Sydney's Christmas programme has been officially launched by the City

Source: City of Sydney. Lord Mayor Clover Moore launched the Sydney Christmas program at Martin Place.

Sydney has officially begun its Christmas celebrations, featuring an array of decorations, carols, light displays, concerts, Christmas trees, and special retail events.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore expressed her enthusiasm for the festivities, stating, “Each year, we warmly welcome thousands of people from all over Sydney to the city center for our Christmas celebrations. With live concerts, vibrant light projections, excellent shopping opportunities, and the chance for kids to meet Santa, there’s something for everyone - visitors, shoppers, and locals alike.” She added, “I encourage everyone to experience the enchantment of Sydney Christmas. With sunny weather, bustling streets, and long evenings, it’s the ideal time to explore our city with loved ones.”

This year, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT will hold a graduation ceremony in Martin Place on December 8th, a first for the organization. This event will honor the accomplishments of several remarkable guide dogs. Each graduate has undergone two years of rigorous training to become a full-time guide dog. The breeding, raising, and training of each dog costs over A$35,000, a process entirely funded by the generosity of the public.

Those passing by will have the chance to witness a live guide dog demonstration and enjoy some cuddles with guide dog puppies in training.

Dr. White, a representative from Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, expressed gratitude, stating, “Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is incredibly thankful to the City of Sydney for choosing our organization as its charity partner for this year’s Christmas festivities. This is a wonderful opportunity to raise essential funds for our crucial work.”

Here are some highlights of Sydney Christmas 2015:

Martin Place Christmas Tree – on display until December 25th Visitors to the city center are invited to participate in the interactive dance pad at the Christmas Tree and send text messages using #sydxmastree, which will then be displayed on the tree for all to see.

Standing tall at 20 meters, Sydney’s Christmas tree is adorned with 60,000 lights, 120 interactive stars, 200 stainless steel baubles, and a magnificent 1.5-meter star gracing its top.

Christmas Projections and Illuminations Prepare to be amazed as light projections transform the facades of some of Sydney’s most renowned historic buildings in Martin Place. The Street Light Disco banners will add a touch of magic to the area throughout the day and night.

Starting December 10th, Sydney Town Hall will be bathed in festive colors.

Boulevard of Light Pitt Street Mall will be transformed into a captivating winter wonderland, featuring over 100 living, potted Christmas trees and a dazzling overhead canopy of 62,000 lights. During the week of Christmas, these trees will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to support Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

Village Christmas Concerts Free concerts will be held in various locations: Rushcutters Bay (November 28th), Rosebery (November 29th), Alexandria (December 5th), and Surry Hills (December 6th). These family-friendly events will feature live music and a spectacular fireworks display.

Carollers and Choirs Throughout the holiday season, enchanting choir performances will take place in Pitt Street Mall on Thursday evenings leading up to Christmas and every night in December until Christmas Eve at the Martin Place Christmas Tree.

For a more traditional experience, the “Christmas at Sydney Town Hall” concert on December 15th offers a program of beloved festive music, accompanied by the majestic Grand Organ in Centennial Hall.

Christmas Shopping The City of Sydney is collaborating with Transport for NSW on the George Street Christmas program to attract visitors to the city throughout the festive season. In addition to a magnificent nine-meter-high Christmas tree on George Street and pop-up shops from local retailers, visitors can enjoy complimentary gift-wrapping stations, convenient Wi-Fi zones, lively entertainment, fashion parades, face painting, and digital photo booths.

Local village retailers are offering a wide array of unique gifts and bespoke fashion. Shoppers can participate in the “Best Shop Window” Instagram competition by sharing their favorite local shop window using the hashtags #sydxmas and #bestwindow on Instagram for a chance to win a generous A$2,000 shopping voucher.

Interested in learning more?

For the complete program of events, please visit sydneychristmas.com.au

Explore the WorkSmart Asia blog posts about the 2015 festive season, including:

Hashtags: #bestwindow, #sydxmas, #sydxmastree

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