By Prealene Khera
From Santa’s Kingdom to the Grinch’s hideout, a Wollert initiative is set to bring the best of Christmas together this festive season.
Following last year’s magical success, the highly anticipated Stardust Way Christmas Lights event is back again for five days of merriment.
Running from December 20 to 24, families will be able to take pictures with Santa, the Grinch and other North Pole residents, while enjoying a spectacular display of lights adorning houses on the street.
According to event organiser Renee Gaitanis, the annual affair has become a Christmas hallmark for the community – with support from locals key for its continued success.
“I’m so grateful to the community for the [love] they’ve shown us and ask them to keep backing us,” she said.
“In 2023, we had nearly 4000 people attend which is amazing, so if we could get a similar number this year that would be great.”
Ms Gaitanis said attendees would not only have an entertaining experience, but would also help raise money for the Starlight Foundation.
The event will include food tucks, face painting and plenty of photo opportunities – with some fake snow adding to the fun.
Although the event initially faced uncertainty, pending approval from the Whittlesea council, Ms Gaitanis said she was appreciative that an agreement had been reached.
“We would have liked to have run the event for longer than what’s been allowed but I’m happy that the council has worked with me in ensuring the event goes ahead,” she said.
A Whittlesea council spokesperson said the permit had been granted with all parties in mind.
“The permit includes a temporary road closure of Stardust Way for limited times, carefully aligned with [Environment Protection Authority] guidelines and enables the event to be held safely whilst ensuring minimal disruption to local residents,” the spokesperson said.
“In the lead-up to granting this permit, council surveyed residents in Stardust Way and surrounding streets. The valuable feedback received played a key role in shaping the decision, balancing the joy of the event with the needs of the local residents.”
Stardust Way Christmas Lights will start at 6 pm on all five days, and will finish at 10pm on most days.
For more information, search for the ‘Stardust Way Christmas Lights’ page on Facebook.
