Carols FAQs

Where and when is the event?

Carols in the Park is being held at Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve (Higgins Road, Bentleigh) on Saturday 14 December 2024. Gates open from 4:00pm with the main event running from 4.30 to 8pm.

The entrance is located on Higgins Street or via Bentleigh Reserve.

Do I need to book for this event?

This event is free to attend. Bookings are not required.

What should I bring?

We all know Melbourne weather can be unpredictable! This is an outdoor, evening event so please keep an eye on the forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions.

The event will be held within Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, seating is not provided. We strongly recommend guests bring their own picnic blankets to sit on as the ground may be wet.

Guests who BYO chairs will be allocated towards the back of the event space, so that all children and guests sitting on the ground can see the carols without obstruction of chairs.

Is the event accessible?

Increased parking spaces for those with an Australian Disability Parking Permit will be available alongside the perimeter of Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve (within the traffic-controlled areas). 

The event space is within Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, with large, grassed areas and concrete paths circulating the space.

Accessible toilets are available at the venue.

Auslan interpreters will be on stage and on the big screens, as well as song lyrics at the bottom of each screen.

We are more than happy to assist if you have access requirements in order to participate in the event. To discuss your access requirements with a Glen Eira staff member, please contact the Arts & Culture team via phone 03 9524 3333 or email arts@gleneira.vic.gov.au

Are there any road closures or traffic changes to know about?

In order to ensure safety for all pedestrians, speed limits will be reduced on Higgin Street whilst the event is in progress. Parking will also be reduced on Bolinda Steet to allow for increased traffic and accessible parking.

We ask that you take care when driving near the event site due to increased patrons walking to the event.

Is there parking available nearby?

There is limited parking available in the streets surrounding Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve. We strongly recommend walking, cycling, or catching public transport wherever possible.

The closest train to the venue stops at Bentleigh Station (approx. 10-minute walk).

The 703 bus stops in Centre Rd and the 701 stops in Jasper Rd – both very close to Bentleigh/Hodgson Reserve.

Will there be food and drinks available for purchase?

Yes, there will be a range of different food and drink options available to purchase from food trucks and vendors on the evening.

Guests are also welcome to bring along a picnic (no glass please).

Can I bring my dog/pet?

Although we don’t recommend bringing your dog to Carols, service animals are very welcome. Dogs are usually permitted within the grounds of Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve and must be kept on a leash during the event for the comfort and safety of other guests. Please be aware that the event will be very busy with food trucks and amplified live music.

Can I bring a pram?

Yes, prams are welcome but will be asked to be folded down if sitting within the central lawn area.

Can I smoke at the event?

No, all Glen Eira City Council events are smoke-free.

Will the event be called off if it’s raining?

This is an outdoor event and in the case of heavy rain or dangerous weather, the event may need to be cancelled in the lead up to, or on the day of the event. Follow us on the Glen Eira Council’s Art and Culture Instagram and Facebook pages for up-to-date information.

What happens if my child gets lost?

Please alert a Glen Eira City Council (uniformed) staff member or security guard if your child is lost. The Glen Eira City Council Information marquee is the meeting point for lost children. 

All Glen Eira City Council's staff members and security guards are trained in lost child procedures.

Is there medical help available if needed?

ColMed staff will be on-site at Carols in the Park.

Will there be a songbook available on the night?

There won’t be a printed version of the songbook available, however all lyrics will be displayed on the large screens.

Staying COVID-safe

We ask that you do not attend Carols in the Park if you feel unwell or are showing any COVID-like symptoms (fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, or shortness of breath).

While at the event, remember to wash and/or sanitise your hands regularly.

What happens if I hurt myself?

First Aid staff are on site at all events.

How do I contact Council's events team?

Our events team can be contacted on 9524 3333 or arts@gleneira.vic.gov.au