Opening night jingles in Geelong

MORE than 18,000 people attended Geelong Waterfront to catch the lights and action of Christmas in Geelong’s opening night.

Last Saturday’s event featured the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree in Steampacket Quay and live entertainment from Denis and Zoe Walter, Kim Cooper, Piano Bar Geelong’s Thomas Currie, Special Geelong Schools Big Band and event hosts Mark and Milly from BayFM.

Children in attendance were lucky enough to meet some of their favourite Christmas characters including Santa and his elves and also got their faces painted.

One lucky local child was given the honour of switching on the Floating Christmas Tree for the first time at 9pm.

Fireworks accompanied the six-minute sound and light show.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said he enjoyed all aspects of the launch event.

“The return of the Geelong Floating Christmas Tree was a spectacular success!

“It was heart-warming to see our community come together and celebrate the joy of the holiday season.

“18,000 people attended the celebration event. It’s a remarkable symbol of unity and holiday spirit.”

The Floating Christmas Tree light and sound shows will be staged each night between 8.30pm and midnight every 15 minutes until January 7.

For the full Christmas in Geelong program, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/christmas/default.aspx