THE flick of a switch ramped up the Christmas cheer in Millicent over the weekend as hundreds of residents flocked to the rotunda and celebrated the start of the holiday season.
Over 500 people joined in on Saturday night’s festivities at the parklands as part of the Millicent Business Community Association’s Lights Up event.
This year’s event boasted a number of new activities and attractions, including the town’s street piano, a train ride, face painting and Centacare’s games and arts and crafts table.
Meanwhile songs and dance with Mainly Music, the jumping castle, mini-golf and games managed by the Guides made return appearances, following on from the success of previous years.
At around 7pm the man in red – Father Christmas – made a special guest appearance with his helpers to hear the children’s wish lists, pose for photographs and hand out confectionery donated by Fosters Foodland Millicent.
MBCA secretary and Lights Up organiser Marg Chapple said she was pleased with the event’s success and in particular the weather, which did not dampen the spirits of families and community members.
“We were very happy with the outcome,” she said.
“I would say the number of people was on par with those seen previous years and this was despite the weather being a bit dodgy.
“I have received positive feedback from the community and service clubs, including the Millicent Lions Club, which was extremely happy with food sales.
“The extra additions really boosted this year’s itinerary, in particular the train, which was a hit and a half and the face painters who were kept busy all night.
“All those activities added to what we have really created over the last two years and we hope to keep it growing.”
Ms Chapple also highlighted the community support for the event, including that of service clubs, local groups and the Wattle Range Council, which provided funding.
“The community really banded together,” she said.
“That is what we really pride ourselves on, the fact that families can come and get involved in free activities for the kids.
“It is so good on the night with all the service clubs and groups that support us.
“It is not a big job for everybody, they set-up and then pack up at the end of the night and it is done.”
Lux Wiese won the honour of turning on the rotunda’s lights, which finished the evening’s festivities and, as well as a sea of candles held by those attending, lit up the business district.
The nativity scene was also in place at the rotunda thanks to the Millicent Men’s Shed and will remain there until New Year’s Eve.
