Lismore’s Carols in the Heart is set to return bigger than ever on Saturday 6 December, with this year’s event moving to Crozier Field for a more interactive and family-friendly experience. The new location offers better acoustics, more space and the chance for audiences to get closer to the performers.

Mayor Steve Krieg says the team has gone all-out after last year’s cancellation.

“We’re right here at the home of entertainment in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. On the 6th of December, we’re going to have the biggest and best Carols in the Heart, headlined by none other than Rachael Beck,” he said. “Last year we had a massive hailstorm, but this year we’ve gone all out. It’s going to be exciting.”

Rachael Beck, speaking from Sydney during rehearsals for a new play, says she’s thrilled to come home for the event.

“It’s so wonderful to be invited to celebrate the Christmas season with my homeland. I don’t often get to do that,” she said. “This area breeds the most wonderful, eclectic, strong performers, so I’m excited to hear everyone play and sing as well.”

Rachael plans to perform Christmas favourites with a full band and dancers, and she says she’ll be bringing plenty of humour to the stage.

“People will be able to get up close and personal, so I might get a couple of audience members up to ask about their favourite Christmas recipes or funny Christmas Day stories.”

Lismore City Council Event Officer Gavin McKean says this year’s line-up brings together some of the region’s most-loved performers.

“We’ve got local Lismore person and renowned music artist Luke Vasella, who has played our carols for years,” he said.

“We’ve also got the Isabella A Capella Choir, Bunny Racket, and Hillbilly Shank, who will put a bit of a funny twist on the carols. And of course, Santa will be making a few surprise appearances during the afternoon and at the end of the night.”

The event will also feature food trucks, drinks, kids entertainment and a major laser light show to close the night.

Council has shifted the event from a Sunday to a Saturday for the first time to make a full day of Christmas activities in the CBD. Families can explore local shops, visit Santa’s Wonderland for photos, and then head to Crozier Field for the evening program.

“It really is a family-friendly event,” Mayor Krieg said. “Shop local, support local, get your Christmas shopping done, get your Santa photos, and then finish it off with the best carols - probably in Australia.”

He says the event is an important moment for the community.

“So many people are doing it tough at the moment. This is a free event where families can relax, take a breath and enjoy our beautiful region. It’s a chance to be together as a community.”

Carols in the Heart is just one of several events bringing Christmas cheer to Lismore this December:

• Shop, Spin & Win – Spend over $30 in an independent Lismore store during December 2025 for your chance to spin and win.
• Santa’s Wonderland – From 5 December at the Lismore Regional Gallery. Photo bookings essential.
• Pawtraits – Christmas photos with your pets at The Quad on 6, 13 and 20 December.
• Elf Hunt – Explore Lismore businesses throughout December to spot hidden elves and win prizes.

More information is available at xmasinlismore.com