Families have been coming to sing Carols in Kibble Park on Christmas Eve since 1961 and while last year’s event was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions, the carols are back this year.
Running from 6pm to 9pm, the evening caters for young families and all those who make up the Gosford community with up to 500 people attending each year.
Gosford Uniting Church has been the lead organiser running the carols since 2013.
Community-building games and activities which encourage all-age participation are organised.
Music is provided by the Gosford City Brass band and singing is supplemented by the Central Coast Philharmonia Choir.
Traditional carols and songs are sung by candlelight with tea and coffee provided for a gold coin donation.
The atmosphere is that of a community picnic with family groups sitting around on rugs or folding chairs, with an ambience of compassion, community and respect, celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.
The MC ensures that everyone gets involved from the youngest to the oldest.
The evening winds up with the arrival of Santa Claus bearing a sack full of small gifts for the children at 9pm.
A Gosford Uniting Church spokesperson said the carols event is particularly important this year.
“COVID-19 regulations have caused our community to be isolated for such a long period of time,” the spokesperson said.
“It is a great way to celebrate our coming together again as a vibrant inclusive community.”
Source:
Media release, Dec 14
Gosford Uniting Church
I have heard that the carols on Christmas Eve have again been cancelled. Can someone please explain why as this is an outdoor event with opportunity to socially distance and be COVID safe. I am extremely disappointed.