The best carols in Australia
The coming together for a night of carols, entertainment and family fun under the stars is an Aussie Christmas tradition that always gets us in the festive spirit. Did you know the first Carols by Candlelight was in Melbourne on Christmas Eve 1938? Thanks to radio announcer Norman Banks who saw a lone women listening to carols by candlelight and decided to call a community wide carol sing for those who might be alone during the holidays. Since then it has grown in popularity not just in Australia but worldwide becoming a special family tradition for many. There are so many wonderful carols held all over Australia so be sure to check your local council but if you’re looking for the best carols, here they are!
NEW SOUTH WALES
Woolworths Carols in the Domain, December 20, The Domain, Sydney
This iconic Christmas celebration will start from midday with some pre-show entertainment so get down early to secure your spot for the main show beginning at 8.30pm. A star-studded list of entertainers will perform including Samantha Jade, Mark Vincent, The McClymonts, the cast of Wicked the Musical, Georgie Parker, Jay Laga'aia, The Wiggles and many more.
Carols under the Bridge, December 13, Bradfield Park, Kirribilli
Now in its tenth year, Church by the Bridge will once again host one of Sydney's fastest growing carols services. With the magnificent backdrop of the Opera House and harbour, it’s an event not to be missed. There will be plenty of pre-carols entertainment with jazz by Dave Halls Band, kids Christmas face-painting and activities.
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
Carols by Candlelight, December 17, Stage 88, Commonwealth Park
Organised by the Woden Valley Youth Choir, the second longest running carols in the country now is prepared to inspire and dazzle with the sound of traditional classics such as Joy to the World and new Australian favourites including A Touch of Christmas.
VICTORIA
Celebrating 76 years this year, this beloved family tradition promises to be as vibrant and captivating as ever. Nine’s Lisa Wilkinson and David Campbell will be hosting the festivities and performers include Marina Prior, Tim Campbell, Rob Mills, David Hobson, the cast of Les Miserables and more. All proceeds raised from the event go towards children who are blind or have low vision.
Carols in the Cathedral, December 19 to 20, St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne
The ever popular ‘Carols in the Cathedral’ is back featuring three of Melbourne’s finest choirs. The Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir will be joined by the angelic voices of The Australian Children’s Choir to perform traditional Christmas carols in the stunning setting of St Paul’s Cathedral.
QUEENSLAND
Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols 2014, December 13, Riverstage, 59 Gardens Point Rd, Brisbane
Hosted by Channel Nine's Melissa Downes and Andrew Lofthouse, this spectacular event will feature a symphony orchestra and a 60-voice carols choir directed and conducted by John Foreman. Headline performers include Opera Australia's leading tenor David Hobson, Aria Award winning songstress, Katie Noonan, jazz vocalist Emma Pask and many more!
Broadbeach Christmas Carols, December 13, Kurrawa Park, Broadbeach
Action, activities and family fun entertainment will begin at 3pm before the carols kick off at 6pm with an amazing line up of performers such as the incredible Marina Prior and talented Denis Walter. They’ll be joined by Gold Coast Youth Orchestra, Gold Coast Choir, The Boogie Woogies, Broadbeach elves and many more.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Woolworths Carols by Candlelight, December 14, Elder Park, Adelaide
Celebrating their 70th year the Woolworths Carols by Candlelight will be sure to delight again with the talented voices of Kate Ceberano, James Morrison & Sons, Rachael Leahcar and Adelaide Young Voices singing some of your favourite carols. There will also be line-up of well-known Adelaide personalities and sporting stars to be revealed on the night!
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
IGA Carols by Candlelight, December 19, Supreme Court Gardens, Perth
Hosted by Nine’s Louise Momber and 6PR’s Graham Mabury and featuring special guests Tom Burlinson (The Man from Snowy River), Robbie Anderson (The Voice Kids) and Jay Weston, The Perth Carols Orchestra and more, a night at the gardens will be a fun and special night for the whole family.
TASMANIA
Clarence Carols by Candlelight, December 14, Bellerive Boardwalk, Hobart
Enjoy the collection of classic carols at one of the most unique waterfront locations. MC Andrew Colrain will guide the crowd through the line-up of special guests Kim Sellers, Clarence City band, Lincoln Singers and Make Believe Entertainment.
Carols by Candlelight, December 13 to 14, St David’s Park, Hobart
The magnificent St David’s Park will be the setting for the Your Habitat Hobart Carols by Candlelight featuring the Taroona High School Senior Concert Band joined by the Musical Theatre Crew Choir. Performers include Kate Wilson, David Gilkes, James Bourke, Martine Holliday and Crew-Sing.