A Red Centre Christmas

The Alice Springs Christmas Show is rockin' the Red Centre for another year with plenty of free family fun to fill the stockings.

^{By Jenna Hoare}

PRESIDENT OF THE Central Australian Show Society Andrew Barrett says the show, which saw more than 4,500 people attend from throughout the region last year, is decking out Blatherskite Park to offer a packed day of entertainment.

"We've got Christmas bouncy castles, mechanical surfboards, plaster painting … there’s just so much free entertainment," he says.

"Alice is so unique in that we have people travelling hundreds of kilometres to come in, and [the event] is all about bringing the community together."

For those looking to recreate their favourite Christmas recipes or to get creative with upcycled craft, there's the annual Rumble Hall Competition to take part in.

"A lot of the surrounding stations get involved with kids from the Alice Springs School of the Air entering the competition. Categories include cooking, craft and art.”

The only requirement for participants of all ages is to have a festive twist.

"Kids love it. We've had feedback that it's a proud moment to go home and show their family they've won, and to place a ribbon on the fridge," Barrett says.

An exciting event to watch out for this year is the Christmas inflatables race.

"We're really looking forward to it. There will be an inflatable Christmas tree, reindeer, and Santa provided for people to wear and compete. It's bound to be a lot of fun."

And in the spirit of supporting the community, proceeds from this year’s Christmas raffle will go to the Alice Springs Hospital Drovers Volunteer Service.

The show is an accessible and inclusive family community event. Be there with bells on!

Alice Springs Christmas Show
WHEN SAT 23 NOV | 4-8PM 
AT ALICE SPRINGS SHOW GROUNDS 
COST $5 | FREE U15 
INFO alicespringsshow.com.au

^{Header, thumbnail & inset: Arla, Amelia, Santa & Quinn Mashford. Nikki Westover Photography}