Centacare Evolve Housing’s Brighton Christmas Block Party in late November brought together over 35 organisations, business and stallholders at the Brighton Civic Centre.

While it rained heavily throughout the day, this didn’t dampen the Christmas spirit of the 850 people who braved the weather to attend the community event supported by Brighton Council. The Brighton Christmas Block Party is hosted annually by Centacare Evolve Housing which focuses on bringing the local community together to celebrate and connect in the lead up to the holiday season. The day was filled with free family activities and entertainment for all ages to enjoy. Favourite activities included face painting, a silent disco, 360 Photo Booth, crazy bikes, Christmas craft, a sparkle station and photos with Santa.

Material Institute’s line up of local talent performing throughout the event was also a highlight. Local acts included Shelby Targett and Raspberry Terrapin, the Young Voices Hobart Choir, and the Tasmanian Chinese Buddhist Community who demonstrated four traditional performances including the lion dance.

Six local families won lucky door hamper prizes. These hampers were filled with very generously donated prizes from local businesses and services, the major prize being a $310 cruise voucher from Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.

The Rotary club of Brighton, kutalayna Collective and Material Institute served up a free barbeque and fresh fruit cups. Bean to Brew Café and food vans offered coffee, ice-cream, pizza and loaded fries.

“The success of the Brighton Christmas Block Party is the result of a huge collaborative effort,” said Elise Parker, Community Wellbeing Officer at Centacare Evolve. “We have an amazing community and are proud to have been able to bring so many people and services together to celebrate Christmas.”

A further 30 people volunteered to bring the event to life. “Not only did they help with the setup and enact our wet weather plan at the last minute, they ensured the event ran smoothly,” said Elise.

Centacare Evolve Housing’s Inspiring Future Leaders Program was heavily involved in the Brighton Christmas Block Party this year, with alumni and participants having the opportunity to apply their skills at this large community event.

The Brighton Christmas Block Party is Centacare Evolve Housing’s biggest event on the calendar each year. It is held on the last weekend in November to welcome everyone into the festive season. Its aim is to bring the community together to celebrate Christmas and create connections and family fun.