Thousands to attend council's Carols by Candlelight

Coast families are expected to turn out in force again this year for the free Carols by Candlelight events planned for Cotton Tree and Caloundra just before Christmas.

Sunshine Coast Council is holding Carols at Cotton Tree Park in Maroochydore on Saturday 19 December and Carols on Kings at Kings Beach Amphitheatre in Caloundra the following evening, Sunday 20 December.

Both will end with a fireworks display.

In recent years, up to 10,000 people have attended each event - proving the popularity of celebrating Christmas on the Coast under the stars.

Commencing at 6.30pm, Carols is proudly presented by the Sunshine Coast Council's Events and Celebrations unit with a focus on fun and entertainment for all ages. Sunshine Coast Council Community Events Manager Michael Bloyce encourages residents to come along and join in the festivities.

"Carols is always a popular event for everyone.  It's a tremendous opportunity for people to bring the whole family and sing along to their favourite Christmas carols," Mr Bloyce said.  

"The Christmas spirit really comes alive at these events and the kids especially love it when Santa makes his appearance.

"Council is pleased to present these special nights for the community.

The program is full of festive cheer and an impressive line-up of talent."

Be sure to bring a blanket and your picnic basket because from 5.30pm children can be entertained by roving performers including Mr Magic, Ned Nucklehead and Domino the Christmas Elf.

Especially for the kiddies, the Silly Billies will present Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

That's not all on the entertainment program though - there will be great performances throughout the night by acts such as:

*    Soloists Liza Beamish (soprano) and Johhny Peek (tenor)
*    New World Rhythm Choir (directed by Brian Martin)
*    The Pacific Chamber Orchestra (conducted by Barrie Gott)
*    Golden Beach State School and Dance School
*    Tahlia Bland (piano)
*    Wes Taylor Duo
*    SC Performing Arts Centre Dance Troupe

and community carol singing lead by:

*    Caloundra Chorale (Kings Beach)
*    Oriana Concert Choir (Cotton Tree)

And to top the night off, a great Fireworks Show will end the evening with a bang.

Food, drinks and glow products will be available from local community organisations. Carols is an alcohol and glass free event.

There is a free bus service for Carols on Kings with services running to and from Caloundra Bus Interchange in Cooma Terrace from 3.30pm to 9.30pm (on 20 December only).

Pet owners in the vicinity of both carols events are advised that the noise of fireworks can cause pets to become agitated. Council reminds owners to ensure pets are safe and secure for the duration of the event.

Carols at Cotton Tree and Carols on Kings are proudly supported by Sunshine Coast Council.

Carols at Cotton Tree
Saturday 19 December, 6.30pm
Cotton Tree Park, Maroochydore

and

Carols on Kings
Sunday 20 December, 6.30pm
Kings Beach, Caloundra