Carols by Candlelight
By Bev Jordan
Glenhaven Carols by Candlelight will be celebrating 21 years when it bursts into life again at Glenhaven Oval on Sunday, December 12th.
The much-loved community event which has been attracting thousands of people each year was unable to be held last year due to COVID restrictions.
This year’s event is a ticketed event for double vaccinated people only.
Mitchell Blue, volunteer firefighter at Glenhaven Rural Fire Brigade and Chair of the Glenhaven Carols Committee says it will be bigger and better than before.
“We are truly grateful for what the Carol’s event has become and the support the community shows each year,” he said. “As COVID restrictions did not permit the event to run last year, there is much excitement in the Carols returning. Each year the community comes together on this great night to relax and celebrate.”
He says his favourite memory is the 2019 Glenhaven Carols held during the “horror” bushfire season.
“The community were deflated by the constant news of destruction and of homes and lives being lost due to the fires. To be able to up the spirits of the community at this time was great. The community were in turn very supportive of the brigade and their assistance on the night and showed this by purchasing thousands of raffle tickets.
“We were not able to proceed with the fireworks that year due to Total Fire Bans but having the entire event hold candles in darkness and sing Merry Christmas was an amazing sight to see.”
Organised by the Glenhaven Carols by Candlelight Committee and the Rotary Club of Greater Hills it showcases local talent with Reid the Music, Hills singer Cassidy-Rae Wilson, Jenna’s Singing School, Sister 2 Sister School of Singing and the combined North West Wind Ensemble and Castle Hill Youth Orchestra all set to entertain. Entry is from 4pm where all the fun of the far will be running with rides, food vans and stalls.
As well as a packed entertainment program Santa will also be visiting. The finale of the evening is a fireworks display.
Proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to Glenhaven Rural Fire Brigade, The Hills SES, Rotary Club of Greater Hills, Hills Community Aid, Glenhaven Community Defibrillator Project (two have already been purchased) and ONE80TC Rehabilitation Services which works to rebuild lives following alcohol and drug addiction.
“Without the generous support of local businesses such as fireworks sponsor Louis Carr Real Estate, our stage sponsor Element ICT, West Pennant Hills Sports Club, Kindalin, and the Rotary Club of Greater Hills amongst many other local businesses, this event simply wouldn’t be able to proceed,” he said.
WHAT: Glenhaven Carols by Candlelight
WHEN: Sunday, December 12th. 4pm to 10pm.
Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at www.trybooking.com/BUZHX. Children under 3 are free. Proof of full vaccination is required for people over the age of 16.
