Lighting of the tree set to dazzle eventgoers

Published on 23 November 2023

The countdown is on to one of the Launceston community's most beloved traditions — the lighting of the iconic Christmas tree in the Brisbane St Mall.

Northern Tasmanian families are expected to turn out in droves tomorrow for the ever-popular annual event, with fantastic free entertainment, kid's activities and late night shopping in the Mall from 6pm to

9pm.

The main event - the lighting of the stunning 11m tree - will take place at 8.30pm, and Mayor Matthew Garwood said eventgoers of all ages would be dazzled by the all-new lighting effects.

"We've installed new foliage on the tree and an entirely new lighting system, which can display patterns using more than 7000 individual lights and nearly 2000 baubles," Mayor Garwood said.

"The installation of the tree was completed early this week and the lights were tested for the first time on Tuesday night - I can tell you the effects are absolutely magical and I'm confident our tree will be one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Australia this festive season."

The Lighting of the Tree is a Christmas in the City event coordinated by the City of Launceston and Launceston Central.

Launceston Central Executive Officer Amanda McEvoy said the event was a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate the CBD at its festive best.

"We can't wait to see everyone's reaction when the lights are officially turned on tomorrow night," Ms McEvoy said. 

"As well as the amazing tree lighting, we'll also get to see the full impact of 250m of new festoon lights, twinkle balls and baubles hung from nearly 1km of catenary wire throughout the Mall."