North Gardens Reserve will be aglow with candles on December 17 from 7.30pm. 

Local band Black Cat will entertain the crowd before the carols start, with Dream Tree, the Federation University Pipe Band and other performers ready to lead Ballarat’s community in song. 

A collection for the 3BA Christmas Appeal will be held on the night, with the community able to donate toys and non-perishable goods at the candle tent, with money collection buckets circulating through the evening. 

Ballarat Carols coordinator Sonia Venema said the carols’ charitable focus would be highlighted.

“For the 3BA Christmas Appeal, businesses will be presenting hampers onstage,’ she said. “It’s great for us to have a really strong community focus and for Ballarat to see where their generous donations go. 

“It’s a fun community event which has a joyous family atmosphere.”