Christmas celebrations to take Santa stage
Date published: 27 November 2018
The festive season is here and Townsville City Council is dashing, dancing, and prancing into December with an array of events to help the community Celebrate Christmas Together.
The advent calendar begins with Christmas in the City offering residents a night of free festive entertainment and the official lighting up of the city on December 1.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said Council’s Christmas events are free and family friendly to allow the whole community to celebrate together.
“Christmas in the City is just the first of our family friendly events for the festive period – residents can look forward to celebrating Christmas together with our 25 Days of Discounts, North Pole at Northtown, Festive Friday and much more,” Cr Hill said.
“We know money doesn’t grow on Christmas trees and that’s why we’ve worked with traders in the CBD to offer discounts throughout December and made all our events free to attend.
“Townsville is going to be a tropical wonderland this Christmas; I’m really looking forward to seeing the city light up and come together for an amazing month of festivities.”
Local Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said Council is looking for ways to encourage residents to visit the CBD this Christmas.
“Council has been busy workshopping how we can cater the Christmas festivities for the entire community,” Cr Greaney said.
“Our Christmas in the City, North Pole at Northtown, and Festive Friday events will be fantastic for families looking to keep the kids entertained over the holidays, with Santa on the Sand giving parents a chance to grab that family s-elfie with our tropical Santa and the beautiful Magnetic Island in the background.
“The huge variety of family events will help bring the community into the city centre, and our 25 Days of Discounts will give residents a little incentive to do some of their Christmas shopping in the CBD.
“I’d love to see residents supporting local businesses while they enjoy Council’s Christmas Together celebrations.”
Community and Cultural Development Committee Chair Cr Colleen Doyle said Christmas is a fantastic opportunity to bring the community together and celebrate local talent.
“There are a number of local performers and artists taking part in the celebrations this year – particularly at Christmas in the City,” Cr Doyle said.
“Perc Tucker Regional Gallery will be open on Saturday night with the Artist Markets offering residents the chance to check out works from local artists – there may even be something that will make a perfect gift for a loved one.
“Local band Cranky Pants are also sure to clause a stir with their performances on the night – this is a great opportunity for Townsville to support some wonderful performers and enjoy the free entertainment.”
Flinders Street will be closed to vehicles on Saturday 1 December from 12 noon until 10:30pm for Christmas in the City.
The official celebrations will wrap up with the 25 Days of Discounts coming to an end on Christmas Eve.
