Christmas spirit alive in the city

WITH just a handful of sleeps until 25 December, the city is feeling festive, especially after the launch of the Christmas in Ballarat campaign.

The floral reindeer and giant bauble are back in the CBD, and big decorations made by local artists have also been hung on the Christmas tree opposite Myer.

But last week, Saint Nick’s Musical Workshop was officially launched, based in the pop-up garden at Sturt and Albert streets.

The motion activated scene has been created by luthier, or instrument maker, musician, and artist Nick Carpenter.

“I’ve been working on this project for two months,” he said. “With Saint Nick’s Musical Workshop, I’ve taken the theme of Santa’s Workshop and given it a twist, putting musical instruments in there.

“There’s a lot of ukuleles as Santa’s little helpers and a horn section. There’s music and a light display, many different parts, and a lot going on in there.

“You can scan a QR code on the window to see more about the display.”

There’s also a new Christmas Art Trail to be discovered created by author and artist Liv Lorkin.

“I’ve illustrated five murals based on designs from my Christmas in Ballarat children’s book, and they tell a condensed story,” she said.

“A reindeer has eaten the map of Ballarat, and the Wendouree Pals, characters from my books, need to help solve the problem. There’s a celebration at the end.

“If you go to each mural around the CBD, and pick up a map from the town hall, you could win a $500 hamper by answering questions.

“I love the spirit of Christmas… and illustrations are such a wonderful way to express and capture the Ballarat community.”

Live music and roving performers will be heard and seen in the centre of Ballarat throughout December, including the Ballarat City Brass Band, and members of Ballarat Centre for Music and the Arts.

The Christmas Arts trail begins outside Target on Doveton Street.