The carols will begin following the Christmas parade along Stawell’s main street, which begins at 6.30pm. 

Previously held in the Town Hall, the carols have been moved to Cato Park to be held by the lake, under the trees.

The event has been organised by Stawell Performing Arts Company (SPACI) for the first time this year.

Group spokesperson Deb Armstrong encouraged everyone to join in the Christmas festivities at the park, which saw the event returning outdoors. 

“The feedback we have had so far has been really positive, so we hope that translates into people coming along and enjoying themselves,” she said. 

“This is a community event that and we want it to bring people together for Christmas, supporting local businesses and having a great time.”

Community members are urged, after watching the parade down the main street, to bring along a chair or a blanket and listen to the quality performances from local singers and musicians. 

There will be a barbecue on offer from 6.30pm as well as a jumping castle, face painting and children’s activities. 

Sing along to your favourite standards accompanied by the Stawell City Brass Band. The community carols will be interspersed with Christmas songs from individuals and group performers.

The performances will include items from SPACI’s two singing groups, the Young Ones and the Come and Sing group, Stawell West Primary School, St Patrick’s Primary School, Stawell 502 Primary School and a duet by SPACI leaders Tracey Erkelens and Dianne Stewart. 

Ms Armstrong urged the community to support the event, which celebrated the Christmas spirit, which was alive and well in Stawell. 

“Sometimes people can have a rough time over Christmas. For some people it can be a very lonely time,” Ms Armstrong said. 

“This is an opportunity for people to come together and connect outside the family, as a community."

WHAT: Stawell Carols

WHERE: Cato Park

WHEN: 7pm, Friday, December 16, following the Christmas Festival parade in Stawell’s main street.