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The history of Carols by Candlelight

Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight is the flagship event of Australia’s Christmas carol tradition. Originating in Melbourne in 1938, it is the oldest and most prominent Christmas entertainment event in Australia.

Carols by Candlelight was founded by radio broadcaster, Norman Banks MBE. On Christmas Eve on 1937, he passed a window and noticed an elderly woman singing to ‘Away in a Manger’ on the radio, her face lit only by a candle. Wondering how many others spent Christmas alone, Banks was inspired to create a large gathering of people to sing their favourite Christmas carols together, by candlelight.

By Christmas 1938, Carols by Candlelight was born. The first ever event was held in Alexandra Gardens and was an instant success, attracting a crowd of around 10,000 people!

In 1959, the newly constructed Sidney Myer Music Bowl provided a permanent venue for Carols by Candlelight, where the event is still held more than 65 years on. 

Side of stage looking up at the Carols crowd, and see some performers on stage

87 years of Christmas joy

The first Carols by Candlelight in 1938 was backed by a small choir, two soloists and the Metropolitan Fire Brigade.

From these humble beginnings, Carols by Candlelight has since grown into an institution of Christmas magic. It quickly attracted the nation’s top talent, adding performers such as Australia’s ‘Queen of Song’, Gladys Moncrieff and operatic soprano, Madame Florence Austral.

This star power has continued over the decades, with a dazzling cast of Australia’s top musical talent including John Farnham, David Campbell, Marina Prior, Delta Goodrem, Silvie Paladino, Mitch Tambo, Dami Im, Marcia Hines, Hi-5, The Wiggles, and many, many more. 

Two ladies, one dressed as an elf, have their hands up and smiling amongst a crowd

A magical evening with a life-long impact

The magic of each Carols by Candlelight creates wondrous memories that last a lifetime. But the event also makes a life-changing impact for kids who are blind or have low vision, by fundraising for Vision Australia’s children’s services.

Ticket sales and donations from Carols by Candlelight fund the education and development of children and teens who are blind or have low vision, helping them form strong foundations for a lifetime of independence and meaningful inclusion. It also ensures that families never feel alone, with support navigating life when their child has been diagnosed with a vision condition.

Discover the impact of Carols by Candlelight