This year St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight celebrates 80 years and a huge event is set for Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama on Saturday 14 December. While this year’s line up is being kept closely guarded, we are thrilled to announce our first artist is the incredible Dami Im. Beginning her musical journey as a virtuoso pianist, Dami is renowned for her emotive and powerful vocals, not to mention her legion of fans and “The Dami Army”.
“I’m so excited to be returning to Adelaide for Carols and this year will be even more special as it’s the 80th anniversary. I absolutely love the Christmas season and more so now I’m a mum to two year old Harrison.”
7NEWS Adelaide personalities Rosanna Mangiarelli, Will Goodings and Amelia Mulcahy return as hosts, with 2024 marking Rosanna’s 20th year on the Carols stage.
Families are encouraged to don their best Christmas outfit, bring along a picnic rug and come down to Elder Park early to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a free day of entertainment, including the City of Adelaide Pre-Show Concert from 5.00pm. Gates open at 3.00pm and the concert commences at 8.15pm, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show.
As the proud custodians of Carols since 2022, St John Ambulance SA CEO Mark Groote says; “the organisation is looking forward to bringing the South Australian community together again to celebrate the joy of Christmas. We’re thrilled to be part of this cherished South Australian tradition, especially in this milestone 80th year for Carols. Community wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do at St John Ambulance SA, and Carols is an extension of the work we do each and every day.”
“We are extremely grateful to the Government of South Australia and the City of Adelaide for their ongoing support of Carols. This event not only spreads festive cheer, but also helps us continue our mission to save lives and enhance community wellbeing and resilience”; Mark added.
Acting Premier the Hon Susan Close MP commented; “This iconic event has been enchanting families for 80 years and I’m so pleased it is going so strong in 2024. This great community event is a credit to St John Ambulance SA and everyone involved in delivering it and I’m sure many South Australians will be looking forward to attending this milestone year.”
Carols is one of the most highly anticipated events on South Australia’s festive calendar and was first held in 1944 where an estimated crowd of 50,000 attended, almost 10 percent of South Australia’s population at the time. Carols has grown to become a national television broadcast on Channel 7, boasting high profile artists, while still keeping the essence of the event that brings together family and friends to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and sing along to their favourite Christmas Carols and songs.
St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight will again be broadcast nationally on Channel 7, via 7Two and 7Plus on Sunday 15 December 2024.
