Twilight Carols, Festive Gallery on Osmond, Movie in the Park, a Spend to Win competition, dazzling decorations, a digital advent calendar and augmented reality activations all form part of the Council’s action packed Christmas celebrations.
Mayor Robert Bria said the festive season has well and truly arrived in the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters with plenty of events, attractions and activities for everyone to enjoy.
“The Council will be home to a dazzling array of lights and magical moments, as well as a program of events suitable for the whole family,” Mayor Bria said.
Despite the cancellation of the iconic Norwood Christmas Pageant for the second year in a row due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is still plenty to see and do.
“Christmas is always a wonderful time in the City and although it looks a little different this year, I believe our community spirit is as strong as ever,” he said.
“This Saturday night, Linde Reserve, Stepney, will be filled with laughter and cheer as people gather to sing all of their favourite festive songs at Twilight Carols.
“The following week, on 11 December, the whole family is invited to Adey Reserve, Firle, to watch the movie, Fred Claus, at our open air cinema.”
Due to limited capacity and in accordance with current State Government restrictions and health guidelines, bookings for Twilight Carols and Movie in the Park are essential and can be made through the Council’s website.
For the second year in a row, the Council has worked closely with local traders to develop a digital Advent Calendar filled with daily special offers and discounts.
The Council has also once again embraced augmented reality technology to bring Santa and his friends to The Parade, Norwood.
Using the magic of technology, Santa and his friends will virtually pop up at various locations by using the free CreativiTek app.
“The Council’s Libraries are also buzzing with Christmas vibes with a full-program of activities and events including a free Christmas movie screening and craft workshops,” he said.
“Residents of Ninth Avenue have once again adorned their homes with annual Christmas light displays — which has become a popular attraction and helped to build a strong community spirit.
“There’s plenty more to explore at the annual Festive Gallery on Osmond which will be complemented by a collection of Norwood Christmas Pageant floats – including the revamped Father Christmas float.
“The Festive Gallery on Osmond activation is a great example of the Council collaborating with local schools and children to create a popular destination for residents and visitors during the festive season.
“However, we know that Christmas can be difficult for some, so the Council is again collecting books as part of the Give the Gift of Reading initiative.”
The community is encouraged to donate books, colouring or activity packs at the Norwood Town Hall and Council Libraries which will be gifted to children in need through Backpacks for SA Kids.
“Help make Christmas memorable for a young person by leaving your unwrapped gift under the Christmas tree at any of the Council’s Libraries or Norwood Town Hall or donate a non-perishable item for the Salvation Army or St Vincent de Paul on The Parade, Norwood.”
Visitors to The Parade are also encouraged to ‘Spend to Win’ in the lead up to Christmas and be in the running to win a wide range of prizes.
“From luxurious gifts, to stunning summer fashion, and premium local produce, The Parade offers the ultimate Christmas shopping experience,” Mayor Bria said.
“By shopping and spending in the precinct, visitors could win $5,000 to spend at local businesses, $5,000 towards a holiday of their choice or $5,000 towards an e-bike. As we prepare to celebrate with family and loved ones, Mayor Robert Bria encourages everyone to continue to show kindness to others.
“This has been a tough year so where possible, take the time to reach out to members of our community experiencing isolation, loneliness and hardship. A smile, a wave or an unexpected helping hand, can make all the difference to someone’s day.”
