The Christmas season is set to sparkle with festive celebrations kicking off across the New England – including the annual Christmas Lights competition in Gunnedah, and the Christmas Carnival in Guyra.
In Gunnedah, the community is once again being invited to deck the halls, houses, and shopfronts for the annual Christmas Lights Competition. The friendly contest has become a much-loved local tradition, with residents going all out to spread cheer and creativity.
There are six categories in this year’s competition, including Best Decorated House, Best Farm Gate or Paddock Display, Best Christmas Theme in a Village, Santa Street, Judges’ Choice Award, and Best Dressed Shopfront Window. Each category comes with a prize of Gunny Money Gift Cards, with Santa Street winners also receiving a plaque.
Mayor Colleen Fuller said the competition brings a welcome dose of joy at the end of a challenging year.
“It has been a difficult year for many due to rising living costs and the two flood events in August, so it is my hope that this lights competition will bring some Christmas cheer to our community,” Cr Fuller said.
“I’m excited to see a new category in the 2025 competition – a Best Farm Gate or Paddock Display. This is a great opportunity for our rural landholders to use their ingenuity to put on a fantastic display that is visible from the roadside. I look forward to seeing what our residents create this year.”
Entries for the Gunnedah Christmas Lights Competition close at 12pm on Monday, 8 December. Judging will take place from 9 to 11 December, and winners will be announced at a presentation in The Smithurst forecourt on Monday, 15 December at 5:30pm. Entry details are available at thecivic.com.au.
Further north, Guyra will come alive with festive magic as Bradley Street transforms into a Christmas wonderland for the annual Guyra Christmas Carnival on Friday, 5 December from 4pm to 8pm.
The much-loved community event, presented in partnership with Guyra Rotary, promises a full evening of fun for families. Santa Claus will make a special appearance, while children can jump aboard the Jingle Express train and enjoy festive activities throughout the evening.
A magician and live performers will entertain the crowd, and market and food stalls will line the street with plenty to eat, browse and enjoy.
Continuing a long-standing local tradition, the Guyra Christmas Carnival brings residents and visitors together in the true spirit of Christmas, celebrating community, connection, and the joy of the season.
Know of a Christmas event the region should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au or message us on Facebook.
Advertising with New England Times is a cost effective and reliable way to reach New England locals who are interested and engaged. Find out more here.