A BRIEF GUIDE TO THE EAST’S BEST CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT EVENTS

By Madeleine Gray on December 1, 2016 in News

Carols by candlelight is a magical concept in its simplicity. Whether you’re a little kid reveling in being up past your bedtime, or an adult reveling in being a little kid, carols unite and transcend us.

In the Eastern Suburbs, we are lucky to have a vast range of caroling events to tempt us, from the famous Bondi and Coogee events, to smaller, more local shindigs. Here, we present you with a few of the best (in chronological order).

Matraville Carols by Candlelight
When: Saturday, December 10, 5.00–9.00pm
Where: Barwon Park, Matraville
What: We sometimes forget the gorgeous local community that exists just a stone’s throw away in Matraville, but not this year! The annual Matraville Christmas Carols have become a marker of the suburb’s progress. Starting quietly over 10 years ago with 1000 participants, they now attract about 8000 people a year. Matraville resident and co-organiser Carlos Da Rocha says, “It’s a celebration of community more than anything else. We don’t have the ‘superstars as seen on TV’, but we do have the every day superstars that we are so very proud of.”

Coogee Carols by the Sea
When: Saturday, December 10, 6.00–10.00pm
Where: Grant Reserve, Coogee
What: Coogee is home to two caroling events. Today’s festivities are organised by the combined Churches of Coogee, and they’re sure to be a hit. Think bellowing baritones, sweet sopranos, and everything in between. Head here after you’ve sufficiently impressed everyone in Matraville earlier in the day!

Bondi Carols by the Sea
When: Wednesday, December 14, 5.00–8:30pm
Where: Bondi Park, Bondi Beach
What: Perhaps the most iconic caroling event in Sydney, this year audiences will be treated to a lively night of entertainment from the Cool Yule Trio, a capella group Heartbeat (think Pitch Perfect, but better), and the wonderful Bondi Brass, as well as performances by the Primary School Rock Stars, Bondi Beach Public choir and violin groups, and the School of Arts Academy of Dance. Plus, of course, a visit from Santa! Gather your picnic rugs, warm up the vocal cords, and let your voice carry across the ocean.

Coogee Carols at Coogee Beach
When: Sunday, December 18, 6:30–8:30pm
Where: Goldstein Reserve, Coogee Beach
What: Organised by Randwick Council, this event is always a Christmas extravaganza. Think big stage, massive choir, twelve-piece band, amazing singers, and local celebrities. A visit from Santa is the cherry on top! Head down to the Pav or the Bay in the arvo and settle in for a night of festive cheer for the whole family. This is where the magic happens.

South Maroubra Christmas Party
When: Saturday, December 17, 2.00–9.00pm
Where: South Maroubra Village Green, Meagher Ave, South Maroubra
What: Organised and primarily sponsored by the fine folks at Walsh’s Pharmacy, the South Maroubra Christmas Party is a day of family fun, with performances from local kidlets, choirs, and you! Past surprise guests have even included Spider Man, so be sure to round up the tin lids and let the Christmas glee soar!