Unwrapping festive cheer

Piano-accordionist Lucy Riddett will help bring the Christmas Performance Trail to Geelong. (Supplied)

Geelong’s Christmas program has been unwrapped with Carols by the Bay and a performance trail being just a few highlights for this year’s festive season.

A new addition to the Christmas in Geelong program will include a Christmas Performance Trail in central Geelong, where choirs, musicians, dancers and street performers will pop up at rotating locations during the event.

Piano-accordionist and ambassador for the activation Lucy Riddett said the performance trail would be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 28 November to 14 December.

“There will be plenty of songs, dance and frivolity to add another dimension to the central Geelong experience,” she said.

“Geelong is such a vibrant place to be at Christmas time, and I am so excited to take my music from the stage to the streets.”

Celebrations will begin with two beloved Geelong traditions, including Denis Walter’s Carols by the Bay and the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree at Steampacket Gardens on 22 November.

Deputy mayor Ron Nelson said Christmas was a special occasion in Geelong as it was a time to come together to celebrate with the community.

“This season is about connection and reflection, and our program has something for all ages and interests to enjoy,” he said.

“Whether it’s catching a pop-up street show, perusing market stalls or riding the Carousel at night, there are many ways to get involved.”

The program will feature the Floating Christmas Tree sound and light show, School Christmas Trees display, a Christmas market, and a Christmas at the Shed event.

The Geelong Carousel will also host Christmas nights and Santa sessions, the National Wool Museum will have multiple activities for all ages, and windows across Geelong’s CBD will feature Christmas displays.