Spreading festive cheer through song and lights

The Fraser Coast is embracing the festive season with Christmas tree light-ups and festive carol events in Hervey Bay and Maryborough.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the annual Christmas trees in Hervey Bay and Maryborough will be lit later this month, adorned with lights and decorations for all to enjoy.

“Lighting the Christmas tree is a cherished tradition that brings our community together and fills our shared spaces with joy, unity and festive cheer,” he said.

The Maryborough Christmas Tree Lighting will take place during the Mary Christmas Street Party at City Hall on Friday, November 22.

The Christmas Tree Lighting will start at 4:30pm and finish at 8:30pm.

The Street Party will feature fine dining, entertainment, Christmas shopping, and photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Residents can also step inside Santa’s workshop at City Hall for free kids' activities, including face painting, gingerbread and ornament decorating, bracelet making and Christmas installation making from recycled materials.

The Hervey Bay Christmas Tree Lighting will be held at City Park in Pialba on Friday, November 29 from 4:30pm to 8pm.

The evening will also feature live music, kids' activities such as ornament and gingerbread decorating, bracelet making, and colouring in.

In coming weeks, residents and visitors can enjoy Fraser Coast’s Carols by Candlelight events—ideal for relaxing, singing along to favourite Christmas songs, and celebrating the spirit of the season.

“Carols are so important to our community as they bring people together to share in the joy of the season, creating a sense of connection, tradition and celebration that unites us all,” Cr Seymour said.

Community Christmas carol events include:

• Carols in the Country – Tiaro – Saturday, November 30
• Maryborough Christmas Carols – Brolga Theatre (two shows) – Sunday, December 8
• Hervey Bay Carols by Candlelight – Seafront Oval – Saturday, December 14
• Burrum Heads Carols by Candlelight - Burrum Heads Christian Community Church 48 Howard St – Thursday December 19

For the first time, Maryborough’s Christmas Carols will take place at the Brolga Theatre on Sunday, December 8, with two showtimes at 4 pm and 7 pm. Fireworks will follow in the Brolga Theatre car park.

Darron Hayhoe, Lead Pastor for Reach Church is inviting everyone to join in to celebrate the spirit of togetherness, generosity, and faith.

“We’re thrilled to be hosting this year’s carols at the Brolga Theatre. Having them indoors ensures we can enjoy the event regardless of the weather. It’s a wonderful setting for the community to embrace the joy, hope, and peace that Christmas brings.”

Residents are required to reserve a seat, either by visiting the Brolga Theatre in person or booking online at https://brolgat.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/141959

The Hervey Bay Carols by Candlelight will take place on December 14 from 5pm to 8pm at Seafront Oval, featuring traditional carols, festive songs, a visit from Santa, and a fireworks finale.

There are a range of community Christmas events happening across the region from now until Christmas which you can view at:  https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/festive-events

If you are a community group or not-for-profit organisation planning a community event that you’d like to include on our list, please email us at helpdeskcommunications@frasercoast.qld.gov.au with the event date, time, location and details.

"Council encourages everyone to join the holiday spirit by attending one of our many Christmas events in the coming months to celebrate, make joyful memories, and spread cheer throughout our community," Cr Seymour said.