Celebrate Christmas with us at Carols by the Lake!

Join New Vine Lakes at Thomas H. Halton Park, Croudace Bay for a joyful evening of carols, community, and festive fun by the lake. This much-loved local event has something for everyone — from free kids’ activities and live musical performances to a heartwarming carol sing-along under the stars.

Bring a picnic and make yourself at home, or enjoy a delicious dinner from a great selection of food vendors. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the season together!

What's happening

From 6:00pm
Kick off the evening with live music and festive fun for the whole family!

  • Live Music – Enjoy pre-show entertainment from talented local musicians and community groups as you settle in for the night.
  • Free Kids’ Activities – Side-show alley games, face painting, Christmas craft, a mini zoo, kiddie karts, jumping castles, and a rock-climbing wall.
  • The Pretty Amazing Jono – Our roaming kids’ entertainer will be delighting families with fun and surprises throughout the evening.
  • Food for Sale – Grab dinner or a treat from a great variety of local vendors offering BBQ, hot meals, coffee, cold drinks, snow cones, and ice creams.
  • Community Stalls – Connect with local groups including Depression and Hope, and Belmont Community Care.
  • Candles – Free battery-operated candles (generously provided by Belmont Christian College) will be available at the "Candles" stations.

From 7:30pm

  • Carols Program – Sing along to all your Christmas favourites in a joyful carols celebration, led by the Carols by the Lake band.
  • The Pretty Amazing Jono – Returning for more fun during the carols program!
Parking and Access

The main parking area is near the playground at the end of Thomas H. Halton Park, with extra parking available at the boat ramp. Traffic controllers will be on site to help guide you.

Please allow extra time to find a park and make your way to the event. If you're walking or parking nearby, follow signage and use pedestrian crossings for safety.

Accessible parking is available close to the event. If you have mobility needs, let our team know — we’re happy to assist.

Carpooling or walking is encouraged where possible to reduce congestion.

Food Stalls
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🌭 Valentine Lions Club BBQ
🍔 Revelation BBQ
🥙 Hazam Gozleme
🥔 Mr Sprung Spuds
🥟 Mrs Wang’s Dumplings
🍦  Jimmy’s Ice Cream
🍭 Floss and Snow Cones
🥣 Yen's Yumm Banhs Vietnamese
🥤  Hello Hello Lemonade
🥖 Churros Madness

 

 

Candles / Songbooks / Chairs & Gazebos

Candles

Look for the clearly marked Candle Stalls located throughout the event, where you can pick up free battery-operated candles, generously provided by Belmont Christian College. 

Songbooks

Printed songbooks will be available alongside the candles and handed out throughout the evening. For a digital option, you can download the online songbook using the link below or on the night by scanning the QR codes displayed at the candle stalls.  Enjoy singing along in whichever way suits you best!  

Chairs & Gazebos

Feel free to bring a fold-up camp chair or picnic rug to make yourself comfortable. However, we kindly ask that you leave gazebos and other large shade structures at home so everyone can enjoy an unobstructed view of the stage.

Thank you to our Sponsors

Carols by the Lake is a free community event made possible by the generosity of our amazing sponsors.

From supporting activities and food stalls to the beautiful candlelight moments, our sponsors help create a magical Christmas evening for families across Lake Macquarie.

We are truly grateful for their partnership in bringing our community together to celebrate the season!