For 30 years, Denis Walter OAM has helped Geelong celebrate the magic of Christmas, bringing generations of families together through the much-loved Denis Walter Carols by the Bay. 

Next month, the beloved local entertainer and 3AW radio announcer will mark the milestone by returning to the waterfront alongside another Christmas icon, the Floating Christmas Tree, on Saturday 21 November.

The popular Flick the Switch competition also returns, giving one lucky child the chance to join Denis on stage and light up the tree for its 13th season.

Denis Walter Carols by the Bay has become a treasured Geelong tradition since 1997, with Denis’s enduring commitment to his hometown helping make it a highlight of the festive calendar.

This year’s special milestone evening will feature performances from three generations of the Walter family, alongside OzBoyz, Angie Hilton, Bethany Fisher, Richard Swanson, musical director Michael Cristiano and a special visit from Santa.

With a talented line-up of local and Australian performers, families are invited to settle on the lawn, watch the sun set over the city and enjoy a free evening of Christmas entertainment.

The free event will be held at Steampacket Gardens on Saturday 21 November, with festivities commencing at 6.30pm and Denis Walter Carols by the Bay running from 7pm to 9pm.

The celebrations will culminate in a countdown to illuminate the Floating Christmas Tree, followed by a fireworks display at approximately 9.15pm.

  To enter the Flick the Switch competition, visit our Christmas page.

Denis Walter Carols by the Bay and the Floating Christmas Tree lighting will launch the Christmas in Geelong program, bringing festive experiences, entertainment and cheer to the region through to 7 January 2027.

Denis Walter OAM

When I first had the idea for Carols by the Bay, I wanted to create something special for my community at our beautiful waterfront. We’ve made so many wonderful memories together over 30 years.

Through sunshine, rain, different venues and countless Christmases, the one constant has been the fantastic support of the Geelong community. To see families return year after year, with children growing up and bringing their own families, is incredibly special.

I’m so grateful to everyone who has helped make Carols by the Bay what it is today, and I can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with Geelong and kick off another magical Christmas.

Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

Thirty years of Denis Walter Carols by the Bay is an extraordinary achievement, and we owe Denis a huge thank you for the passion and dedication he has shown in bringing this special event to his community year after year.

Christmas is about connection, generosity, kindness and making time for the people around us. Events like this give families, friends and neighbours the chance to come together and share in the joy of the season.

We’re proud to help bring these two iconic Christmas traditions together and invite everyone to join us on the waterfront as we celebrate 30 years of carols and light up the bay.