The much-loved community event Bethlehem Live will return this year in celebration of the festive season, with Christmas carols a new addition to the program.
The community will be treated to four nights of interactive-fun and enjoyment when the event kicks off from 13 to 16 December.
The popular Christmas experience had more than 10,000 visitors through the gates when it was last held in 2019, before a short hiatus due to Covid-19.
The concept of Bethlehem Live was formed by the Combined Churches of Bundaberg in partnership with Scripture Union Australia.
Bethlehem Live director Brian Robertson said the heart behind Bethlehem Live was to provide a free and inclusive Christmas event that was also interactive.
Brian said the story of Christmas would be brought to life in a unique way.
“This year we will have the Bethlehem Village, which will be much the same, with a couple of new stalls, and our nativity play with all the wise men and camels,” Brian said.
“The new addition this year is that between 8.15 pm and 8.50 pm we will have a carol presentation each night, where the community can join in singing carols like Away in a Manger and Silent Night.
“We’ve invited four different churches from around the Bundaberg Region to perform on different nights.”
Bethlehem Live has become a popular tradition for local families wanting to experience the spirit of Christmas, while sharing a glimpse of what the city of Bethlehem might have looked like more than 2000 years ago.
Brian said it also offered practical care and support to those within the local community who may be doing it tough.
“Bethlehem Live presents the true meaning of Christmas,” he said.
“As a pastor I believe it’s important to include the true meaning of Christmas.
“Bethlehem Live also demonstrates churches in our district coming together to bless the community.
“It's also an opportunity for families to come together and enjoy this special time of year with one another.”
Bundaberg Central State School will again host Bethlehem Live at its grounds, on 13 to 16 December from 6 pm to 9 pm.
For more information click here.
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