendors offering 250 Br airtime for over 2,500 Br value transactions using Telebirr made a positive impact.

The scene transformed into a visual spectacle passing the entry point. Men with cameras encouraged people to take pictures with the Christmas decorations while visitors enthusiastically tried to capture the festive atmosphere on their phones, with a mesmerising Christmas tree as the backdrop to their moments.

With the traditional music in the background, sellers actively called out customers for an urbanised product. The array of Christmas trees ranged from 5,000 Br to 60,000 Br depending on size and lighting features while a variety of decorations priced from 300 Br to 4,000 Br were displayed.

As vendors and organisers primarily focused on festivity, inflation subtly influenced the economic backdrop of the bazaar.

Naima Asure, a vendor selling women's shoes and clothes, had her permanent shoe store closed. She intended to convert all available items into cash, offering a discount price ranging from 800 Br to 2,000 Br. Naima had leased a 12sqm booth with 100,000 Br for 20 days. Despite a steady flow of visitors, actual sales were falling short of her expectations.

Individuals enthusiastically explored items. Nardos Deliba stood out as she delicately tried on jewellery around her neck from the display. Although she acknowledged the positive aspect of availing diversified items in one spot, the price seemed to be similar to the outside market.

"I haven't found something exceptionally unique," she told Fortune.

The bazaar boasted 350 domestic and 120 international companies, hailing from countries such as India, Sudan, Kenya, and Pakistan. A diverse array of products was on offer, including clothing, handmade crafts, furniture, and sports accessories.

The front booths and prime locations covering nine square meters commanded a rate of approximately 160,000 Br.

Each vendor had a unique story and purpose. It was the first time for Amsale's Gemstone & Jewellery Collection to appear in a bazaar. Behind the standout area is a dynamic Hanna Ademasu. She proudly stated that earrings, priced between 300 Br to 800 Br, are not only intricately designed but also crafted using gemstones sourced from Wello, Gedeo, Gelaneta, Shakiso, and Aksum areas, adding a unique touch to each piece.