Carols by candlelight returns to the Benalla gardens

By Simon Ruppert

Dec 9, 2022

It's back: The Benalla Lions Club Carols by Candlelight returns on December 18. Pictured is the Benalla P-12 College Band at the event in 2019. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Get your singing voices ready, grab a picnic rug and head to the Benalla Gardens on Sunday, December 18 for the return of Carols by Candlelight.

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The popular Christmas event, organised by the Lions Club, has not taken place since 2019.

Organisers are delighted to report that with no restrictions, and sunshine forecast, this year will be the biggest and best yet.

The event, held by the Rotunda, will once again feature all your Christmas favourites, performed by the Rose City Band and the Benalla P-12 College Band.

Local personality Jamie Boatwood will act as emcee for the evening, and Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn and Reverend Stephen McDonald will be on hand to deliver the Christmas messages.

Benalla Lions Club member Peter Poels said Gil Smith would perform on the bagpipes and the guest of honour, Santa Claus, was looking forward to meeting local children.

“I spoke to Santa yesterday and he’s got 500 bags of lollies ready to hand out,” Mr Poels said.

“Carols by Candlelight is always a great a time for the kids.

“They love seeing Santa and they can sit on his knee and get their bag of lollies while Mum or Dad takes a photo.”

The free event is on from 7pm to 10pm, and while the forecast is favourable, the Lions Club has reserved the Town Hall, just in case.