By JESSE GRAHAM
THE songs of Christmas will be sung among the leafy confines of Healesville Sanctuary in a Carols by Candlelight event this year, with hundreds expected to attend.
Last year’s carols event drew 1125 people to the Healesville Sanctuary, packing the venue to near capacity, and this year’s event will be the second time the venue has hosted the event.
This year’s event will be held from 6pm-10pm on Saturday 14 December and is organised by the Healesville Lions Club.
Healesville Lions Club president Paul Walker said the event is great for the community.
“It’s one of those great family nights that allow a lot of the community to come together,” he said.
The carols event will have free family and children’s activities, including a jumping castle, clown show, face-painting and even visits from furry or feathered friends from the sanctuary.
Santa Claus will be making an appearance at the event and a combined community choir will be singing classic Christmas songs from around 8pm for visitors to enjoy.
Healesville Sanctuary director Glen Holland said the event is a way for the sanctuary to thank the Healesville community for its support over the year.
“We attracted a great crowd last year and hope to grow on that this year,” he said.
“We’re adding some unique animal experiences to the mix this year and we really hope our neighbours will join us to celebrate the festive season.”
Candles and glow-sticks will be on sale for visitors to use during the event and CFA members will be assisting with lighting and bringing Santa in to the event.
In the event of extreme weather or heavy rain, the Carols by Candlelight event will be cancelled.
Entry to the Carols by Candlelight is free.
