Cotton Tree will be aglow with the magic of Christmas Carols

Sing along to your favourite carols at Sunshine Coast Council’s free family-friendly Carols at Cotton Tree on Saturday 7 December from 5.30pm to 8.30pm at Cotton Tree Park.

Bring a blanket or chair and join local performers for a night of festive merriment. The jam-packed program includes your favourite carols performed by local musicians Andrew Redford, William Clift, Mia Wray, Danae Grant and Genevieve O’Brien.

The Sunshine Coast Oriana Choir and Youth Choir will add to the festive spirit with timeless traditional carols and of course there will be an appearance by our favourite bearded man in red - Santa.

Youngsters are in for a real treat with the high-energy Brett Campbell Kids Christmas Show and Goodwin Performing Arts will add to this magical night under the stars with a Glee style Christmas medley.

Two new features to this year’s program will make a perfect evening complete:

Cotton Tree Park will light up with the magic of Christmas when a special, new laser light show kicks off at 8.30pm.

Sunshine Coast Council is partnering with Maroochydore Salvation Army to help disadvantaged local families and individuals to have a happy Christmas by providing hampers and toys. This year, Carols at Cotton Tree will be a collection point for the community to bring donated toys or gifts (unwrapped) and place them under the big tree. Alternatively, you can make a coin donation. While gifts for all ages are welcome, of particular need are those for children aged 10 to 16 years of age.

All this entertainment can lead to a healthy appetite and local community organisations will be on hand with a range of food and drink for purchase. You can also bring your own picnic basket (no glass or alcohol) from 4pm to secure your spot and enjoy the roving entertainment before the official carols stage show starts at 5.30pm.

Take advantage of the special event parking at Maroochydore Rugby Union Club (access via Fourth Avenue) from 4pm to 9pm as there will be some parking restrictions within the event vicinity.

Sunshine Coast Council gratefully acknowledges the Carols at Cotton Tree supporters – Sunshine Coast Daily, 7 Local News, Energex, Hot 91 FM, Maroochy RSL, Claytons Towing, Goodlife Health, Ramsay Health, Coca-Cola, Unity Water, Evolution and the Salvation Army.

These celebrations, and others from across the region, are listed in council’s Sunshine Coast Festive Season Program 2013/14, making it easy for residents and visitors to begin planning their personal festive season calendars.

For more information on Carols at Cotton Tree or other Festive Season events head to council’s website to obtain your free Sunshine Coast Festive Season Program 2013/14.

Note: A fog machine is used as part of the laser show. While the fog is non-toxic, it may irritate those with respiratory problems