Sing loud at Carols by Candlelight

Carols by Candlelight in Kuirau Park last year. PHOTO/FILE

Up to 1000 people are expected to gather at Kuirau Park tonight "as long as the weather is hot" for the annual Carols by Candlelight Christmas celebration.

Organiser David Elliot believes the singalong is always special, with a fun atmosphere, perfect for the many families who gather to sing carols, light candles and enjoy the night's entertainment.

This year the programme features the Rotorua Symphonic Band, with choir conductor Evelyn Falconer, leading the Malfroy Primary choir and Western Heights High School choir.

Also performing are soloists Nadia Cooper and Armeleigh Manktellow.

The site is bigger this year, having been moved to the front of the covered bridge between the two lakes at Kuirau Park.

Rotorua Lakes Council had connected power to the new site, which has helped organisers immensely, said Mr Elliot.

Proceeds from the gold coin donation will once again go towards the Rotorua Hospital's Chaplains Trust, which works with patients and families in their time of need.

The Lions Club of Rotorua Geyserland is organising the event alongside NZME and local businesses AVT Lighting, which is putting on a special light show, and Andy's Marquee and Party Hire, "who have donated a marquee and helped organisers for many years," said Mr Elliot.

Bring along your song sheets published by the Rotorua Daily Post, rugs, warm clothing and if you don't want to buy a candle, you can take your own.

Food stalls and coffee vendors are on site the entire evening.

The event will only be cancelled if the weather is wet, or the site waterlogged, and if necessary, cancellation notices will be announced during the day on 97.5 The Hits and on the Rotorua Daily Post website and Facebook page.

What: Carols by Candlelight
Where: Kuirau Park
When: Tonight 7pm - 9.30pm
Cost: Gold coin