A star-studded line up of entertainers will help Geelong come alive with the magic of Christmas on Saturday 30 November at Steampacket Gardens.
The City and Geelong’s own Denis Walter OAM are thrilled to present ‘Christmas Opening Night – Denis Walter Carols by the Bay,’ where we will celebrate the 10th anniversary of our famous Floating Christmas Tree.
Community members across all age groups are set to be delighted by the free festivities, kicking off at 6.30pm with a pre-show ahead of a 7.15pm performance from Team Dream. The kids’ entertainment group will get the party vibe started, while teaching children through song and dance that they can be anything they want to be.
Our main event starts at 8pm, showcasing the dulcet tones of local crooner and entertainer Denis Walter. Performing together once again, touring singer Julie Walter will join Denis on stage for our favourite carols, having performed alongside Lionel Richie and The Pointer Sisters.
Oz Boyz will put a modern twist on the distinct soul-pop sound that is Motown, featuring familiar faces from many of Australia’s touring shows and musicals. Accordionist Lucy Riddett, known for her soulful performances, will take to the stage with a repertoire of carols and music from all around the world.
Of course, Santa will make an appearance and get our younger community members into the Christmas spirit. The event will be carefully guided by Michael Cristiano, a skilled veteran musical director who has worked with Australian and international acts, including The Seekers.
At 9.15pm, this special night will culminate with the lighting of our spectacular Floating Christmas Tree as it turns 10 years old. Measuring in at 25 metres tall, the tree features 800 lights, more than 15,000 pixels to create animations and 30 new digital windows.
One lucky child will have the chance to flick the switch and ignite low-level pyrotechnics and the tree’s first sound and light show. The show will run every 15 minutes until midnight.
Pam Newton, Acting Executive Director City Life
The City is thrilled to present the 10-year celebration and illumination of our Floating Christmas Tree alongside the annual Denis Walter Carols by the Bay.
We can’t wait to kickstart the festive season and our Christmas in Geelong program with an all-star list of performers, traditional and modern carols and the lighting of Australia’s biggest Floating Christmas Tree.
The family friendly ‘Christmas Opening Night – Denis Walter Carols by the Bay’ event will draw community members from across our region and beyond, boosting our local economy and spreading Christmas cheer.
The lighting of our iconic Floating Christmas Tree will no doubt dazzle the audience and once again be the centrepiece of our 2024 Christmas in Geelong program as it reaches its 10th anniversary.
Secure your spot with loved ones early at Steampacket Gardens to enjoy the free festivities, sunset and delicious food – it will be an unmissable experience!
Denis Walter OAM
I see this as a great uniting of two iconic Christmas Events at our stunning Waterfront.
We’ll be festive city central on Saturday November 30 as we welcome Christmas to beautiful Geelong.
Local businesses and community groups hosting a Christmas event are encouraged to to feature in our Christmas in Geelong program.
Whether it’s a market, carols, community gathering or uniquely festive experience, you’ll reach a wider audience of residents and visitors.
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