ALL Christmas favourites will be performed at the annual Carols by Candlelight on Sunday.
Presented by Ministers’ Fellowship Swan Hill and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Swan Hill, the free community event will be held at Riverside Park’s sound shell stage, starting from 6pm with carols singing from 7.20pm.
Swan Hill Carols by Candlelight committee member Jacqui Price said five local schools would perform on the night.
“For me, seeing the children perform is always a highlight because they get so excited when they get to go up on stage,” Ms Price told The Guardian.
“This year, Swan Hill Specialist School will perform two Christmas carols. This is the first time they’ve been involved.”
Students from Swan Hill Primary School, Lake Boga Primary School, Swan Hill North Primary and Son Centre Christian College will also take to the stage.
Master of ceremonies for the evening will be headspace Swan Hill manager Ian Johansen and Sally Op’t Hoog.
“We thought we’d do it a bit different this year where all the schools perform first and then the choir will follow,” Ms Price said.
“Instead of having someone stand up and do the speaking which can halt the flow of the night, it will be more like a live Christmas story come to life.
“We will have people dress up in costumes and walk through the crowd and we will also have a manger. It should be a great night.”
Activities will include face painting, a Bunnings arts and craft tent, a Harmony Day gratitude tree stand and plenty more.
A free barbecue will be served and soft drinks, water and glow sticks will be available for purchase.
“It’s going to be beautiful weather and we encourage everyone to bring there chairs and a rug and enjoy a community night,” Ms Price said.
“It’s not very often you get to have live entertainment at a beautiful location without costing an arm and a leg.”
Ms Price said the Rotary club had, donated $2500 for this years carols while volunteers from local churches make the night possible.
“It just shows the importance of coming together at this time of year,” she said.
Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh said it was again an honour to support the Carols by Candlelight in Swan Hill.
“This evening brings so many in our community together to bring thanks and bring hope for a prosperous New Year for all,” Mr Walsh said.
“Christmas is a wonderful time of year, bringing friends and family together to celebrate and reflect both the year that was and the year ahead and I hope your Christmas is full of good cheer.”
