Griffith kicked off the festive season on Friday night in Memorial Park with the official launch of Glow2680.
Glow2680, a Griffith City Council initiative, was held in conjunction with the Rotary Christmas Carnival.
The successful event attracted hundreds of families who enjoyed live entertainment, the chance to win hams and other prizes and a range of kids’ activities such as face painting, jumping castle and bell decorating, before the lights were officially switched on.
Griffith Christmas Working Group Chairperson, Dino Zappacosta said, it was good to Griffith shining so bright.
“It was another fantastic night for our community. To see so many happy, smiling faces out and about was incredible,” he said.
“I think we can all be very proud of the beautiful lights we now have in place each year, our City centre looks amazing. I thank all of those who worked so hard to have everything in place for everyone to enjoy.”
Rotary Club od Griffith representative, David Hammond, said the night was a big success, with many families coming together to enjoy the event.
“We had to cancel our carnival last year due to COVID-19 so it’s wonderful to return in such a big way,” Mr Hammond said.
To the delight of the many small children in attendance, Santa also made a special appearance on the night.
Around 20 businesses along Banna Avenue opened their doors for late-night shopping as part of the Glow2680 Star Shopper competition.
Visitors to Glow2680 this year noticed a new splash of colour as two large trees at either end of the park have had new up-lights installed which cycle through a variety of colours.
Even more fairy lights have been added to the plane trees along Banna Avenue, additional shooting stars throughout the gardens and the popular community Christmas tree, walk-through bauble and twinkling archway are also back.
Festive Christmas banners can be seen along the main street, with carols being played throughout December. The community Christmas tree was installed at Yenda last week and additional shooting stars placed at the Yenda, Hanwood, Beelbangera, Lake Wyangan, Yoogali, Tharbogang, Bilbul and Nericon villages.
Stars can also been seen at many Council facilities dotted around Griffith.
Council is requesting that all residents adopt a Neighbourhood Watch style approach when it comes to the Christmas decorations. If any resident should see any vandalism being caused they should report the incident to the local police or to Council on 1300 176 077.
Council will pay a reward of up to $2,000 to members of the public for information resulting in the conviction against persons damaging Council property – information received will be treated confidentially.
