Over 100 members and guests kicked off the holiday season early at the ECCT’s annual Christmas lunch, held right after the chamber’s AGM.

Guests arriving early were able to stave off winter chills with a warm cup of mulled wine (known as “Glühwein” to Germans & Austrians and “Glögg” in Scandinavian countries), accompanied by ginger biscuits. Everyone then sat down to a feast of traditional European festive dishes.

Later, to get members in the Christmas spirit, the Taipei European School’s junior choir and musicians took to the stage to perform some lively Christmas songs.

Just as the choir were leaving the stage, Saint Nicholas (also known in some parts as Santa Claus or Father Christmas) entered the room ringing his bell and carrying a large bag full of gifts. Saint Nic’ told the audience that he had arrived from Lapland, this time in a new EV sleigh, which was great but lacking places to recharge on the island.

Saint Nic’ presided over an elaborate ribbon pulling game to determine a lucky Christmas gift winner from among the guests. He also presented a special gift to Francine Wu, long-time ECCT director and co-chair of the Asset Management committee, who is retiring. Santa wished Francine a happy retirement. For Santa and his reindeer, though, there is still plenty of work to do before Christmas.