Get a Jump Start on Christmas
- intouch Magazine
- Oct 31, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 2, 2022
For years it seemed that we had to wait until the end of November before we would start seeing decorations in stores, Christmas paraphernalia being sold in shops or reading about upcoming yuletide events.
OK, maybe I'm showing my age, but I'm sure we can all agree that it seems to be getting earlier and earlier every year. So, although it may be just shy of 2 months to Christmas, let's jump in now for some festive cheer and look at what's coming up this month to get us in the spirit!
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR
Living in the Hunter, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to events, concerts, arts, food, wine and tourism destinations, and the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular is no exception – it is quite literally the largest in
the Southern Hemisphere.
This annual event returns bigger and brighter for 2022. With the switch being flicked on 4 November, visitors can enjoy a truly memorable night out with loved ones while wandering through the themed displays created using over 3 million lights. The spectacular will run right through to Australia Day 2023 – so there's plenty of time to go once, twice or more!
The stunning new displays include a 14-metre-tall Christmas tree, an 8-metre-tall glittering stack of gifts, a 2.5-metre high giant illuminated Santa, a brand new 12 days of Christmas and display, and much more. To book tickets, visit www.hvg.com.au.
A CELTIC CHRISTMAS
After breaking touring records in 2019 and following a further sell-out tour of Australia in 2021 with A Taste of Ireland, the all-singing, all-dancing, family-friendly treat, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland is heading to Cessnock this November! Watch two star-crossed lovers twirl beneath the mistletoe as award-winning Irish musicians complement the world's best Irish Dancers to deliver a heart-warming performance that will leave your feet tapping, eyes shining and your soul wanting more!
Immerse yourself in the magnificence of the traditional Celtic landscape and let the magic of Christmas in Ireland transport you to a world full of excitement and wonder - a world where energetic music and dance embody the beating heart of the festive season. You can catch this festive show at a number of locations and dates.
Visit www.atasteofirelandshow.com for tickets.
WHEN/WHERE: 18 November – Cessnock Performing Arts Centre, Cessnock
WHEN/WHERE: 29 November – Laycock Theatre, Gosford
WHEN/WHERE: 1 December – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
CAROLS IN THE PARK
After a three-year hiatus, the much-loved Cessnock City Council's Carols in the Park is set to go off with a bang on Friday, 2 December, at Cessnock Sportsground.
Country music star and local resident Tara Naysmith returns to the Carols stage in 2022 as host. Santa's Little Helpers – a 14-piece big band, comprised of talented musicians from across the Hunter – are also back for another year of musical magic under the guidance of Musical Director Greg Paterson. Greg is well known for his outstanding contribution to big stage musicals and his wonderful work as an arranger – not to mention his sell-out performances at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre – and has been a part of the Cessnock Carols family for many years.
Of course, the night would not be complete without a visit from the man himself. And, as in years past, the night will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display that is sure to delight and amaze. A selection of food trucks will be on hand to help feed the hungry masses, and for those keen to get a jump on their Christmas shopping, there'll be market stalls
stocked with plenty of gift ideas. For more information, visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au
