Layla Schillert, the acclaimed star of the new circus theatre production, Cirque Alice, will shine like an angel atop the Christmas tree at Glenelg’s free community celebration, Christmas at the Bay.

The Newcastle-based singer, who was also a top 50 finalist on Australian Idol in 2023, will perform much-loved carols as part of the event’s stage show on Saturday 6 December.

Fringe favourite Charmaine Janitha (Jones) and her powerhouse ensemble, Gospo Collective, will headline the twilight carols and stage show on the lawns of Jimmy Melrose Park. High-energy Adelaide party band Malibu Drive will also appear as special guests.

The festive stage show is one highlight of a five-and-a-half-hour celebration, delivering festive cheer to locals and visitors alike. Glenelg will mark the season with an afternoon and evening of Christmas-themed activities – culminating in the stage show – across Moseley Square, the foreshore and Bay Discovery Centre, from 3pm to 8.30pm.

Throughout the evening, a range of local community groups will take to the stage, with 7News presenter Gertie Spurling hosting as emcee. Songbooks will be available in print and online for sing-alongs, and Auslan interpreters will be on stage to ensure the event is fully accessible.

Before the stage show begins, visitors can enjoy Christmas crafts, youth market stalls (creating a miniature Christmas village atmosphere), face painting, games, photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs Claus, and more.

Nearby, Jetty Road traders will add to the festive spirit with dazzling Christmas window displays. Visitors can vote for their favourites using QR codes on shop posters for the chance to win a family pass to Cirque Alice.

Jetty Road, Glenelg, is brimming with fantastic cafes, restaurants and takeaway places, all a short stroll from the festivities.

Traditionally, the City of Holdfast Bay hosts the Glenelg Christmas Pageant every year. However, due to the Transforming Jetty Road Glenelg construction works and associated road closures, a street parade will not be possible in 2025.

Christmas at the Bay will instead deliver five-and-a-half hours of festive celebration.

Free Santa photos
3pm – 5.40pm

Bring along your camera and snap a free photo with Santa and Mrs Claus inside the Glenelg Town Hall. Book your spot here.

Free kids’ activities
3pm – 6pm

These include face painting, Christmas crafts, nature-inspired loose parts play, Come & Try volleyball, various ball games, and giant lawn games.

Youth markets
3pm – 7pm

Grab some Christmas gifts from the youth-run market stalls.

Community Christmas carols
6pm – 8:30pm

Find a comfy spot on the lawns of Jimmy Melrose Park and enjoy an evening of free entertainment.
Fringe favourite Charmaine Janitha (Jones) and her ensemble, Gospo Collective, will headline with soulful harmonies and festive flair. Adelaide party band Malibu Drive will light up the stage, along with Layla Schillert, the acclaimed star of the new circus theatre production, Cirque Alice.
Local favourites will entertain in between, including Dancers by Donna, AEROkids, St Andrew’s Church Choir, and Glenelg Primary School Choir.