Floating Christmas Tree to sail away for another year

CHRISTMAS lovers have one day left to see the Floating Christmas Tree before it sails away from Geelong for another year.

The pinnacle of the Christmas in Geelong program is scheduled to be towed away from Steampacket Quay tomorrow (Thursday, January 8).

Throughout the festive season, thousands of residents and visitors marvelled at the installation, which took centre stage for its 12th consecutive appearance north of Moorabool Street.

City of Greater Geelong mayor, Stretch Kontelj, thanked those who came out and embraced the holiday spirit.

“Thank you to everyone who supported and took part in our Christmas in Geelong program,” he said.

“We hope it brought joy and provided opportunities to spend special time with family, friends and the wider community, however you chose to celebrate.”

The City Hall projections, school-decorated Christmas trees and nativity scene at the Geelong Botanic Gardens have all also been packed away for another year.

The Windows of the World gallery on Yarra Street will remain on display until January 27, as well as the selfie mural at the Carousel throughout the summer school holidays.

Beyond the festive season, the big events will continue.

January will feature the Vic Open Golf Tournament, Festival of Sails and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

The Geelong City Market has also returned to Little Malop Central each Saturday.

Chair of the Geelong major events committee chair, Cr Andrew Katos, said the 2026 calendar was bursting with major events.

“Christmas is a reminder of how important community connection is, and thankfully there are opportunities to get involved year-round in Greater Geelong.

“From marquee sporting events and festivals to concerts and markets, the action doesn’t stop in our region. There’s something to see and do any time of the year.”