The initially controversial Floating Christmas Tree will celebrate a huge milestone in 2024, bringing joy to the region for 10 years.
Geelong’s famous floating Christmas tree returns to the region this month, firing off the festive season. Confirmed to be launched on Saturday 30 November, opening night will include a star-studded lineup of entertainers including Christmas veteran and Geelong’s own entertainer, Denis Walter OAM.
Celebrating ten years of the famous Floating Christmas Tree, Walter will present present ‘Christmas Opening Night – Denis Walter Carols by the Bay,
Christmas Opening Night – Floating Christmas Tree
- Where: Geelong Waterfront, Steampacket Gardens, Eastern Beach Road, Geelong
- When: Saturday 30 November, from 6.30pm
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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Community members across all age groups are set to be delighted by the free festivities, kicking off at 6.30pm with a pre-show ahead of a 7.15pm performance from Team Dream. The kids’ entertainment group will get the party vibe started, while teaching children through song and dance that they can be anything they want to be.
Our main event starts at 8pm, showcasing the dulcet tones of local crooner and entertainer Denis Walter. Performing together once again, touring singer Julie Walter will join Denis on stage for our favourite carols, having performed alongside Lionel Richie and The Pointer Sisters.
Oz Boyz will put a modern twist on the distinct soul-pop sound that is Motown, featuring familiar faces from many of Australia’s touring shows and musicals. Accordionist Lucy Riddett, known for her soulful performances, will take to the stage with a repertoire of carols and music from all around the world.
Santa will make an appearance and get our younger community members into the Christmas spirit. The event will be carefully guided by Michael Cristiano, a skilled veteran musical director who has worked with Australian and international acts, including The Seekers.
At 9.15pm, this special night will culminate with the lighting of our spectacular Floating Christmas Tree as it turns 10 years old. Measuring in at 25 metres tall, the Floating Christmas Tree features 800 lights, more than 15,000 pixels to create animations and 30 new digital windows. It has 10,000 stainless steel reflective discs and took approximately 23 people to assemble. It will be lighting up the bay each night until Christmas.
One lucky child will have the chance to flick the switch and ignite low-level pyrotechnics and the Floating Christmas Tree’s first sound and light show. The show will run every 15 minutes until midnight. As always the Floating Christmas Tree draws thousands of joyful families and community members down to the waterfront with the ten year celebration expected to be even bigger and better.
The opening night adds to a spirited program of events taking place in Geelong for the festive season including activities for all ages from decorations to workshops. A full list of programs can be found here.
Further information on the Christmas Opening Night with the Floating Christmas Tree can be found via the City of Greater Geelong website here.
