The much-loved Emerald Street Christmas Lights in Emu Plains will once again shine this year, making a return for the first time since 2017. The magical display promises to bring some festive spirit to the local community, whilst continuing to raise valuable funds for charity.
“We have been doing the Christmas lights display on a larger scale since 2008. We had last year off as I went to run the New York Marathon for my 50th birthday and we did not have enough time to set up when we got back. So, this year will be our 11th year, but we did do it much smaller for many years before this” said Organiser Linda Hernando to the Emu and Leonay Gazette.
This year’s display will include a new photo opportunity prop that was designed by Linda and one she hopes no other display will have. They would like the community to have an interactive experience where memories are made taking photos. Keep an eye out as they may just have another hide the elf competition, which was a huge success in 2017.
They are hoping to have the Christmas lights up and running on the 1st of December, however, this will depend on the weather and time, as they both work fulltime. Once set up, the lights are turned on at about 7:30pm till 9:30pm during the week and later, on the weekend. They’re aiming to have their big night, The Christmas Spectacular, on the 21st of December and this will be confirmed soon.
“Sadly, we lost our wonderful Santa to illness this year, so it just won’t be the same without him. He had been selflessly donating his time with us since 2012 and he will be greatly missed. We are not sure about Santa and are still tossing up different ideas” explained Linda.
Once again, they will be raising money for Bear Cottage, which is a children’s hospice. Having done this since 2008, to date they have raised $31,995 for the charity. This year they would also like to donate the funds that they raise from
The Christmas Spectacular to the Salvation Army, in honour of Terry (AKA Santa) who was a supporter of the organisation.
“What I enjoy most is the creative aspect of it and the joy it gives to those who come and see it. I like trying to change it up a little each year and adding a few new things. I love it when the regulars come along and notice all the new things. We have met and interacted with so many wonderful people over the years and I have seen children go from babies and turn into teenagers” Linda cheered.
For more information about this enchanting event, search ‘Christmas Lights – Emerald St, Emu Plains’ on Facebook or @christmaslightsemuplains on Instagram.