Denis Walter carols to launch floating Christmas tree

A STAR-studded line up of entertainers will help Geelong come alive with the magic of Christmas later this month.

The City of Greater Geelong and Geelong’s own Denis Walter are presenting “Christmas Opening Night – Denis Walter Carols by the Bay” at Steampacket

Gardens, which will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Floating Christmas Tree.

Community members across all age groups will be delighted by the free festivities on November 30, which start at 6.30pm with a pre-show ahead of a 7.15pm performance from children’s entertainment group Team Dream.

The main event starts at 8pm, showcasing the dulcet tones of Walter, who will again be joined on stage by touring singer Julie Walter.

Oz Boyz will put a modern twist on the distinct soul-pop sound that is Motown, featuring familiar faces from many of Australia’s touring shows and musicals.

Accordionist Lucy Riddett will perform a repertoire of carols and music from all around the world.

Befitting the occasion, Santa will also make an appearance and get our younger community members into the Christmas spirit.

At 9.15pm, the special night will culminate with the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree as it turns 10 years old.

At 25m tall, the tree features 800 lights, more than 15,000 pixels to create animations and 30 new digital windows.

One lucky child will have the chance to flick the switch and ignite low-level pyrotechnics and the tree’s first sound and light show, which will then run every 15 minutes until midnight.

City of Greater Geelong acting executive director of city life Pam Newton said the city was thrilled to present the 10-year celebration and illumination of its Floating Christmas Tree alongside the annual Denis Walter Carols by the Bay.

“We can’t wait to kickstart the festive season and our Christmas in Geelong program with an all-star list of performers, traditional and modern carols and the lighting of Australia’s biggest Floating Christmas Tree.

“The family friendly ‘Christmas Opening Night – Denis Walter Carols by the Bay’ event will draw community members from across our region and beyond, boosting our local economy and spreading Christmas cheer.

“The lighting of our iconic Floating Christmas Tree will no doubt dazzle the audience and once again be the centrepiece of our 2024 Christmas in Geelong program as it reaches its 10th anniversary.

“Secure your spot with loved ones early at Steampacket Gardens to enjoy the free festivities, sunset and delicious food – it will be an unmissable experience.”

Walter said the November 30 festivities would be the “great uniting of two iconic Christmas Events at our stunning Waterfront”.

“We’ll be festive city central on Saturday November 30 as we welcome Christmas to beautiful Geelong.”

For more information about Christmas Opening Night – Denis Walter Carols by the Bay, head to geelong.link/Christmas-Opening-Night-Denis-Walter