Speers Point Park is expected to fill with thousands of people on Sunday for the family-friendly Lake Mac Carols.
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This year's carols event, kicking off at 6pm, features a stellar entertainment line-up including The Voice finalists Lara D and Sara De Bono, Golden Guitar award winner Troy Kemp, the Pacific Harmony Choir and children's entertainers Little Scallywagz.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said that given the current drought and bushfire crisis, the fireworks finale would not go ahead.
Instead, a Mayoral Minute will go before Lake Macquarie City Council next week seeking support to donate the $4500 intended for Sunday's fireworks show to drought-affected communities in the Upper Hunter.
"Fireworks unfortunately won't light up the sky at this year's Lake Mac Carols, but the money we donate will hopefully light up some lives during this difficult time for people in other parts of our region," Cr Fraser said.
"While I know a lot of families look forward to the fireworks display, I'm confident the community will understand this decision."
Jacqui Hemsley, the council's manager arts, culture and events, said visitors to this year's Speers Point Park event could download an electronic songbook of carols to be featured, either before the night or on-site using the park's free Wi-Fi. The electronic songbook and more information about the event will available from Friday at lakemac.com.au/lake-mac-christmas.
"We want everyone to sing along, join in the fun and get into the true spirit of Christmas with family and friends," Ms Hemsley said.
Radio 2HD host Richard King will provide emcee duties for Sunday's event. The Homegrown Markets will operate in the park from 4pm-8pm.
Food trucks will also be open throughout the evening. Alternatively, families are welcome to take along their own picnic.
"Kids can also expect a very special visit from Santa... but only if they've been good," Cr Fraser said.
The Mayoral Minute, to go before the council on Monday, calls for the $4500 to be allocated to the 'Our Shout This Christmas' program and the 'We LIVE Here' investment card scheme.
"The Our Shout this Christmas initiative aims to raise $500,000 from donations to allow 500 drought-impacted households to each receive a $1000 'We LIVE Here' card to spend over the Christmas period," Cr Fraser said in the Mayoral Minute.
"It would be a wonderful and meaningful way for council to provide support to Upper Hunter communities affected by drought, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas."
Limited parking will be available at the venue, with further free off-street parking nearby off Lakeview Street in Speers Point.
Due to the ongoing presence of bushfire smoke in the area, people with respiratory conditions are advised to check air quality conditions prior to attending Lake Mac Carols.