The City of Geelong places huge importance on Christmas and goes to great lengths to get locals and visitors into the seasonal spirit. The shopping district comes alive with a variety of special events and experiences, and every year it offers something new. Previous Christmas events have included a morning tea with Santa Clause, a ‘snowfall’ experience for Geelong which usually enjoys the warmth of an Australian summer, a farmers market and also Christmas movies that are screened publicly for the entire family.
The Central Geelong Magic Meter Elves
Every year, The Central Geelong Magic Meter Elves turn up in the streets at Christmas to spread seasonal cheer. This group of elves are colourfully decorated and are striking to the eye. They will be difficult to miss in their bright and dazzling costumes and they will provide cheer for individuals of all ages, including adults and children, with lots of lollies and goodies to share with those that pass them by.
Shopping in Geelong
Geelong offers a range of shopping experiences, including tiny independent stores and larger chain department stores. You will find many different opportunities to gather you Christmas gifts, and also the fresh food that you will need to prepare a scrumptious lunch.
If you are seeking an all-in-one location for shopping in Geelong then head to the Westfields which has all of the popular stores and supermarkets, located in one place. The shopping centre comes to life with Christmas decorations and music to cheer up the shoppers. There are Christmas trees and lights to brighten up the shopping outlet, and no Christmas could be complete without a visit from Santa Clause who will pose with the children for photos. A kids play world is also available for extra fun.
Geelong loves markets!
You will find them on every weekend in different locations, offering a range of goods to buy. If you are seeking something unique and special for a family member or a friend, or you are a tourist seeking local Geelong souvenirs, then the markets in the area could be your best chance of snatching one up.
Local markets that are active in the Geelong area, including the lead up to Christmas, include Central Geelong Farmers Market, Geelong Night Market, Courthouse ARTS, Belmont Sunday Market and Geelong Showgrounds Market. All of these are perfect for the entire family, and they will get you outdoors to enjoy the fantastic weather that is on offer in the region during the Christmas period.
Christmas Carols in Geelong
Denis Walter’s Carols by the Bay are the popular and much-loved local Christmas carols in Geelong, and they are held every year by the host Denis Walters. Denis is a local singer and media personality, and each Christmas season he gathers a selection of musicians and performers to present Christmas carols to the crowds at the bay.
Families gather in large numbers, with torches and candles, to sing their favourite songs. The event is held every year at Eastern Beach overlooking Corio Bay which is the perfect spot to stretch out underneath the stars, on the grassy lawn, and celebrate the season of Christmas with family and friends.
If you are heading along to the Denis Walters Christmas Carols by the Bay, you should certainly take along a picnic to share, and some blankets and pillows so that everyone is comfortable. Prepare yourself for a long evening of seasonal cheer, music, songs, food, and also a visit from Santa and Humphrey Bear.
Christmas Lights in Geelong
Many regions have Christmas light guides that show the streets that have the most lights. Geelong is different, because during December you will find the lights are everywhere, and you’ll easily enjoy any drive with your family through the residential areas of Geelong. You should take your time to drive slowly and soak up the beautiful sights of decorations, outdoor Christmas trees and fairy lights that cover the houses and residential front lawns.
The residential areas of Belmont, Corio, Grovedale and St Albans Park should be taken notice of, as there are many houses lit up in the surrounding streets. Also check out the Geelong Advertiser during Christmas as it frequently prints the exact addresses of houses that have decorated themselves for the season.
Driving through Geelong at Christmas is a great treat for the whole family, including the children who will find delight in the houses that are twinkling under the moonlight. You can also park your car and stroll up some of the brighter streets, and take note if house owners are also collecting coins that will be donated to charities.