The City of Greater Bendigo’s annual Summer in the Parks program will begin with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rosalind Park on Friday December 3.
The City and Fosterville Goldmine presents the 2021/2022 Summer in the Parks program featuring a popular range of entertaining free events during December, January and February.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the lighting of the Christmas tree in the Piazza in Rosalind Park was an exciting countdown to Christmas and the start of the hugely popular Summer in the Parks program.
“The traditional lighting of the tree marks the start of the festive season,” Cr Metcalf said.
“The tree will be lit at approximately 8.45pm and there will be entertainment for children beforehand starting from 6.30pm onwards, including roving Christmas characters, entertainers from Connected Circus, music and Christmas carols with singer Ryan Gay.
“Unfortunately, closer to Christmas the traditional Christmas Carols in the region organised and run by community groups are not able to take place this year. This is due to the difficulties in meeting health requirements set by State Government to keep community events COVID-safe, including the capability to check vaccination status of all those attending the events and to secure an area.
“After a challenging time for our community due to the pandemic, I am delighted to announce the community will also be able to celebrate New Year’s Eve with our traditional fireworks.
“For the first time the event will take place at the Queen Elizabeth Oval with spectacular firework displays lighting up the sky at 9.15pm and midnight from the poppet head.
“Please make sure your animals and pets are secure and kept safe during the New Year celebrations.
“There’s plenty more fun in January and February with Summer in the Parks program presenting a wide range of live music events and classic movie nights under the stars.
“It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy free entertainment in our beautiful parks, support our local hospitality and dine out or picnic safely with family and friends.”
Booking is not required to attend any of these events, including the Christmas tree light up or the New Year’s Eve fireworks. Everyone over 16 will need to be double vaccinated or have proof of a medical exemption when they scan the Service Victoria QR code and show proof at the gate entrance.
To keep up to date with the Summer in the Parks program of events, activities, times and dates, please visit https://www.bendigosummerintheparks.com/
