Christmas Brass Bands descended on Nuku'alofa today spreading some festive cheer with lively carols and Tongan songs as shoppers scrambled about picking up last minute items.

The Brass Bands played at popular spots such as the Talamahu market, Tonga Development Bank TDB, and out the front of Molisi to the delight of Tongans and visitors.

Despite the heat, Nuku'alofa was packed, and traffic backed up on the main roads into the Commercial Business District CBD as well as the flea market at Ma'ufanga waterfront.