Christmas Season in Australia

Hi all last night Lincoln and I went off to see the lighting of the trees and the festivities that the City of Sydney had planned.

As we walked thru the Domain we finally found out what all the tents had been set up for, it was the Citi Group Christmas Party. No one seems to have parties inside they are mostly all held in the many parks. One gentleman told us the theme was Central Park and that was why the squirrels were all set about.

Rides were being offered in the lovely carriage with well dressed driver, the horse drawing the carriage was a gorgeous horse and just pranced every so nicely.

We then continued on our way thru the hospital grounds and out onto Martin Place where we could hear music and much gaiety. As we walked over a couple of streets we could see the large screen and hear the performers, they were mainly entertaining the large group of children which were decked out in their Christmas Hats. The performers were on stage and a large group was watching and then the next group seated behind was watching the performance on the huge screen. Couldn't believe the number of little ones out.

We then crossed over Pitt Street, still on Martin Place to see the huge tree which was decorated and standing beside it was King Frosty, having his picture taken with the many shoppers who were out milling around.

We walked back up Pitt Street to the Pitt Street Mall, which is a closed off section of the roadway and admired the Christmas Trees in the Myer Department Store, not to be outdone, the second department store which is called David Jones and known as DJ had 6 scenes of the Nutcracker in their windows all with puppets and dancing little animals. Had to wait in line to take pictures.

Just before we came to David Jones, policemen on horses stopped traffic so that another horse drawn carriage could pass, which was carrying Santa and the Lord Mayor of Sydney who had just come from visiting the kiddies in Hyde Park and was now on its was to Martin Place.

We then crossed over Elizabeth Street, we are now heading back to our place, and entered Hyde Park, where again a large screen was projecting the goings on from Martin Place, not as many people here, but they did have little Angels who were giving Lindt Chocolates to the grown ups and brightly sparking stars to the little people. As we stood watching the choir came on screen and sang some of the old familiar Christmas Carols. It was a lovely evening and I am sure everyone had a great time. I know Lincoln and I did.

We continued on our way home and just as we came to the steps at the Art Centre fireworks started lighting up the sky, they were being sent up from Hyde Park and Martin Place, in mostly red and green colours. All this in the downtown park of the city, they certainly do not get all wrapped up about liability here.

Once we arrived home didn't more fireworks start lighting up the sky from the bridge down on Circular Quay, do not know what the occasion was for them, likely just another party.

Absolutely great City.