Summer events program gets sparkling tonight

THE imposing Christmas tree that graces the View Street entrance to Rosalind Park every year will be lit up tonight just after sunset, signalling the beginning of the City of Greater Bendigo’s annual Summer in the Parks initiative.

The program will feature a bunch of free or low-cost events and activities during December, January and February in the municipality’s parks as well as Hargreaves Mall.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the lighting of the tree marks the start of the festive season for Bendigo and is an exciting time for the community.

“The Christmas tree will be lit at approximately 8.45pm and there will be entertainment beforehand from 6.30pm onwards, including roving Christmas characters, entertainers and activities from Wild Play Co and Christmas carols with singer Tara Muscatello,” she said.

“The tree lights can be viewed every night in December and the Bendigo letters will also be given a new Christmas makeover, so the Piazza will look very festive for photo opportunities during the day and at night.

“I am also delighted that closer to Christmas the Summer in the Parks program includes many popular festive events across the region including carols in our beautiful parks.”

Carols lovers will in fact be pleased to know that there are not one but five community carols evenings this year, starting off with Epsom on Saturday 7 December from 5pm at the spacious Garden for the Future.

Eaglehawk and Axedale will follow on Sunday 8 December, then Marong on Sunday 15 December.

The Rotary Club of Bendigo Carols by Candlelight rounds things out from 6.30pm to 10.30pm on Sunday 22 December in Rosalind Park.

For a full schedule of events and activities, including what’s happening around town on New Year’s Eve, visit the Summer in the Parks website.