Sleigh bells will soon be ringing at Kilmore’s Hudson Park with this year’s community Christmas carols, set for the evening of December 16.
Mitchell Shire Council had previously funded the carols, but this year’s sponsorship has been taken over by the Bendigo Bank of Wallan, Kilmore and Broadford, who will deliver the show with BGCaptivate, formerly known as BGGROUPAU.
Wallan Chamber of Commerce and NVC Precast are also supporting the event, which starts at 6pm.
Mitchell Shire primary schools and dancers will be featured as some of the pre-show entertainment, while residents can also enjoy food trucks, market stalls, petting zoos and pony rides.
Several artists from within and outside the shire, including Wallan’s Kaitlyn Thomas, Swimstate band member Beaumont Farrell, Shanae Watson and Briannah Borg will perform Christmas tunes at 7.30pm.
Santa will also visit the park to make the evening a joyful celebration.
BGCaptivate founder Benjamin Gregory, who will em cee the carols, said he looked forward to celebrating his favourite time of year with the rest of the community.
“With the current cost-of-living, it’s important to provide opportunities to local community members that are free and that they come and gather with their family and friends and celebrate the festive season,” he said.
“Christmas is the season of giving, building communities and coming together and we thought this is a beautiful opportunity for all the residents of Mitchell Shire and beyond to come, to celebrate, and support local market stalls and local businesses.”
Mr Gregory said large crowd of attendees were expected at the carols and encouraged residents to arrive early to mark a spot for their small marquees, umbrellas and picnic mats.
He also encouraged residents to organise transport in advance due to limited parking around the park.
The carols will be from 6pm on Saturday, December 16 at Hudson Park.
