The holiday spirit has officially taken over the city, following the lighting of the 16-metre Parramatta Square Christmas tree.
This month, the City of Parramatta will be delivering a bumper Christmas program of festive decorations, live music, performances, roving entertainment and activities until December 23.
But alongside its range of festive activities, the City of Parramatta said it is also focusing on the gift of giving in the lead up to December 25.
As part of the 12 Days of Christmas Charity program, the Council will be supporting those in need through its different charitable initiatives.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Pierre Esber, who helped light the huge tree alongside his family, said the rising cost-of-living was making life tough for many people this Christmas.
“One of the great things about our community is how we come together to support each other,” Esber said.
“This initiative is about helping the organisations who help so many in our city and encouraging locals to consider how they too can give a helping hand.
“I’m very proud of charities like the Parramatta Women’s Shelter, Parramatta Mission, Ronald McDonald House Great Western Sydney, Turbans 4 Australia, High Street Youth Health Service, Karabi Community Development Services and Pathways Community Church for their work in assisting community members across our city, which is why we’re supporting these organisations.”
As part of the program, Esber along with other City of Parramatta Councillors and staff will visit local charities and community groups to help serve food, assist with packing and distributing food hampers and contribute to the festive cheer by gifting toys.
Residents are being encouraged to lend a helping hand by donating to one of the 11 Christmas Giving trees located across the Local Government Area (LGA), with all funds raised to go towards Ronald McDonald House Charities greater western Sydney.
Residents can also shop for a Christmas gift at one of the many unique businesses at the Good Gift Market, running from 2pm-8pm on December 7 in Centenary Square, to help make a positive difference in the community
Every Saturday from December 2 to 16, Phillip Lane will also light up at night for hours of dancing and family fun with a designated dance space, face painting, balloon twisting, outdoor seating and plenty of food.
For more information and the full Christmas program visit http://www.atparramatta.com/christmas.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.