East Gippsland is gearing up for a festive season filled with joy, community spirit and entertainment.
Here’s a look at some of the exciting events happening this Christmas:
Mallacoota Community Christmas Carols
When: Friday, December 6, 5pm-7pm
Where: Mallacoota Community Clubrooms
This year’s carols include a performance by Call and Response, community singing, music from Strum Club and more.
Bairnsdale Toy Run
When: Sunday, December 8, 8am-3pm
Where: NRMA Bairnsdale Riverside Holiday Park
The annual Bairnsdale Toy Run for the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal is back for another year. The day will kick off with a breakfast of bacon and eggs at 8am before assembling at 9am for a briefing at 10.45. The bikes will leave at 11am sharp, stopping at Bruthen, Nowa Nowa and Lakes Entrance before finishing up back at NRMA Bairnsdale Riverside Holiday Park. The raffle will be drawn at 2pm, followed by a sausage sizzle.
Stratford Community Carols and Family Fun Time
When: Sunday, December 8 commencing at 4.45pm
Where: Stratford Apex Park, McMillan Street, Stratford
Free attractions for children include jumping castles, a Santa visit and lollies, fairy floss, and popcorn and the popular and safe LED candles for waving.
The community Christmas songs and carols program will be secular and feature well-known local artists. The Stratford Singers, Overcoming Obstacles Group, children’s items performed by the Stratford Primary School, St Patrick’s Primary School, and Stratford Scout Group. Julie Ward’s Christmas Choir and soloist, Mick Harrington.
In the case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the Stratford Mechanics Hall.
Bairnsdale Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 14 at 11am
Where: Main Street Bairnsdale
Get ready to feel the magic of the festive season, brought to you by the Bairnsdale Advertiser, the Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Cranes Civil and Surfacing. This year’s theme is green and gold Christmas.
Bairnsdale Christmas Festival- Laneway 3875
When: Saturday, December 14 from 11am-3pm
Where: Nicholson Street Mall, Bairnsdale
The Bairnsdale Christmas Festival, hosted by the Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry and First National King and Heath Bairnsdale, will be an event you won’t want to miss. Santa Claus himself will be making a special visit, there will also be live music, food vans and the ever-popular Christmas market.
Paynesville Christmas Family Fiesta
When: December 21, 2024, 3pm-9pm
Where: Gilsenan Reserve, Paynesville
Celebrate the holidays with live music, delicious food, kids’ activities, and a lively atmosphere right by the waterfront.
Maffra Christmas Eve Celebrations
When: December 24, 2024, 12pm- 8.30pm
Where: 13 Railway Place, Maffra
Experience a community celebration featuring festive lights, markets and entertainment for the whole family.
Orbost Christmas Eve Festival
When: December 24, 2024, 6pm-9pm
Where: Nicholson Street, Orbost
This vibrant festival brings together carols and activities for kids in the heart of Orbost.
Lakes Entrance Twilight Market
When: December 27, 2024, 5pm-9pm
Where: Beachcomber Holiday Units, Lakes Entrance
Enjoy a festive market offering handmade goods, local produce, and live entertainment.
For more detailed schedules and additional holiday activities, including local markets and parkruns, visit the Visit Gippsland or East Vic Events website.
Plan your visit to East Gippsland to soak in the festive cheer and enjoy a memorable Christmas with your loved ones.
