Geelong’s famous floating Christmas tree has arrived on the city’s waterfront with suprises for this year’s annual lighting ceremony on Friday night.
“This year the floating Christmas tree will feature a new decorative element: colourful presents with feature lighting will adorn the base of the tree,” City Hall announced.
“The presents are scheduled to be installed on Tuesday and Wednesday.
City Hall’s expecting a big turnout again this year for the free entertainment and a fireworks display.
The entertainment begins 7pm with The Kazoos, The Itchy Feet band, the cast of Medimme’s Aladdin, Geelong’s Best Kid Busker winner Tim Meadows and Piano Bar’s Andy Pobjoy and friends.
“There will also be face painting, roving entertainment, the Central Geelong Marketing Christmas elves as well as an appearance by Santa,” City hall said.
“At 9pm one lucky local child, chosen through a colouring competition, will have the honour of flicking the switch to begin the colourful lighting and fireworks display.
“Festivities will then continue at City Hall with a stunning new light projection show, created by local artist Matt Bonner, which starts at 9.30pm.
Mayor Bruce Harwood said Geelong was no renowned for its “spectacular Christmas program”.
‘The lighting of the floating tree is a special event for many local families and a great way to mark the start of the festive season,” he said.
“Best of all, it’s a free night out for the family, so come along and enjoy the special Christmas events on offer at the beautiful Geelong Waterfront.”
City Hall thanked event sponsors Geelong Port, Hanlon Industries and Elstone Diving Services for making the tree “possible” again this year.
