Santa has confirmed he will make a special visit to Redlands Coast’s traditional Christmas by Starlight at Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland, on Saturday 16 December and wants to see as many children as possible.

He has given a jolly big thumbs up to the return of the much-loved free carols event, especially this year’s fun program just for the kids.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Santa had been in touch and was hoping to see as many families as possible from the stage at the one-evening event before heading back to the North Pole to get ready for the big day.

“He was thrilled when I told him this year’s event will be extra special and loaded with free kids’ rides, fun entertainment and food stalls,” Cr Williams said.

“There will be a rock climbing wall, inflatable obstacle course, giant slide and face painting.

“We will also have a wonderful line-up of home-grown talent to help us sing our favourite carols and Christmas songs.”

Returning in true Starlight style after the lifting of COVID restrictions, this year’s one-evening event will be free to all with no tickets needed.

The all-age and alcohol-free event, which will begin at 3pm, will be headlined by international singing star Mirusia Louwerse and swing/jazz sensation Craig Martin and The Band , along with Alexa Curtis, Scott Muller, Dakota Striplin, Adam Lopez, Naree Stariha, Liam Waldock, Miss Mandy, Carole Williams, Mama Juju and The Jam Tarts, Redland Rhapsody Chorus, Strictly Dance, Rockit Productions, Redland City Bands, Yulu Buri Ba Dancers of North Stradbroke Island, Minjerribah, Santa and Supa Tony.

The evening will wind up at about 8.30pm with a spectacular firework display by Mr Fireworks, subject to weather and other conditions.

Cr Williams thanked this year’s event sponsors and supporters for joining with Council to put on such an exceptional show.

“The support of Alex Gow Funerals, Bank of Queensland Cleveland, Villawood Properties, Redland City News and BayFM is very much appreciated and ensures we can make this Starlight the best ever,” Cr Williams said.

“They very much reflect our city’s generosity and, in that spirit, Starlight will also offer opportunities to help those who may be finding it hard this Christmas.

“Look out for the Rotary Club of Cleveland charity raffle, which will be drawn on the night.

“There will also be donation buckets at the event in support of local causes such as domestic and family violence support services.”

Limited free parking will be available at the showgrounds.

Translink, in conjunction with Transdev and Queensland Rail, will provide free train travel from Park Road to Cleveland from midday to the last scheduled service on Saturday 16 December.

A free shuttle bus operated by Blue Bus will run from the Cleveland Train Station to the event. Registrations for free public transport tickets are at redland.qld.gov.au/cbs

DETAILS

What: Christmas by Starlight

When: 3pm-8.30pm on Saturday 16 December 2023

Where: Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland

Details: redland.qld.gov.au/cbs. Please note that Christmas by Starlight is an alcohol-free event.