It’s beginning to look and sound like Christmas!

CAROLS, fireworks, and the traditional Christmas tree light up in Rosalind Park are all on Santa’s nice list of things to do this festive season. 

Part of the Summer in the Parks series, Christmas will officially get underway this Friday, 1 December with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Rosalind Park. 

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the events are a great way to enjoy free entertainment with loved ones. 

“The traditional lighting of the tree marks the start of the festive season so it’s an exciting time for the community,” said Cr Metcalf. 

“The Christmas tree will be lit at approximately 8.45pm and there will be entertainment beforehand from 6.30pm onwards, including roving Christmas characters, circus activities for children from Connected Circus, music and Christmas carols with popular local singer and musician Sherri Parry. 

“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.” 

As part of the City-backed festive events there are also community carols planned at several locations across the municipality. 

They include at the Garden for the Future on 2 December, Maiden Gully Recreation Reserve on 3 December, at Axedale Park and also Canterbury Park in Eaglehawk on 10 December, and Barrack Reserve at Heathcote on 16 December. 

The big one, the Rotary Club of Bendigo’s Carols by Candlelight will be at Rosalind Park on Sunday 17 December from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. 

If shopping is more your thing there’s also a Christmas theme at the Community Farmers Market at Dai Gum San on Thursday 21 December 4pm to 7.30pm. 

After all the turkey and presents are done it’s time to farewell 2023 with bang in Rosalind Park. 

“New Year’s Eve will be celebrated with the traditional fireworks at 9.15pm and at midnight from the Poppet Head in Rosalind Park where you can see the sky light up from the Queen Elizabeth Oval,” said Cr Metcalf. 

“It’s important to ensure your animals and pets are secure and kept safe during the New Year celebrations. 

“Please be aware the QEO car park will be closed from 6am Sunday 31 December until 6am Monday 1 January.” 

For more information on Christmas events, and the Summer in the Parks program, visit the City of Bendigo website.