For residents of Gisborne, a 2023 Christmas miracle has saved a local Carols by Candlelight from disappearing from the event calendar.
Gisborne Carols by Candlelight, which will be held on December 2, at Holy Cross Catholic Primary School New Gisborne, was initially cancelled due to a lack of funding, until sponsor Metricon saved the day.
Event organiser Daniel Webb said the free event was held for the first time last year and the volunteer organisation was excited that local community sponsors could come aboard to save the event.
“It’s a growing event every year… we’re expecting [more than] 3000 people to attend, and we got [more than] 3000 people last year,” he said.
“We’ve got local talent during the day and we have a harmonix group singing. The activities [will] include a local market, kids rides and activities, pony rides, animal farms, face painting, and a Santa visit.”
Mr Webb said they wanted to integrate the Chistrams theme and spirit into the community with activities.
“Having Christmas music and carols is a great community tradition,” he said. “Having [the event] free brings families together who can’t afford to attend major events outside the community.
“Everything we put on we try to make family oriented and financially available for everybody.”
The day will kick off at 2pm, with activities running until 7pm, and the carols will start at 7.30pm and conclude with a firework display.
If anyone wants to support or volunteer their time they can contact the group via Facebook. They can also go there for more information.
Details: www.facebook.com/Gisbornecarolsbycandlelight
Zoe Moffatt
