Christmas fun in the Gardens

Mayor Trent Sullivan and Santa. (Supplied)

This December the City of Greater Geelong will host its first Christmas in the Gardens at the Geelong Botanic Gardens.

The free family event, held on Saturday, December 16 between 10am and 4pm, will offer over 20 different events and activities throughout the day.

Santa will be on hand for photos, circus performer Nic Daicomb will be roving throughout the day, while people can engage in scavenger hunting, face painting, Christmas sand art and giant games.

The day will also feature two showings of the 2006 Christmas comedy film Deck the Halls.

Councillor Elise Wilkinson, deputy chair of the Active Space portfolio, said the event was sure to be a drawcard for young and old.

“In the heart of Geelong, Christmas in the Gardens is an experience designed to bring families together in the warmth of Christmas cheer,” Councillor Wilkinson said.

“From the sparkle of face painting to the screening of the Christmas comedy classic movie

Deck the Halls. Find a comfy spot on the lawn and soak in the experience.”

Mayor Trent Sullivan said he was looking forward to a “magical day”.

“We’ve got so many great Christmas activities planned, including sand art, craft, stencilling, leaf rubbing, planting and decorating your own pot plant, roving circus performances, music and storytelling with Granny Lee and more,” he said.

“We know Christmas can be expensive, so we’ve created this day as a free opportunity for all our community to enjoy.”

Christmas in the Gardens is free and bookings are not required. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visit geelong.link/christmasingardens for more information.