Share the Surf Coast spirit for a brighter local Christmas

FROM sing-alongs at community carols to Christmas magic in shopping precincts, it’s the perfect time of year to share the Surf Coast spirit.

The Surf Coast Events calendar has a festive feel, featuring community-run carols to be hosted across the shire.

It begins with the Deans Marsh Market and Carols on Sunday, November 24 at Deans Marsh Memorial Reserve.

Other carols events are:

• Carols at Winchelsea, at Winchelsea Primary School (December 7)
• Carols at the Pub, at Aireys Inlet Hotel (December 8)
• Carols on the Lorne, at St Cuthbert’s Uniting Church (December 14), and
• Carols at the Green, at Anglesea Green (December 22).

These popular events offer an opportunity for locals and visitors to come together and celebrate.

This year the combined churches of Torquay have elected not to stage Torquay carols due to volunteer resourcing challenges. Each church will instead stage Christmas carols gatherings at their respective venues, with details to be released soon.

Meanwhile, everyone can share the Surf Coast spirit by shopping locally this festive season.

Numerous local businesses across the shire are starting to share their best Christmas products and specials, while social media is lighting up with locally made products that reflect the heart and soul of the region.

Surf Coast Shire Council has created a share the Surf Coast spirit social media message for businesses.

Look out for the share the Surf Coast spirit Christmas tree across local businesses’ social media accounts and shopfronts.

Torquay’s Gilbert Street will be a hub of Christmas activity on Saturday, December 7 between 10am and 1pm.

Take the kids to say hello and grab a selfie with the roving Santa, soak up the sounds of local buskers, and bring the Christmas shopping list to tick off all the items you need.

When you’re finished, pop by the gift-wrapping station which will have your presents looking pretty for a gold coin donation. There’s also face painting.

Anglesea town centre will join in the festive fun the following weekend on Saturday, December 14 with a similar range of activities.

People can check out Business Anglesea’s fabulous Christmas decorations and listen to carolers outside Oaks Bakery Café between 10am and 1pm.

To stay across the diverse calendar of local events, follow @SurfCoastEvents on social media or save surfcoastevents.com.au to your favourites.

The events action heats up in summer, with various events to choose from. It includes much-loved swims and runs organised by local Surf Life Saving Clubs – a favourite for both locals and visitors.

There is also a wonderful range of community markets to choose from.