Young and old enjoyed the family entertainment at Camp Street, with craft activities, photos, food and stage entertainment. 

Brooke Hinchcliffe has been coming with her children for the past few years and this year dressed up her dog Bella and brought her along too.

“It was my daughter’s idea to dress up Bella,” she said.

“She gets spoilt at Christmas time too – she gets a present from me and a present from Santa.”

Ms Hinchcliffe said this was her favourite time of year.

For parents Kirrily Hartnell and James Maher, they were excited to be celebrating Christmas with their 16-month-old daughter, Stephanie Maher.

“This is her first real Christmas,” Ms Hartnell said.

“She’s saying words like Santa and loves the reindeers.”

The Ballarat Centre of Music and Arts dancers were helping children enjoy the entertainment and roaming among guests spreading the cheer.

Dancer Libby McKew has been involved for the past four years and said she loved the night.

“We get to go and dance with the kids and help out on stage,” she said.

“It’s a bit colder than last year but we’re still having lots of fun. It’s great to be part of a community event.”

nicole.cairns@fairfaxmedia.com.au