New community events to replace 2020 Christmas Carols in the Park

Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park will not go ahead in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, with the funding diverted into a new series of fun festivals and events to bring our community together and stimulate the local economy.

The new events are planned to follow the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Bayside Mayor, Cr Clarke Martin said that the decision to cancel this year’s Carols was regretful but necessary due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Christmas Carols in the Park has been an annual highlight on our community’s calendar for 21 years, a time to come together with family and friends and celebrate,” Cr Martin said.

“Carols generally attracts 18,000-20,000 visitors and we are determined to reach that number of people through our exciting new event series. The new events will take place in shopping centres across the municipality and other popular places. Like everything else we need to come up with ways of doing things differently,” Cr Martin said.

“The funding from Christmas Carols will also assist us to create new spaces and activations in Bayside shopping villages and open spaces where our community can come together safely, adhering to gathering and physical distancing requirements once COVID-19 restrictions ease.

“Whilst it is disappointing that we won’t be gathering at Dendy Park for Carols this year, the health and safety of our community must be our top priority during the pandemic,” Cr Martin said.

Christmas Carols in the Park has a budget of approximately $190,000. The event is a much loved family friendly community celebration featuring a diverse music program of carols performed by local artists, community choir and primary schools.