Every culture celebrates with light and joy around this time of year. Australia’s heritage, deeply rooted in Christian traditions, is evolving with the integration of holidays and festivities from around the world.
Today, Australians celebrate Diwali all over the country, and Hannukah is embedded within inner-city enclaves where the menorah features prominently during this Jewish high holiday. But it’s Christmas when lights, markets and festivities are elevated to a national celebration, that continues on to the newest holiday on the calendar, Kwanza, celebrated by Africans particularly in America from December 26 to January 1.
After a year of lockdowns in Victoria, the state is opening up, and nowhere more so than around Tarneit and the City of Wyndham. Homes are lit up and laws decorated with inflatables and animated installations. Meanwhile, Christmas markets and more are close by in cosmopolitan Werribee and free events bring the entire community together in a celebration of family and the wonder of the season.
Let there be light
Throughout December, 8pm onwards, Various locations
Gather the children for a wonderous drive around Wyndham to see the inventive and inspiring lights of the city. There are plenty of locations throughout the city featured on the Mamma Knows West website, with eight locations in Tarneit alone.
MADE on Watton Christmas Market
Saturday 18 – Sunday 19 December 2021, 10am – 4pm, Wyndham Cultural Centre, 177 Watton Street, Werribee
This market gets a distinctly Christmas spin during the weekend before December 25. Featuring locally made jewellery, ceramics, and candles as well as homewares, beauty products, and more, it’s a great way to give with love while catching up with locals.
Elf – free in the park
Saturday, 18 December 2021, 5:00pm – 7:30pm, Baden Powell Reserve, Baden Powell Drive, Tarneit
This Saturday, Tarneit hosts the Will Ferrell classic Christmas movie free movie in the park for families of all ages from 5pm. Bookings are essential.
Santa Claus is coming to Wyndham
Friday, December 24 2021, 2:30pm – 7:45pm, throughout Wyndham
Bringing his sack full of lollies for children of all ages, Santa takes to the streets of Wyndham before returning overnight with toys and presents. A special treat provided by the council, it’s the final opportunity to see the big man in the red suit this Christmas.
Put on a feast
Throughout December 2021, Opening Hours, Tarneit Gardens – 747 Tarneit Rd, Tarneit
Speciality stores, party hire, meats, baked goods and fresh produce retailers at Tarneit Gardens will help you host your very own Christmas lunch or dinner with tips and advice on creating something truly spectacular and eternally memorable. With events throughout the month including photos at Santa’s Workshop, decorating the perennial holiday favourite, gingerbread men, and a make your own reindeer food station on December 23, you’ll be set to welcome Rudolph and his friends in style. For more information, see the Tarneit Gardens Website.
The celebrations continue on to New Year’s Eve with fireworks, seafood and champagne, culminating in Australia Day celebrations throughout the country and more traditions in the making for newcomers and the adventurous alike.
To find out more about Verdant Hill and how to celebrate in the west this holiday season, contact Hannah Shah, Estate Manager, on 0428 072 703 or email hshah@coreprojects.com.au.