The annual Lions Gisborne Festival will return on December 8, for another year of community activities and festival fun.
The free event will be held at Gardiner Reserve from 4.30pm to 9.30pm, and will include children’s activities, market and food stalls, entertainment and carnival rides.
Club member Russell Walker said the festival has been running for about 50 years and the night will conclude with a firework display to keep the colourful tradition alive.
“Last year there were about 5000 people, [and we’re] hoping for similar numbers,” Mr Walker said, “we think with all the free activities it should still be a good attraction for families to attend.
“[The festival will] consist of a street parade with local groups, floats, Santa of course, a monster truck and monster dragon.
“The Bendigo Chinese lions will also be in the parade and perform, and we have a stilt walker. On the ground there will be live music, and entertainment [and] free kids activities including face painting.”
Live music from local musicians will include a performance by Gisborne country music artist Craig Lloyd, who won an award at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Mr Walker said the festival tends to attract local people, and is aimed at bringing families together for an affordable night of activities.
“With the economy being tight, the festival is providing a range of free activities for families,” he said.
“You can go there and not spend a cent or spend some on the carnival rides and food [stalls].”
Zoe Moffatt
