Carols by the Bay returns to the Cowes foreshore on December 13 for the first time since 2019.
For two years, Covid caused the cancellation of the popular event, so organisers are hoping the community will embrace the chance to get together and enjoy the entertainment, carols and fireworks.
Island Voice is running this year’s event and President Peter Paul said the evening will be back to its best, with free entertainment designed to provide a fantastic family night out.
“Come down to the amphitheatre on the foreshore, bring a chair, a blanket and basket and enjoy this wonderful community event,” he said.
Free carnival rides and face painting, as well as a magician and animal farm will keep the children entertained, running from 5.20pm until 7.20pm.
There will also be lucky prize draws throughout the evening.
The arrival of Santa at 6pm (until 7pm) on an old fire truck is sure to raise the excitement levels even higher, before the carols performances start at 7.30pm.
Performers include the Sisters and Misters choir, Peter Buitenhuis, Rock House, Natasha Crestani and Imogen Price, as well as school choirs from Cowes Primary, Newhaven College and Our Lady Star of the Sea.
The event will culminate in spectacular fireworks at 9.30pm.
Family
Peter said it would be wonderful for the community to be able come together after the isolation of the Covid years.
“The night is about families and community, and so many people have told us they’re thrilled the carols night is coming back.”
With many families under pressure from rising cost of living, Peter said the support of local businesses had ensured the evening was a cost free one for parents.
Alongside major sponsors Bendigo Bank, Phillip Island RSL, Westernport Water, Bowens Hardware, the Advertiser and Bass Coast Shire Council, Peter said the response from local businesses was incredible.
“Every business we approached has been fantastic. Everyone has come together to see that this evening works. This is a local night for the local community, featuring local artists, all at no cost to families.”
Support and funds for the evening has also been provided by Archisign, North Pier, Nature Parks and Panny’s Chocolates.
A recent quiz night at the RSL raised $2600 to help cover the cost of the children’s entertainment.
Local emergency services will also have vehicles on display along the foreshore, including the CFA and SES
Peter said families are welcome to bring a picnic basket to the foreshore, but food will also be available from local traders or food vans.
Past nights have attracted between 3500 and 4000 people, and a big crowd is expected again this year.
Keeping a watchful eye on the weather, Peter said if the forecast was for high winds or heavy rain, the event would be cancelled.
“Any cancellation will be posted on the Island Voice website and Facebook page, by 3pm on the day,” he said.
“We have our fingers crossed for clear skies. But if we do have to cancel, we will try and organise a time for Santa to visit the local schools and pre-schools.”
The Island Voice committee would welcome volunteers to help on the night.
“We appreciate all those who have come forward to help make this a wonderful night, but there’s still room for more.
“It is hard to get volunteers these days, so if you are able to lend a hand, please email Linda Marston (linda@marston.com.au).”
All volunteers will need a valid working with children permit.
Carols by the Bay, Tuesday December 13 on the Cowes foreshore.
Pre-entertainment for Children 5.20pm – 7.20pm, Carols 7.30pm, Fireworks 9.30pm.
Support and funds for the evening has been provided by: Bowens Hardware, Archisign, North Pier, the Advertiser, Nature Parks, Mitre10, PI Go Karts, Clip’n Climb, Priceline and Terry White Pharmacies, Wildlife Cruises, Klepner’s Jewellers, A Maze’n Things, Autopro, PI Tenpin Bowling, Offshore Design, H-Bomb Barbers, Bluegum Nursery and Panny’s Chocolates plus some generous local residents.