Shoppers were given an extra day to snap up Christmas bargains when Court Street retailers opened their doors for business this afternoon.

The street was closed off to traffic as more than 50 retailers and market traders set out their stalls.

The event, sponsored by the Corporation of Hamilton and the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, is seen as a boon for businesses during the current economic climate.

Sunday shopping fairs were introduced last year in a drive to promote the North Hamilton street as a prime retail location.

Charmaine Simmons, the sales manager for Connections Boutique, summed up the positive mood that the afternoon brought.

“It’s an excellent crowd. It’s an extra day for our business to sell, and an extra day to give people the chance to come out and buy.

“And no – I don’t mind working the extra day, I’m loving it.”

Christmas music pumped out through a PA system, while additional entertainment was provided by dancers from the Jackson School of Performing Arts and the Bermuda Long Riders Motorcycle Club.

Shalane Dill, founder of Classy Cookies & Gourmet Treats, was taking full advantage of the crowds.

Ms Dill said: “It’s been fun. There’s been a good energy – people are coming out and enjoying the holiday spirit – a good vibe and good community spirit.

“Events like these show that there is support in the community for small businesses like mine. I run a home company. I was inspired to start it through my young son because I wanted him to eat the right things.

“Events like today give me an opportunity to put myself out there and get my company name known.”

Gary Augustus, who organised the initiative, was pleased with the day’s turnout.

“It’s been great – again. Good for business, good for people, good for the community.

“It’s becoming more and more popular. We have more traders, and more and more people coming to the event.”

Mr Augustus said that there were plans to extend the market next year.

“To put it on every single Sunday might be too much – we’re all busy,” he said.

“But we also need to change the mentality. When people think of retail – particularly tourists – they’re thinking Reid Street and Front Street. Everything happens around the flagpole.

“But there’s plenty happening around here and we want to bring that action, that attention, to this part of town.”