Illustration of a choir in red robes holding candles on church steps while a crowd listens in the snow (Carols by Candlelight)

Carols by Candlelight

Visitors gather outdoors to enjoy festive entertainment featuring guest performers, big band music, show choirs, and local school groups. Children can meet Santa and his Elf, see characters like the Cat in the Hat, get their faces painted, and take part in hands-on craft activities. The event also offers a Christmas market showcasing local traders, food trucks, and Christmas portrait photo opportunities.

Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Free entry; the event is non-ticketed. Food and beverages are available for purchase from vendors.

Hours

Christmas markets from 5:00 pm; face painting and craft activities from 5:00pm to 8:30pm; Santa and his Elf meet-and-greet from 5.00pm–5.40pm and 6.00pm–6.40pm; stage program from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Christmas portraits are from 5.00pm–8.30pm.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Craigieburn

Food & Drink

Food trucks are available, and visitors can bring picnics; free water stations are provided for refillable drink bottles.

Parking

Parking is available at Craigieburn Central and Punt Street Reserve, with traffic marshals managing parking. Accessible parking is available via the SPLASH car park via Central Park Ave; alternative accessible parking is available at Craigieburn Central.

Accessibility

Features accessible parking, footpaths, a reserved grass viewing area, accessible toilets with Changing Places facility, and AUSLAN stage interpretation.

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Bring a picnic rug or blanket, a refillable drink bottle and sun-safe items; water stations are available onsite.
  • Pack a warm jacket for the outdoor event, and bring only lower chairs or blankets if using the front audience section.
  • Use one of the designated parking areas and follow traffic marshals; accessible parking is available at the SPLASH car park or Craigieburn Central.
  • Avoid bringing glass, knives, weapons or alcohol, and expect that random bag checks may occur.
  • If extreme weather is forecast, check Hume City Council social media or register for event updates before travelling.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free entry; no ticket is required.
  • Santa and his Elf have meet-and-greets at the event. (times omitted)
  • New this year: the accessible viewing area has been relocated closer to the path.

Links & Contact

Run by Hume City Council

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the event suitable for children and families?

Yes. The event welcomes visitors of all ages and includes children’s activities, face painting, crafts, and Santa meet-and-greets.

Do I need a ticket or registration to attend?

Entry is free and non-ticketed. Registration is optional and provides event updates.

What can children do at the event?

Children can enjoy face painting, hands-on crafts, and a Santa and Elf meet-and-greet; the program also features Cat in the Hat with Thing 1 and Thing 2.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Food and beverages are available from vendors, and visitors may bring a picnic. Bring a refillable bottle for the water stations; glass bottles and alcohol are prohibited.

What are the viewing areas and access facilities like?

Paths connect parking areas and parts of the park, but audience areas are on grass that may be uneven. There are accessible toilets, AUSLAN interpretation, a reserved viewing area and a quiet space.

Browse Christmas in Craigieburn

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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