It's a time when families can pull away from the sadness of 2019 and throw a rug on the ground, squirt the Aerogard, wave to the neighbours and enjoy the old songs and traditions that evoke that Christmas nostalgia.

This year it's Saturday, December 7 at Bicentennial Park. The fun gets underway at 6.30pm with sausages and coffee on sale, candles, glow sticks, and slushies.

The song sheets are free, thanks to the Northern Daily Leader, so too are the three jumping castles, helium balloons and giant games. There's also a life-sized Bethlehem scene, where you can dress up as a shepherd or an angel and take a family photo.

At around 7.30pm the entrance of the pipe band heralds the start of the carols. There are old favourites and new renditions, entertainment and singalongs led by local groups and performers from a range of churches.

This year will feature a special kids spot led by Sydney artist Josh Goscombe, who has just released a new kids album. It aims to finish around 9.15pm with fireworks. It's been an incredibly tough year and this event is a chance to put it to one side for a while and shift our focus.

The birth of Jesus reminds us that there is hope for better things in the here and in the hereafter. For 2000 years, our civilisation has built on His words and given us the lifestyle we enjoy today.

Other carol events include Carols at Westdale December 6; Moonby House, December 6; Quirindi, Sunday, December 8 and Tamworth Hospital Monday, December 9.