Christmas Pageant kicks off festive season

THE 2015 Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant was another resounding success attracting more than 40,000 people to the Hobart CBD last month.

Fifty five entrants took part in the parade that saw a range of colourful community floats, dance groups and marching bands move from Argyle to Collins Streets.

Hobart Lord Mayor Sue Hickey said the pageant was a wonderful annual tradition that entertained all ages with messages of peace and goodwill.

“The inclusion of popular children’s entertainers Hi-5 was a major attraction this year, second only to much loved Santa Claus,” she said.

“The development of the Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant has been fostered through the dedication of Council officers, together with our Gold Naming rights sponsor Myer, media partners, local businesses and community groups.

“The Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant is the must-see event for families that signals the start of the festive season, which is important for our community and city traders preparing for Christmas.”

Hobart City Council Community, Culture and Events Committee chairperson Dr Peter Sexton said the Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant was remarkable for the huge numbers of people drawn to the city and the commitment of people who took part and spent, in some cases, hundreds of hours in preparation of special floats.

Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant award winners:

Best Entry of the Pageant: Performance Academy

Best Community Group: Glenview Community Services

Best Business Group: The Faerie Shop

Best Band: Australian Army Band Tasmania

Best Dance Group: Hobart Dance Academy

Best Costumed Group: Bravehearts Inc.

Best Children’s Group: Musical Theatre Crew

Best School Group: New Norfolk Primary School

Lord Mayor’s Award: Holy Tantra Esoteric Buddhism

Best New Entry: Tasmanian Ethiopian Association