The 2018 Horsham Carols by Candlelight brought the Horsham soundshell to life as families and friends settled in for a night on the lawn to ring in the festive season.

Children activities and food were available from the late afternoon, while pre-show entertainment was provided by Horsham Brass Band, Wimmera Filipino Choir and Voices of the Wimmera Choir.

The main program kicked off at 7.30pm with MCs Simon Risson and Jessica Wilson welcoming the crowd.

Simon Dandy started the evening, performing O Come All Ye Faithful with the choir and band. Grace O’Donnell-Clancy then joined the choir to perform Hark the Herald Angels Sing and Angels We Have Heard on High.

The highlight of the night for many was the return of popular childrens entertainment group, the Mik Maks.

The group played a range of their biggest hits, along with some Christmas favourites - including Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. Santa even dropped by to join in the festivities.

Other guest performers included Horsham Primary School’s Choir, Horsham School of Music, Tim O’Donnell, Venetia Elbourne-Hobbs, Jessica Durrant, Rob Arnts and Belinda Elliott. 

The evening concluded with a dazzling fireworks display.

All donations collected from tin shaking and candle sales will go towards Aussie Helpers to help farmers affected by drought.