The festive season has well and truly arrived and there are many ways for families and children to get into the spirit this year and enjoy some Christmas magic.
From our favourite Christmas traditions to new activities and adventures, the Central Geelong Christmas program is guaranteed to bring some joy.
Do your Christmas shopping in Central Geelong and win
Until November 30, spend $30 in one day at any Central Geelong business and take your receipts to the Spend and Win Redemption Booth, to enter the draw to win the major $10,000 cash prize and runner-up prizes valued at $6000.
Shoppers will also receive a $10 instant reward voucher from a participating Central Geelong business, simply for entering (while stocks last, daily limits apply).
Get your Christmas list happening, shop in Central Geelong and be rewarded.
Details: www.centralgeelong.com.au/spend-and-win
Floating Christmas Tree
Geelong’s spectacular Floating Christmas Tree has officially been switched on and is lighting up Corio Bay for all to enjoy once again.
Moored at Steampacket Quay on the Waterfront, just near the Carousel, and standing 25metres tall, our beloved tree is a magical sight that’s not to be missed.
Visit the tree and marvel at the exciting sound and light show each night between 8.30pm and midnight. The light show goes for about 6 minutes and plays every 15 minutes. Be sure to wear your mask and adhere to physical distancing requirements at all times.
Alternatively, watch a live feed of the tree from the comfort of your home or enjoy the sound and light show recording at your leisure. For more information or to view the live feed and video recording visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au
Central Geelong Christmas Trail
The Central Geelong Christmas Trail offers so many fun and unique elements to enjoy in Central Geelong from November 23.
Follow the trail to discover giant 3D artworks, an augmented reality adventure where you can watch some cute Christmas characters getting ready for Christmas and social media filters that put your in front of the Floating Christmas Tree. There’s also a series of Christmas in Central Geelong colouring sheets that come to life with the help of augmented reality.
You’ll discover the delights of two themed Christmas windows depicting Santa’s workshop and sleigh and you can post your letters to Santa at the North Pole letterbox located at the Carousel. We encourage you to post your letters to Santa earlier this year to allow for postal delays and to receive a letter back from Santa.
You’ll also be able to pop into one of several Santa Stops located throughout Central Geelong to collect Christmas treats from participating businesses.
The much-loved Central Geelong Christmas Elves will be greeting shoppers and handing out goodies from November 27.
Visit www.centralgeelong.com.au/christmas to download the Christmas Trail Map and stay tuned for more information.
School Christmas trees
In keeping with tradition, students from 34 Geelong schools have individually decorated a Christmas Tree this year. These decorative trees will be on display daily from November 23 to January 7 in Little Malop Street Central. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the gorgeous new festoon lighting – the colourful bulbs add a pretty touch to Little Malop Street Central.
Christmas projections
City Hall in Gheringhap Street will once again be lit up each night from November 16 to January 7. Watch the animated Christmas elf take us on an adventure through time, celebrating Christmas over the decades.
Shorts Place, a quick walk from City Hall, will also be illuminated by festive projections nightly.
Christmas fun to get you in the festive mood
If you’re chomping at the bit to celebrate the season, there are many Central Geelong businesses who can help you get into the spirit of things and add some family enjoyment to your household at this lovely time of year.
Dusk’s range of Christmas candles are colourful, merry and bright and will fill your home with the scent of Christmas. LED homewares will also kick-start your Christmas wonderland. They’re priced at 2 for $50 (limited time on selected range). Visit Dusk in Westfield Geelong or online at www.dusk.com.au
Sleepwear designer brand, Peter Alexander brings gorgeous and uber comfortable sleepwear from the Westfield Geelong store. The newly launched Christmas range is fun and offers matching sets for the whole family, even a ‘Gingerbread Doggy Tee’ for the dog! www.peteralexander.com.au
Tea specialists T2, also in Westfield, has a gorgeous advent calendar allowing you to sip and sample your way through 24 teas in 24 days! Choose from a tea bag or leaf tea version at www.t2tea.com.au. T2’s delicious range of Eggnog, Lemony Sippet and Sugar Apple Fairy tea blends are back again in their own adorable bon bon-shaped boxes.
If you still need a little coercion to get your Christmas spirit on, then perhaps visit Toyworld Express in Market Square for an advent calendar with a twist – and one the kids will love (including big kids!) – the Lego Advent Calendar. With many styles to choose from, kids can wake up to a Lego gift every day from December 1-25. View the range online at www.toyworld.com.au
The Body Shop’s ‘Festive Berry’ seasonal range is wonderfully Christmassy and almost good enough to eat. From hand cream to body butter, sugar lip scrub to body yoghurt, these treats won’t last long. Visit in store at Westfield Geelong or online at www.thebodyshop.com.au
Stay tuned at www.centralgeelong.com.au or follow #LoveCentralGeelong for more information about Christmas in Central Geelong and the magical range of fun on offer for your whole family.
Please adhere to ‘Third Step’ restrictions and wear a face mask when you leave home.
