SANTA hats, reindeer antlers and elves will take over the heart of the city tomorrow as the community comes together to celebrate the start of the festive season with the NF McDonnell and Sons Mount Gambier Christmas Parade.
An exciting day for families across the region, the parade will this year feature 57 entries, with plenty of the old favourites and new colourful floats to add to the mix.
Preparing the floats for the past three months, Mount Gambier City Council community events team leader Denise Richardson said a lot of hard work goes into making sure everything runs smoothly.
“This year we have re-painted a few of the floats, making sure they are bright and colourful,” she said.
“It is exciting to see them all ready to go.”
Always a stand out at the parade and winning many prizes for their float over the years, Compton Primary School students are full of excitement, completing the final touches of their costumes and float this week.
Following a Caribbean Christmas theme this year, Year 6 student Ava said there will be lots of singing, dancing and most importantly Christmas cheer.
“I have been involved every year since being at school and I love it,” she said.
“I like how everyone is happy and gets into the Christmas spirit – we just hope to brighten their day.”
With an increase in floats this year, Ms Richardson said it was fantastic to see the community come together to support the event once again.
“It will be full of music, colour and enjoyment with the majority of entries focusing on the Christmas theme,” she said.
“We are pleased to have NF McDonnell and Sons support the parade this year and are looking forward to seeing their float at the start for the first time.
“Thankyou also to the many volunteers for their wonderful help in the lead up to the event and on the day.”
In anticipation of the event, Ms Richardson is urging the community to consider safety at all times and comply with parking requirements.
“Please be patient with the road closures and observe traffic restrictions to keep our children and families safe during the event,” she said.
“Safety is our first prvority and then of course fun – we wish everyone a merry Christmas and hope you all enjoy the parade.”
However, the Christmas fun will not stop there with the Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West hosting the annual Party in the Park at the Cave Gardens.
Full of entertainment, delicious food and of course a visit from Santa himself, event organiser Barrie Whennan said it is the club’s way of saying thank you to the community for its generous support of Rotary and other service clubs during the year.
“Through the financial support of the council, the club provides free entertainment to all children, including a jumping castle, face and craft painting, popcorn, ice cream, balloons and the opportunity for the children to meet Father Christmas,” he said.
“The proceeds from the party enable the club to continue its contributions to the Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.”
The Christmas parade will begin at 11am with the Party in the Park event to follow at the Cave Gardens.
