The festive season is fast approaching, and Narrandera Shire has a program of community events to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year.

Festivities begin with Christmas Markets on Sunday 16 November and Sunday 21 December at Marie Bashir Park. Organised by the Lions Club of Narrandera, the markets will feature a range of local stalls, food, and entertainment, providing an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together and support local makers and producers in the lead-up to Christmas.

The Fusion Children’s Advent Pageant will also return this year on Friday 28 November from 9.30am, bringing colour and excitement to Marie Bashir Park with a parade of local school children telling the original Christmas Story.

Featuring performances by With One Riverina and the Narrandera Community Band, Carols in the Park will be held from 6pm on Sunday 14 December at Marie Bashir Park. With fantastic local talent, a community sing-along and a visit from Santa, locals and visitors alike are invited to enjoy a relaxed and festive evening under the stars.

The Barellan community will also celebrate with Light Up Barellan on Thursday 4 December, marking the official lighting of the Barellan Christmas Tree. The family-friendly evening will feature carols, a community barbeque, and plenty of festive cheer, bringing residents together to celebrate the season in true country style.

Adding to the celebrations, council will launch the 2025 Christmas lights competition next week, inviting residents, streets, and businesses to light up the shire. Prizes include Shop Local vouchers, a street sign for Best Street, and a trophy for the Best Business. Registrations will open via council’s website on Monday 17 November, with further details on how to enter and voting released soon.

From 19 to 23 December, the Narrandera Lions train will operate Christmas tours, taking passengers on a guided circuit of all the entrants in the annual Christmas lights competition. The tours provide a unique way for families to experience the community’s festive spirit and creativity, as homes and businesses across the shire light up for the season. Tickets go on sale on 1 December and are available from Trims Collective, 89 East Street, Narrandera.

To close out the year, Retro Rewind: Countdown to 2026 will take place at 6pm on Wednesday 31 December, featuring fireworks at 10pm, live music and DJ, amusement rides for all ages, licensed bar, food vendors with street eats and gourmet bites, glow roller skating, and a retro-inspired dance theme.

Narrandera Shire Council invites residents and visitors to enjoy the festive season across the shire and to support the local community by attending the wide range of events on offer.

For event details and updates, visit www.narrandera.com.au.