The St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight is set to celebrate a significant milestone this year as it marks its 80th anniversary. This year’s date has been locked in to December 14th, at Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama, and organisers are preparing for a grand celebration that promises to draw festive crowds and top-tier musical talents. Fans can look forward to the sensational Dami Im, who has been confirmed as the first artist in the line-up for the 2024 event.
Dami Im, known for her captivating vocals and a strong fan base dubbed “The Damiel Army,” shared, “I’m so excited to be returning to Adelaide for Carols and this year will be even more special as it’s the 80th anniversary. I absolutely love the Christmas season and more so now I’m a mum to two-year-old Harrison,” she stated.
In addition to Dami Im’s much-anticipated performance, the event will welcome back popular 7NEWS Adelaide personalities Rosanna Mangiarelli, Will Goodings, and Amelia Mulcahy as hosts. The 2024 edition is particularly special for Rosanna Mangiarelli, as it marks her 20th year on the Carols stage.
Families attending the event can expect a full day of free entertainment starting with the City of Adelaide Pre-Show Concert from 5pm. The gates will open earlier at 3pm to allow attendees ample time to find the perfect spot with their picnic rugs and settle in before the concert begins at 8.15pm. The evening is set to conclude with a dazzling fireworks display, adding a visual spectacle to the festive sounds.
Since taking over the custodianship of the Carols in 2022, St John Ambulance SA has infused the event with a renewed focus on community wellbeing—a cornerstone of their organisational mission. “The organisation is looking forward to bringing the South Australian community together again to celebrate the joy of Christmas. We’re thrilled to be part of this cherished South Australian tradition, especially in this milestone 80th year for Caróls,” said St John Ambulance SA CEO Mark Groote.
The acting Premier, the Hon Susan Close MP, also acknowledged the significance of the event, stating, “This iconic event has been enchanting families for 80 years and I’m so pleased it is going so strong in 2024. This great community event is a credit to St John Ambulance SA and everyone involved in delivering it and I’m sure many South Australians will be looking forward to attending this milestone year.”
The Carols by Candlelight began in 1944 with an estimated attendance of 50,000 people, almost 10 percent of South Australia’s population at that time. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, becoming a nationally televised event on Channel 7, featuring high-profile artists while retaining the charm and communal spirit of the original gatherings.
The St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight will also be broadcast nationally on Channel 7, on 7Two and 7Plus on Sunday 15 December 2024.
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