Feeling festive in the city

In the spirit: Sovereign Hill storytellers and carollers will perform alongside local brass and concert band members to send seasonal sounds through the CBD. Photo: EDWINA WILLIAMS

WITH Christmas Day just over two weeks away, the city is looking and sounding as festive as ever.

The classic floral reindeer, giant shooting star, wreath, bauble, and decorated tree are bringing some seasonal night-time sparkle and daytime colour to Sturt Street for another December.

The City of Ballarat has also commissioned local visual artists Lucy Frith, Sally Gregory, Caroline Keys, Dillon Naylor, Tegan Crosbie, and Margie Balazic in their delivery of a Christmas Art Trail, the Santa’s Workshop display on Albert and Sturt streets, and children’s activities.

Balazic was tasked with creating the dynamic illustrations within Santa’s Workshop.

“This year, we wanted to do something traditional, but very unique for Ballarat,” she said.

“It’s got lots of glitter, movement, fun and activation; elves sewing, scissors moving, and Santa sneaking out from behind the Christmas tree. Of a night time, it’s really beautiful and takes on a whole new dimension.

“Everything’s been created in partnership with local businesses, including General Plastics. My brother-in-law does the electronics, my husband helps with the fabrication, and my children are always part of it behind the scenes.”

Roving performers from the Ballarat Centre of Music and the Arts, Sovereign Hill, Ballarat City Brass Band, Ballarat Memorial Concert Band, and the Creswick Brass Band will entertain residents and visitors in the CBD on weekend evenings this month.

Sovereign Hill’s storytellers will offer songs and tales of the Victorian era on Fridays, while BCMA’s dancing elves and carollers will be out each Saturday and Sunday.

Mayor Cr Daniel Moloney said Ballarat people deserve a sensational summer and joyful Christmas.

“Come to the CBD to revel in the festive spirit of the decorations and activities for all of December, and stay to enjoy a meal at your favourite foodie spot or indulge in a bit of Christmas retail therapy to help bring the sparkle back for our local retailers,” he said.

Visit christmasinballarat.com.au for more information about installation locations, and to follow the Art trail.