Penrith’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting event will be held on Friday, November 13.
The event date was locked in this week with Penrith CBD Corporation confirming the much-loved tradition will be back on High Street between 5pm and 9pm.
This year’s theme brings a childhood magic to Penrith, with a ‘Toy Story’-inspired pantomime, a sneaky Grinch or two, roaming Christmas characters and plenty of surprises along the way.
The main stage, supported by PAWS Studio, will showcase the incredible talent of local young performers and community groups.
The evening kicks off at 5pm with the Penrith High School Selective Ensemble, followed by local dance groups, the Riverlands Choir and a fantastic programme of festive entertainment for the whole family.
Santa will arrive at 8pm to light the tree in Memory Park.
There is plenty more to explore, with more than 80 market and food stalls, free children’s activities, Christmas characters roaming throughout the event and displays from the RFS and SES. Families can also enjoy fun activities thanks to Adams and Partners, with much more to discover throughout the evening.
The community can also get behind six local charities competing in the much-anticipated Gingerbread and Beyond Challenge. The charities will go head-to-head in a creative gingerbread-themed competition, with cash prizes helping the winning charities deliver a little extra Christmas cheer to those they support.
Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn said the event was a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together while showcasing everything Penrith has to offer.
“The Christmas Tree Lighting is one of the highlights of our local calendar. It brings families together, celebrates our talented young people and gives our local businesses an incredible opportunity to connect with thousands of people from across our community,” she said.
“With an expected crowd of around 20,000 people, it is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to put their name in front of local families, build awareness and be part of something that creates lasting memories for our community.
“We are incredibly grateful to ALA Law, Penrith City Council and our supporting sponsors, including All Purpose Tiles, Outback Steakhouse and Kwik Copy, for helping bring this special event to life. We are also thankful to PAWS Studio, Adams and Partners and all the local businesses and community groups who contribute to making the night so memorable.”
With a crowd of this size, the Christmas Tree Lighting offers businesses a valuable opportunity to connect with the local community, increase brand visibility and demonstrate their support for Penrith.
Sponsorship opportunities and selected market and food stall spaces are still available. Penrith CBD Corporation is inviting businesses to join the event, support the community and be part of one of Penrith’s biggest festive celebrations.
Whether you’re looking to showcase your products, introduce your business to new customers or support a much-loved community event, there is still an opportunity to be involved.
Email connect@penrithcbdcorp.com.au or phone 4722 5556.
Troy has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.