Santa Claus is coming to town… and he’s bringing Australia’s leading lady, Rhonda Burchmore, with him.

Following last year’s cancellation, Manningham Carols by Candlelight will return to Ruffey Lake Park on Friday 10 December with Rhonda Burchmore as MC, a string of international and local performers and a selection of Melbourne’s best food trucks.

Manningham Mayor Cr Michelle Kleinert said this year’s event marked 40 years of Carols by Candlelight in Manningham.

“Carols is such a magical event where we’re surrounded by family and friends among a sea of glow sticks, singing some of our favourite songs together,” she said.

“Often people tell us it doesn’t feel like Christmas until they’ve been to Carols, so we’re looking forward to welcoming our community back and celebrating together.”

This year’s event will kick off with pre-show entertainment from popular children’s entertainers Bethany Fisher and local favourites, The Veneto Club Choir. The main concert will feature legendary entertainer Rhonda Burchmore, some of our best up and coming local entertainers and Santa.

This year’s Carols will go ahead under strict COVID safe conditions with the area fenced and capacity limits. All attendees need to pre-register their attendance before the event.

All attendees over the age of 12 years and two months will need to provide proof of full vaccination and check in via QR code upon entry.

Fireworks are scheduled around 10.00pm. Please ensure all pets are secured in a safe and comfortable location to avoid any distress.

Road closure and parking restrictions will be in place in streets surrounding Ruffey Lake Park. Residents will be informed about road closures and permits before the event.

Manningham Carols by Candlelight is Manningham’s biggest and most popular, free public event. It is proudly sponsored by Barry Plant and Silver Star Motors.

For more information and to register for a free ticket, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/carols