Carols By Candlelight headline act announced

Homegrown singing sensation Trent Bell will lead a stellar concert line up at this year’s Carols By Candlelight.

The family-friendly event will be back at Riverway Oval on Sunday December 12 with food stalls, arts and craft workshops, amusement rides, and a special visit from Santa Claus.

Community and Cultural Development Committee chairperson Ann-Maree Greaney said the event was focusing on local talent this year.

“It’s no secret that Townsville has some extraordinary musical talent, and we’re thrilled to be bringing that talent centre stage for our Carols By Candlelight event at Riverway Oval,” Cr Greaney said.

“I know that all of Townsville will be excited to have Trent Bell on stage for this year’s carols. Trent is well-known for his music career, which has included stints on The Voice and The X Factor.

“We will also be welcoming singing groups and dancing troupes from across the city to help spread Christmas cheer, with an Auslan interpreter on stage so that everyone can celebrate the festive season together.”

Mr Bell said he was thrilled to be asked to headline this year’s Carols By Candlelight.

“It's always been a night where everyone can let go and sing as loud as they want. It's a feeling like no other being on the Carols stage,” he said.

“Townsville has supported and been a part of my career from the get go. So to be on a stage entertaining thousands of people in a city I grew up in … what beats that? It means the world.

“I can't wait to see everyone there getting into the Christmas spirit, especially after the couple of years Townsville and North Queensland has been through. It's well deserved.”

Cr Greaney said the event was a great low-cost day out for the whole family.

“Grab a picnic blanket and make the most of the day out with the kids and your loved ones,” she said.

“We’ll have food trucks at Riverway Oval, kids’ rides, arts and crafts workshops and so much more excitement as the day goes on. There will be something for everyone, whether you want to belt out your favourite Christmas tunes or sit back and enjoy the jolly atmosphere.

“We’ll also have flame-safe candles available to buy at the event.”

Carols By Candlelight will run from 5pm at Riverway Oval. Entry is free.

TIPS FOR CAROLS

FOOD

Pop Up Food Trucks will be onsite during this event offering a wide range of food and beverage options. Patrons are also permitted to bring their own food and drinks, however no glass or alcohol is permitted.

SEATING

Under the big top tent will be divided into two zones, a blanket only area and a zone for chair seating. All prams in the blanket area must be collapsed flat.

FLAME SAFE CANDLE

Available on-site.

EFTPOS

ATM’s will be available onsite on the night. Please bring small change where possible.

POP-UP COVID VACCINATING CLINIC

Townsville Hospital and Health Service and Queensland Health will be operating a COVID vaccination clinic during the event.

KIDZ ID ALERT

Queensland Police Service will operate the Kidz Alert ID tent. This is a free service manned by local police officers and recruits and will aid in reuniting lost children with their parents. They will be easy to spot in their bright red marquee.