A SUDDEN drop in the temperature did not dampen the Christmas spirit Saturday night.
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Ararat’s Christmas Carol event at Alexandra Park drew crowds to sing along with the Sing Australia –Ararat choir, locals Jan and Derek Pope, Leanne McCready, Marian College’s Gemma and Mia, and others.
The Ararat City Band provided live music and played throughout the evening.
The Ararat Y’s Mens Club organised the event and member Bruce Bartlett MCd.
“Even though the weather’s turned sour there is still quite a turn out,” he said.
Club treasurer Ray Hurstfield agreed.
“They always come out and enjoy the night,” he said.
“We put a good program on and it’s a lot of fun. We enjoy doing it for them, we do all the barbecuing and it’s a real family atmosphere.”
Ararat SES member Lucas Kussowski said the family atmosphere was a great opportunity to engage with residents.
“We participate in the carols every year and it’s a way to reaffirm our position in the community, and show them what we have,” he said.
The SES had a very important role throughout the evening, one which Mr Kussowski said they were “absolutely” excited to perform.
They drove Santa Claus in at 8.45pm and helped him distribute lollies to excited children.
Fireworks were held at the end of the night, which people stuck around for despite the dropping temperature.
“It’s just a bit cold but you can’t change the weather,” said resident Nicole Bendelle.