Line-up revealed for Christmas in Geelong

THE City of Greater Geelong has announced the musical lineup for Christmas in Geelong’s opening night, which will be held on November 12.

Local favourites Taylor Henderson and Denis Walter will headline a long list of artists who will take to the stage at the free community event, as the city turns on the lights of the floating Christmas tree.

Angie Hilton and dancers will bring the Christmas groove, Kate Daley and Steve Hobbs will serenade listeners with some all-time favourite Christmas tunes and Geelong’s own “piano man” Andy Pobjoy will accompany Shandelle Cooke to get attendees in the Christmas spirit.

Henderson said he was looking forward to his home crowd putting on their best singing voices to officially start the city’s Christmas celebrations.

“This event means so much to me because Geelong has been my home for my whole life and when it comes to this time of year everyone is so excited.

“We have not been able to connect in the way we are used to for so long and when you can be part of something that brings people together like this it is really special.”

Walter is also thrilled to be performing at the opening night.

“I’m thrilled to be performing at the opening night of Christmas in Geelong and I’m equally excited to also be hosting my own Carols by the Bay event on December 3 at Eastern Beach,” he said.

“Both nights promise to be stunning events.

“As the old song goes, ‘We Need a Little Christmas’, and people are already saying they can’t wait to belt out the favourite Christmas songs.”

Roving entertainment will begin at Steampacket Quay at 5.30pm ahead of a two-hour stage show from 7pm with a Wadawurrung Welcome to Country and performance opening the show.

At 9pm, one lucky young resident will line-up alongside Santa to officially flick the switch on the floating Christmas tree.

After 9pm, celebrations will continue up at City Hall, where Christmas projections will also be turned on for the first time.

Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy said it would be truly wonderful to have Christmas spirit back in the air.

“It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

“Our Christmas in Geelong program has so many activities on offer for all our residents and visitors.

“The lighting of our iconic tree is an eagerly anticipated event and has helped put us on the map as the Christmas capital of Australia.

“Everyone looks forward to the return of the tree to Geelong, but this year’s celebrations will be so much bigger and better now that we can again celebrate together as a community.”

For more information, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/christmas/default.aspx