It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Parramatta, as the city gets ready to celebrate the holiday without restrictions for the first time in two years.
Christmas trees are up, decorations hung and letters to Santa written as the countdown to Christmas finally begins.
Parramatta locals eager to get into the festive spirit will be pleased to hear a range of celebrations will be taking place across the Local Government Area (LGA) this December.
“Our suburbs and CBD are sparkling with lights and decorations – including our giant 12-metre Christmas tree in Parramatta Square; it’s a must see!” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Donna Davis said.
“While you’re there, you can check out our carollers who will be bringing some cheer throughout December. Better still, you can film a video with our ‘virtual’ Santa on Instagram to go in the draw to win one of five Christmas Stay & Play packages in Parramatta.”
Plenty of carol events will be running across the LGA, with Christmas Markets also set to take place in Centenary Square on December 14 and 15.
There will also be a variety of festive entertainment at Riverside Theatres throughout the month, including River City Voices’ ‘Slam Messiah’ on December 16 and Sydney Comedy Club on December 17.
The celebrations come after a rocky two years that saw restrictions interfere with community festivities.
Although there’s “no doubt” it’s been a tough couple of years for the Parramatta community, Cr Davis said holidays like Christmas help to bring people together.
“The crowds are returning to our city as work colleagues, friends and family gather for Christmas and parties,” she said.
“One thing the pandemic has taught us is to be more grateful for the simple things – like spending quality time with our friends and family. This is the perfect time of year to do that, and to get out and enjoy everything our great city has to offer.”
This December, residents are also being encouraged to shop local, with City of Parramatta launching its 2022 Good Gift Guide, which provides a wide range of gift ideas and a list of local businesses.
“Local businesses are the backbone of City of Parramatta and Christmas is the perfect time to show your support for them,” she said.
“The best and most unique gifts are usually the ones found locally – especially for those who already have everything!”
To find out more, go to 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.