WHAT TO DO IN GERO THIS CHRISTMAS

While the global-crisis-which-shall-not-be-named has seemed fairly removed from our blissful existence in 6530, it has stopped some of our favourite annual events from bringing joy to our festive season. But have no fear — there are plenty of other things to do which will unite Geraldton residents in the spirit of Christmas as we head into the final week before the most magical day of the year. 1. Christmas Craft Creations at Rocks Laneway Friday, December 18-Thursday, December 24. Local families have been invited to free activities, with no bookings required, thanks to Act-Belong-Commit. From today to Christmas Eve during 9.30am-11am and 11.30am-1pm time slots, join in “gratitude” Christmas cracker making, gumnut decorations, Christmas wreath creating and more with facilitators Sara, Fredriek, Glenda and Lizzy. 2. Beers, Burgers + Bogan Bingo in the Valley Friday, December 18. The Burnt Barrel restaurant is hosting a quirky shindig. Get a crew together and join them at Nukara Farm for a night of “pure, unadulterated debauchery” with a side of barbecue and brews from 6pm. Tickets are $65 per head and include dinner, bingo cards, the chance to win prizes, and live entertainment by Loose Change. Book ahead for the event at burntbarrel.com/shop. 3. AdvocateAG Launch Party Saturday, December 19. The event begins at 6pm and is set to be a fun-filled evening celebrating a plentiful harvest, the end of 2020m, and the official launch of AdvocateAG. RSVP via Facebook, with door sales of tickets available for adults at $20, under-18s at $10, and under-12s free. 4. Geraldton and Midwest Irish Club Christmas Dinner Saturday, December 19. The local Irish club will put on traditional fare on Saturday from 6pm, with The Bush Chooks performing from 7pm. Tickets cost $30 or $25 for members. Phone Mike on 0427 784 547 to book. 5. Christmas lights tour Sunday, December 20 See Geraldton's best Christmas lights displays with Midwest Adventure Tours, taking off from Geraldton Regional Art Gallery at 7pm. Tickets include the shuttle and three-hour tour as well as a complimentary drink and gift for both adults and children, all while singing Christmas carols along the way. Book ahead at fareharbor.com/embeds/book/midwestadventuretours/items. 6. Geraldton Carols by Candlelight Sunday, December 20 While the Maitland Park performance has had to be cancelled, locals won’t miss out on Christmas cheer, with the Follow the Star show to be posted online on Sunday. Masters of ceremonies Natasha Harradine and Sam de Vries will take viewers on a tour of Geraldton, with Mayor Shane Van Styn sharing Christmas wishes on behalf of the City of Greater Geraldton while the Geraldton City Band and a volunteer choir will lead the singing of some favourite Christmas carols. Holland Street School students, Rangeway Primary School students and Lighthouse Church Geraldton musicians will also perform, and students from Geraldton Grammar School, Nagle Catholic College, and Strathalbyn Christian College and local church representatives will do readings of the Christmas story. 7. Catch up with Father Christmas Friday, December 18-Thursday, December 24. A socially distanced photo with Santa is better than nothing, and we want to make sure he doesn’t catch so much as a cold before Christmas Eve. Jolly old Saint Nick can be found taking gift requests at Northgate Shopping Centre from girls and boys who have pre-booked, while a magical (digital) photo session at Stirlings Central is available for walk-ins. 8. Salvation Army Christmas wrapping Friday, December 18-Thursday, December 24. Take your gifts to the Salvation Army table between 11am and 2pm to have them wrapped for a gold-coin donation to the cause. Want have your own wrapping party? We hear old newspapers make fun and environmentally friendly Christmas gift coverings! 9. Harro’s Gaming Lounge Christmas Event Wednesday, December 23. Geraldton gamers unite for mini tournaments of Fortnite, Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros, with prizes available for the best Christmas and gaming-inspired outfits. The lounge has also organised a Secret Santa to keep the occasion festive, with attendees encouraged to bring along a small $5-$10 gift. Entry is $20 for the 2pm event. RSVP via Facebook. 10 Christmas Eve and Day church services. A Christmas activity guide would not be complete without the true meaning of Christmas. Take the family down to one of Geraldton’s many beautiful and welcoming churches to sing and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The best part is, it’s free.