By The City of Greater Bendigo’s annual Summer in the Parks program will begin with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Rosalind Park on Friday, December 3.
The city and Fosterville Goldmine present the 2021/2022 Summer in the Parks program with a popular lineup of fun free events in December, January and February.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the Christmas tree lighting in Rosalind Park Piazza was an exciting countdown to Christmas and the start of the hugely popular Summer in the Parks programme.
“The traditional tree lighting marks the start of the festive season,” said Cr Metcalf.
“The tree will be lit at around 8.45pm and there will be entertainment for children from 6.30pm, including traveling Christmas characters, performers from Connected Circus, music and Christmas carols with singer Ryan Gay.
“Unfortunately, with Christmas approaching, the region’s traditional Christmas carols organized and run by community groups cannot take place this year. This is due to difficulties in meeting health requirements set by the state government to keep community events safe from COVID, including the ability to check the vaccination status of everyone attending events and to secure a zone.
“After a difficult time for our community due to the pandemic, I am delighted to announce that the community will also be able to celebrate the New Year with our traditional fireworks.
“For the first time, the event will take place at the Queen Elizabeth Oval with spectacular fireworks lighting up the sky at 9.15pm and midnight from the doll’s head.
“Please ensure your animals and pets are safe and kept safe during the New Year celebrations.
“There’s a lot more fun in January and February with the Summer in the Parks program featuring a wide range of live music events and classic movie nights under the stars.
“This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy free entertainment in our beautiful parks, support our local hospitality, and safely dine or picnic with your family and friends.”
No reservations are required to attend any of these events, including the Christmas tree lighting or New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Anyone over the age of 16 will need to be double vaccinated or have proof medical exemption when she scans the Service Victoria QR code and presents proof at the door entrance.
To keep up to date with the Summer in the Parks schedule of events, activities, times and dates, please visit https://www.bendigosummerintheparks.com/