As Christmas draws near, the excitement of the holiday season builds.
Wagga Wagga City Council is doing its part in spreading the Christmas cheer, with plenty of decorations in place and events planned across the city.
Destination and events coordinator Kim Parker said the community had already witnessed the CBD’s transformation with festive decorations along Baylis and Fitzmaurice streets.
“This year, the streets are adorned with an array of street decor, Christmas signs and flags, adding to the festive atmosphere,” Ms Parker said.
“A stunning focal point of the decorations is the installation of the striking trio of large stars that now shine brightly in the Civic Centre forecourt.
“Council is also sponsoring two major Christmas events for the community to look forward to.
“Carols by Candlelight will be returning after a hiatus, rejuvenated by the not-for-profit Specialist Medical Research Foundation. The two-day event is scheduled for 6-7 December at the Wagga Wagga Music Bowl at the Botanic Gardens.
“Christmas with the Con, a free evening of live musical performances now in its fourth year, is scheduled for Saturday, 14 December, at Riverside: Wagga Beach.”
As well as encouraging locals and visitors to head out to enjoy events, Ms Parker said the council wanted people to think about shopping close to home for gifts and produce this festive season.
The popular A Very Wagga Wagga Giftmas digital Advent calendar is returning this year, with more than $4000 in gifts up for grabs. A new local prize is revealed each day from 1 to 12 December.
“Entry is free; all you need to do is head over to the Visit Wagga website to take part,” Ms Parker said.
“As well as promoting amazing local businesses, the calendar is also a great way of showcasing some of the local products and offerings in our region that would make great gifts or stocking fillers.”
The council has also teamed up with the Wagga Wagga Business Chamber, putting together six specially curated hampers, varying in size and containing a selection of local produce and a Shop Local gift card.
“More than 35 local businesses and producers feature in the hampers through products and their participation in the Wagga Wagga Business Chamber program,” Ms Parker said.
“Hampers and many other great Wagga Wagga souvenirs can be purchased from the Wagga Wagga Visitor Information Centre.”
Ms Parker added that a great way to soak up the yuletide spirit was to take in the Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre’s Christmas-inspired show, ‘Tis the Season, on Monday, 9 December.
“The theatre’s stage will be transformed into a magical wonderland right before your eyes, and you’ll be able to sing along to your favourite carols as well as some swinging numbers from artists such as Bing Crosby, Judy Garland and Mariah Carey,” she said.
Also, the Wagga Wagga City Library will be presenting a special Christmas-themed Storytime program at the Botanic Gardens on Wednesday, 4 December, and Friday, 6 December.
To discover more Christmas events across the city, head to www.visitwagga.com.