The festive fun kicks off in Tamworth with the annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree, in Fitzroy Plaza, Wednesday 4 December, starting at 5.30pm. This family-friendly event will feature performances from Dance Dynamics and the Tamworth Community Dance Academy, as well as live music by the Tamworth Regional Conservatorium of Music and the Tamworth and District Highland Society City Pipe Band.

The event will also feature over 25 market stalls offering a range of goods, including face painting, barbecue food, gifts, and more. Santa Claus will visit the Baiada Santa’s Workshop.

In the lead-up to Christmas, the Baiada Santa’s Workshop will be open on Saturday 7 and 14 December, from 9am to 12pm. Children can enjoy craft activities, create Christmas decorations and write letters to Santa.

The Manilla Community Christmas Carols will be at Manilla Central School on Monday 2 December at 6pm. A variety of school groups and Manilla Choir will perform. Manilla Swimming Club is hosting a bbq. 

Manilla Christmas Carnival will be at Rotary Park on Friday 6 December starting at 6pm. Enjoy performances from the community choir and Splashpool, plus a special visit from Santa Claus. The evening will include the lighting of the Christmas tree. 

Join the festive fun at Christmas on Gate at Kootingal on Saturday, 7 December, from 5pm. This popular event will feature live entertainment, a classic car display, and a sizzling sausage sizzle, plus a festive market filled with local goods.

In East Tamworth on Saturday December 7, St Peter's Anglican Church South Tamworth will host Carols on the Grass at Anzac Park from 5.30pm - 8.30pm. There will be food trucks, face painting and more.

With these exciting events and more happening across the region, it’s truly beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Don’t miss out on the celebrations - come along and share in the joy and spirit of the season with your community.