Council & Politics
28 November, 2024
Ararat council, local businesses join forces to spread the festive spirit
Spread the Christmas spirit with the Reverse Advent Calendar.
A festive fever has spread across Ararat with even the council's top leader swept up in the movement.
The Ararat Rural City Council is kicking off Christmas by throwing its support behind the 2024 reverse advent calendar.
CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the council was proud to be a part of such a good cause.
"It's imperative we support our community and ensure that everyone has a joyful and fulfilling holiday season," Dr Harrison said.
"By working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling."
To participate, Dr Harrison said community members can pick up a box from the Ararat Rural City Council municipal offices at 59 Vincent Street in Ararat, Zest Living at 148 Barkly Street in Ararat, or Stawell Toyota.
Non-perishable items can be placed in the box and dropped off before December 20 at the above locations and the Ararat Fitness Centre and Ararat Visitor's Information Centre.
Donated items will be given to a local relief agency and distributed to a family in need.
"Donating items like food, toiletries, and gifts this Christmas season is a powerful way to spread kindness and hope," Dr Harrison said.
"Council is proud to be partnering with and supporting the Ararat and Stawell Reverse Advent Calendar."
To continue the festive spirit, a two-day Christmas market will be held outside the Ararat Town Hall on Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7.
"The Christmas Market has been organised to offer local handicrafters and small gift businesses an extra avenue for Christmas sales, as well as provide our community a chance to get together and enjoy the festive atmosphere which the annual lighting of our Christmas tree brings," Dr Harrison said.
"There are a number of other excellent community events being held over the same Friday and weekend, and we encourage everyone to get out and discover the variety of activities our local organisations have to offer."
The inaugural Ararat Christmas Market will see numerous local businesses sell their wares including Christmas gifts, artisan crafts, food and wine from 4-7pm on December 6 and 10am-2pm on December 7.
Dr Harrison said a highlight of the evening portion of the market is the lighting of the Ararat Christmas tree, which will soon be erected on the corner of Vincent and High streets.