At this time of year it is always nice to see the community gathering at social events as we begin to wind down and reflect on everything that has taken place throughout the past twelve months.
There are many wonderful opportunities for people across Greater Geelong to do this, as we once again stake our claim as the Christmas capital of Australia.
A host of family festivities have returned this year as part of our Christmas program, including the Giant Selfie Trail, free Santa Pet Photos, the Projections on City Hall, Letters to Santa, and the School Christmas Trees in Johnstone Park.
There is also Christmas Music and Storytelling with Granny Lee, and multiple festive morning teas at the Carousel with Santa.
For those looking to take part in their own activities or to find something to do with friends, there are masterclasses, markets and special Piano Bar Christmas events.
The active minded among our community have also got plenty of options during festive period, with golf, swimming, surfing and yoga on offer with a special Christmas twist.
Our program is well and truly under way, having been launched last month at the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree.
The tree stands as a symbol of the Christmas season for our city, helping to bring together our community and fostering a sense of togetherness and joy across the region.
For those who missed the night, and for the 18,000 people who were in attendance, spectacular sound and light shows will be held every night at the tree through to Sunday, 7 January, 2024 commencing at 8.30pm and running until midnight.
Another one of the other great features of the Christmas season is the number of carols sessions that are held across the municipality.
On Saturday, the Denis Walter Carols By The Bay will return, which is always a hugely popular and well attended event along our waterfront.
Locally, the Ocean Grove Carols In The Park show is being held on Sunday, 10 December from 7pm.
This has been such a fun night in the past and I expect this to be the case again this year.
Council is proud to be a major sponsor of Denis Walter Carols By The Bay and the Ocean Grove Carols In The Park, and I look forward to seeing people out in big numbers at both events.
For full details of our Christmas program, visit the Christmas in Geelong website.
