New look carols for 2020 more inclusive for community

Christmas is back with a new look in 2020 with the annual Carols by Candlelight going online to be enjoyed from the comfort of home lounge rooms, neighbourhood get togethers and community group gatherings.

Carols @ Home is a COVID safe digital offering of showcasing a best of carols from over the years, hosted by Pricey with Christmas messages and a recorded performance from the 1RAR band.

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said Council had been forced to think outside the box this year and was proud to be able to deliver a version of Carols still.

“Our staff have been working really hard to make sure that Christmas is still the magical time of the year that we all look forward too,” Cr Hill said.

“Carols @ Home will be a culmination of our previous Carols by Candlelight events, available online and from the comfort of our own lounge rooms and community spaces in our favourite Christmas pyjamas or outfits.

“We know that Carols is one of the communities most loved events and due to COVID-19 Council wasn’t going to be able to deliver the event on a scale that all residents love.

“The new look Carols joins our Skype with Santa event as another innovative way to share the Christmas joy and we’re hopeful Carols can return in the traditional format next year.”

Carols @ Home will launch on the Council website on 6 December from 6.30pm and will also stream on Triple M on the night.

Community groups and organisations who would like to use the production for their own Christmas gatherings are encouraged to contact Council.

Cr Hill said residents will be able to enjoy the show as many times as they like and whenever they like.

“The recording of our Carols @ Home event will go live on 6 December and will remain on our website to watch whenever or however many times as you like,” she said.

“We’ve also made sure that it is subtitled so every community member can watch with ease.”

For more information about Christmas in 2020, visit Christmas Together 2020.