Christmas is coming early

Floating Christmas Tree is towed to Geelong Waterfront. Photo courtesy Pam Hutchinson.

City of Greater Geelong, Victoria, will deliver an expanded program of free events and activities this year, including a Giant Christmas Selfie Trail across 22 destinations, to launch Christmas and support the local economy.

Deputy Mayor, Trent Sullivan, said, “With an iconic Christmas tree that illuminates Corio Bay, the City of Greater Geelong is Victoria’s home of Christmas this holiday season.

“It has been a tough year for residents and businesses so we’re lighting the way with a program of free events and activities so that everyone can experience the joy of Christmas.

“Our Christmas program provides an economic benefit to the region, boosts Geelong’s profile and spreads pride and Christmas cheer throughout the community.

“The Geelong region will be filled with music, shopping, projections, decorations and activity as we help residents and businesses to get into the Christmas spirit.”

Councillor, Eddy Kontelj said, “Given the challenging pandemic environment we have all been living through, we really want to create some positivity now, whilst also providing the community, including families and children, with something to look forward to and get excited about.

“From watching street performers or touring the selfie trail, we want community members to have fun while supporting local jobs and businesses. Christmas is a great time to dine out with friends or bring a small team together while supporting the bars, cafes and restaurants that have been doing it tough.”

Councillor, Kylie Grzybek said the Giant Christmas Selfie Trail would feature 22 destinations across the region, including five interactive artworks across Corio, North Geelong, and Norlane.

“We’re creating experiences that are perfect for family photos and selfies. There will be Candy Canes, a Surfing Santa and of course some mistletoe. We can’t wait to release the full Christmas program soon.”

Mayor, Stephanie Asher, said, “We love Christmas in Geelong so there’s nothing better than seeing the floating tree make its way to waterfront.

“Our Christmas program creates jobs for tradies, lighting experts, and children’s entertainers as well as generating income for hard working small business owners.

“Christmas in Geelong is a multicultural celebration and such a source of pride and joy for our community.”

More than 261,000 people attended last year’s Christmas program, which generated more than $20 million in
economic output for the region.