Frankston Christmas celebrations: Annual Festival of Lights cancelled but Magical Christmas calendar set to bring in the cheer
Christmas will look a little different for Frankston in 2020 but council isn’t letting the COVID-19 pandemic get in the way of festive cheer, with plenty of activities lined up for residents to see in the silly season. Check out what’s in store for the region.
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Frankston’s famous Christmas Festival of Lights has been cancelled for 2020 but there’s still a long list of ways residents can deck the halls.
COVID-19 restrictions mean the spectacular event can’t go ahead but festive fun is still lined up for the region as part of council’s Magical Christmas calendar spanning from November 28 until Christmas Eve.
The celebrations kick off on November 28 with a free concert featuring crowd-favourite actors Rob Mills and Lucy Durak, which can be accessed through the Frankston Events Facebook page and Frankston Arts Centre YouTube channel.
Frankston’s century-old Norfolk Pine tree will still be decorated with stunning lights and a star, brightening each night at 8pm from November 29.
Between November 29 and December 21 keen treasure hunters can scan the CBD in a bid to find 10 decorations with QR codes.
Those who follow the trail and unjumble the mystery code word will go into the draw to win one of four $50 vouchers to spend at a Frankston business.
On December 11 and 12 little ones are invited to join a group of friendly elves for an adventure to the North Pole at Frankston Arts Centre.
There will be several opportunities for happy snaps but bookings are essential for the 30 minute experience at the Frankston Arts Centre’s Curved Wall Gallery.
Council is also compiling a list of beautiful light displays across the region’s homes for people to visit, with keen decorators encouraged to register their residence as part of the fun.
The recently reopened Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre (PARC) is also offering free, family friendly and all abilities outdoor workouts for the month of December.
Frankston residents are also encouraged to visit the magical Christmas workshops — to be announced soon — and purchase a Christmas tree from a local community group.
The Baden Powell, Ballam Park and Seaford Scout groups are offering trees priced between $65 and $85 with delivery optional.
“We know the tree lighting is a tradition many in our community hold dear. Although
we can’t gather together for the occasion this year, prerecording the special (concert) is
a way of bringing the magic to you and your family, wherever you are,” Frankston Council chief executive Phil Cantillon said.
“Our Christmas elves are also working on a special walk-through experience for the
Frankston Arts Centre. I hear it is going to be quite the magical wonderland.”
“Remember to shop local this Christmas and support our businesses to get back on
their feet.”
For program details visit Discover Frankston and to keep up to date with COVID — 19 restrictions, visit the Frankston Events Facebook and Instagram pages.
brittany.goldsmith@news.com.au
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