They all seem to come from Europe. But there is one Christmas tradition that Australia has given to the world. Carols by Candlelight.

The first one is believed to have been held in the South Australian mining town of Moonta, where miners gathered to sing carols on Christmas Eve with candles stuck on their hats.

Pretty well every Australian town now has a major carol event. For Tamworth, it will be December 17 at Bicentennial Park.

Munchies will be on sale from 6.30pm, with the Lions Club and Salvos serving barbecue, drinks and ice-creams while enjoying the music of Tamworth Brass Band and the Highland Pipe Band.

You can buy an electric candle for $4. Song sheets are free or go to http://carolsinthepark.info

Carols starts at 7.30pm and will finish around 9.15. Carols will be accompanied by the Conservatorium Concert Band and the inter-church choir and this year’s guest, Dallas Watts.

Christmas is about giving and the bucket brigade will be collecting money for Ronald McDonald House.

Organisers wish to thank the major sponsors, Northern Daily Leader, Calrossy Anglican School, Northern Inland Credit Union, Woodley’s Motors and Pulse Kitchens who have made it all possible.

You can bet there will be a lot of fun while not forgetting the focus; the day when God visited as a tiny baby.