On December 24, Nicholson Street in Orbost will once again be transformed into a bustling hub of holiday cheer, as one of Orbost’s most cherished traditions returns.
Bringing this much-loved event to life is no small feat, with a dedicated (and very small) volunteer committee working tirelessly for months and relying on the generous support of local businesses and sponsors to make the magic happen.
Nicholson Street will be closed between McLeod and Salisbury Streets from 5pm, with the main festivities officially kicking off at 6pm, and good news for families, there’s no need to cook dinner.
“Don’t worry about cooking dinner,” committee member Samantha Reynolds said.
“Come on down and grab something tasty from our local food vendors.
“Whether it’s a baked potato from the Orbost Hockey Club, treats from one of the food vans joining us this year, or one of our regular Nicholson Street traders we all love, there’s something for everyone and you definitely won’t go hungry so get down early, have a bite to eat and settle in.”
Market stall coordinator Jane Crofts is thrilled with the strong response from stallholders this year.
“It’s always a bit of a surprise,” she said.
“We have our regulars, but then we also get random stalls popping up, and that keeps it exciting.
“That said, it’s not all about the market stalls and we really encourage people to pop into the usual traders too, as many will be staying open for last-minute Christmas shopping.”
At the northern end of Nicholson Street, older kids will be
spoilt for choice with activities including jumping castles, a petting zoo featuring friendly goats, face painting and the ever-popular Segway course.
Children are reminded to follow safety requirements, including wearing closed-in shoes and meeting height and weight restrictions.
New for this year is a laser tag course, offering something a little different, which will be set up on the vacant market stall block.
Younger children will be delighted to see all the much-loved favourites from last year return, including the arts and crafts station and the ever-popular decorate-a-gingerbread-man stall.
Adults feeling nostalgic will be thrilled to spot Bertie Beetle show bags making a comeback, while kids will no doubt flock to the glow-in-the-dark goodies and other fun show bags on offer.
Proceeds from show bag sales go directly back into the festival fund, helping ensure next year’s event is just as spectacular.
In the lead-up to Christmas Eve, you may also spot friendly volunteers selling raffle tickets, with prizes including seafood, linen and gift vouchers, with all proceeds from
the raffle going directly back into funding the event.
Fundraising is particularly important this year, with funds significantly lower than in previous years – making the committee even more grateful for the sponsors who were still able to contribute despite tough financial times.
Of course, no Christmas Eve celebration would be complete without a visit from Santa – he’ll arrive in true festive style on the back of a fire truck, handing out lollies and icy poles to excited children.
Families are reminded to collect Santa tickets earlier in the evening from the show bag market stall to help keep things running smoothly.
Crowds will also be treated to a special fire performance from Wacky Wombat, who is making a long-awaited return to the event.
As the evening draws to a close, celebrations will move to Forest Park for Carols by Candlelight, followed by a dazzling fireworks display at dusk.
Before heading to the park, be sure to stick around for the announcement of the district’s best Christmas lights and the raffle prize winners.
A Christmas Lights Competition map is included in this edition, with voting conducted by a mystery voter this year.
This year’s categories are:
– Best overall
– Novice
– Best decorated garden (doesn’t have to include lights and may feature inflatables)
– Best decorated tree (in a garden or window)
Be sure to grab a map, take a festive drive or stroll around town, and enjoy the creativity and Christmas spirit lighting up Orbost this season.
The Orbost Christmas Eve Festival is the perfect blend of community, celebration and holiday magic, so gather your family and friends, soak up the festive atmosphere and join in the fun of one of the towns greatest traditions.
