Celebrating the joy of Christmas at Carols on the Hill

By Josh Low

Despite the threat bad weather posed early in the day, the sun emerged and more than 350 people came together to celebrate the joy of Christmas at the annual Carols on the Hill.

Now run for the seventh consecutive year, the event was held on Saturday 9 December on Guilford Young College’s School Oval, hosted by the Archdiocese of Hobart and supported by the City of Hobart.

Featuring local musical artists and groups performing many well-known Christmas carols and songs, the evening also saw a host of children taking part in a live Nativity play.

Food vans and a range of activities for children, including face painting and a petting zoo added to the festive spirit as fun was had by one and all.

To support the ‘St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal’, gifts were donated and placed under the large Giving Tree to be distributed to those experiencing financial hardships during the festive season.

The Francis Picnic Competition was also held on the night, with picnic judges determining which group prepared the best waste-free picnic.

Archbishop Julian expressed his gratitude to all those involved in putting the event together, as well as those in attendance for sharing in the festivities.

“It’s always so wonderful to see people, and families in particular, coming together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas,” he said.

“May God’s blessing come upon you all and bring you peace and joy this Christmas season.”