The well-loved event will be returning Wednesday next week for its 20th year, promising an evening of celebration, entertainment and community connection.
Co-ordinated by a team of local volunteers, the event has become one of the district’s most significant annual gatherings.
The free event is supported by the Waimate District Council, community trusts, local businesses, community organisations and generous individuals.
All donations collected during the event will be given to the Waimate Community Foodbank, in an effort to help support local families during the Christmas season.
This year’s programme features performances by local musicians and singers, complemented by video presentations from several Waimate schools on the big screen.
The organising team was also pleased to welcome back guest performer Swanney from Christchurch, who participated in the early years of the event and would be returning to help celebrate the milestone occasion.
As dusk falls, the programme transitions to the traditional Carols by Candlelight, with 900 candles provided by the Whitehorse Lions.
The evening will conclude with a fireworks display.
A wide range of free activities will also be available for children, teenagers, and families, including large outdoor games, bouncy castles, inflatable obstacle courses, bubble soccer, human foosball, a dedicated under-5s area, Santa’s Grotto (with Santa visiting for an hour early in the evening) and a nativity tent with dress-up costumes for children.
Waimate Rotary will be providing a free sausage sizzle, along with free chips and drinks.
Additional food and coffee options will be available from selected vendors, including Mrs Whippy for those wishing to purchase ice creams or hot drinks.
Attendees are also encouraged to bring a blanket and a picnic tea.
— Allied Media
