Many proud parents listened to the angelic sounds of the Canterbury Primary School choir as they sang “Jingle Bells”. Helen and Amy Hill singing “Mary Had a Baby”, then Stephen Coutts and Samantha Robertson singing “O Holy Night” could have been on the stage of the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, such was the quality of their voices. Of course, the fine musicians of the band accompanied not only the performers, but also the community carols that enabled everyone to join in with their favourite Christmas songs. The Tongan choir closed the night with their harmonious Tongan Christmas Carols and a triumphal conclusion with the Hallelujah Chorus.
It was lovely to see so many children enjoying themselves, having their face painted, petting the farm animals, running around on the lawns of the Canterbury Gardens, swaying their glow sticks to the music and cuddling in with mum or dad as the dark set in. We need more family events like this in Canterbury.
Proceeds from the Carols in Canterbury Gardens is being split between the Eastern Emergency Relief Network and the Family Access Network.
If you missed this year’s event, Carols in Canterbury is held in Canterbury Gardens on the first Sunday in December each year. Children’s activities start at 6.30pm. Carols program begins at 7.30pm. It’s a free event for all the family.
Sponsored by the Canterbury Council of Churches and the City of Boroondara.
Children were enthralled by the talking camel and his spitting story about carrying the three wise men across the desert sands to Bethlehem.
Crepes, icecreams, fresh strawberries with cream were special treats available in the park, along with a sausage sizzle and coffee or hot chocolate stalls.