Murihiku is set for a month of festive fun with a stellar line-up of events designed so everyone can join in, regardless of their age. At the heart of it all are the local groups, volunteers, and teams whose mahi brings the season to life. It’s their passion and hard work that turn ideas into the wonderful experiences families remember.
ILT is proud to fund this wide range of events. Our support helps keep many of them free or low cost, making it easier for our community to come together.
The season began with the Southland Santa Parade, where plenty of colour and music filled the streets. Our team also got to experience the fun of being in the parade with ILT’s Sammy the Seal float.
The Murihiku Christmas Tree Festival is on at ILT Stadium Southland until 18 December. Presented by our friends at Waihopai City Lions, it’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit, see some stunning trees and support worthy causes. Entry is by gold coin donation, and the festival is open weekdays 4pm–8pm & weekends 10am–4pm.
Another great option for the school holidays is Christmas Capers in the Mall organised by the Y Southland. Find the sneaky reindeer hiding around the mall and go into the draw for a Prezzy Card. Grab the clue sheet at the entrance of Invercargill Central.
We’re excited to host our Over 70s Christmas Dinners, next week, where 700 guests will gather at Ascot Park Hotel for a three-course meal, entertainment, and time together. Since the dinners began in 1993, we have served over 25,000 meals, creating a tradition that honours our older residents and their ongoing contribution to the city.
Later in the month, Ascot Park Racecourse will be humming with Christmas at the Races. For our younger tamariki, the Merry Little Xmas Concert will be on at ILT Stadium Southland on Sunday 14 December. The show acts as a preview to the main event, the ILT Variety Show on 17 and 18 December, which celebrates an impressive 25 years.
Christmas in the Park is still going ahead in Queens Park on Sunday 14 December, the wild weather couldn’t stop this one! It’s free to attend, with music, food trucks and games for all, kicking off at 12pm.
For ILT, supporting Christmas in Murihiku means backing the people and groups who pour their energy into these events year after year, so the magic of Christmas can be shared across our whole community.
