The region’s city of beaches has welcomed the spirit of Christmas with a huge turn out for it’s much-loved annual events.
Caloundra came alive with a flurry of entertainment, food and Christmas cheer as thousands of people gathered in the main street, in turn supporting a host of local businesses.
The Caloundra Christmas Street Party received and “overwhelming” amount of support in 2022, despite its original date being postponed due to severe weather.
This year’s event included a Christmas Twilight Market and extended shopping hours for local business, giveaways and Prizes, live performances, dancing and music, plus children’s activities.
Bulcock street was also glistening with festive decorations are part of a shopfront competition.
The Caloundra Chamber of Commerce CEO Brady Sullivan has hailed the event a great success and a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together to celebrate Christmas.
“The Chamber and Caloundra Markets team were pleased to see thousands of people enjoying the event that not only supported the stall holders but also the bricks and mortar retailers that are the heart of Caloundra CBD,” Mr Brady said.
“We are looking forward to continuing to build on the Christmas storefront decoration competition and the Caloundra Christmas Street Party in 2023.
“We want to thank The Downtown Caloundra Group for running the entertainment while the Caloundra Markets team, supported by the Caloundra chamber worked on creating a wonderful festive atmosphere.”
Sunshine Coast division two councillor Terry Landsberg thanked all those involved who made the event possible.
“I’m really pleased that so many businesses took the opportunity to stay open and extend their hours to service thousands of people that walked Bulcock Street for the markets, lights display and Christmas entertainment,” Cr Landsberg said.
“Our local school and community groups did such a fantastic job of entertaining people, particularly with the choir and dance shows.
“It’s such a great time of year to enjoy and appreciate our weather, our beaches and our local businesses.
Cr Landsberg said part of the event featured voting for the best storefront Christmas decoration competition, which was a collaboration between the Caloundra Business Alliance, Caloundra Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Caloundra Task Force.
“Winners were announced on December 19, with Mint Espresso Bar voted people’s choice, along with prize winners Sweet Charlotte Studio, Milano Gelateria, The Art Hub Sunshine Coast and Fantastic Ms Fox for their efforts.”
Party facts
- More than 100 stalls – including street food, artesian stalls.
- Thousands of locals and tourists attended.
- Roving entertainment and carols, plus rides.
- Local schools and dance troops performing on stage.
- Santa meets and greets.
