Tauranga’s major community Christmas concert, A Night Before Christmas, has just launched its 2023 event with a spectacular lineup of music, dance, food and festivities.

Held on Saturday, December 16, the much-loved event will once again be at the beautiful Bethlehem College Fields, and hosted by Bethlehem Baptist Church.

A Night Before Christmas has been running since 1996, and is one of the Bay of Plenty’s largest community events, with more than 10,000 people attending annually.

Started on the banks of the Wairoa River with 150 people, the event has grown considerably over the years, becoming a tradition for many families to attend year-after-year.

The full performance line-up for this year will be announced soon, with the event continuing to support local artists including up-and-coming talent as well as acts who are making waves on the national stage.

A spot that is definitely on the bill is the hugely popular Christmas Carols segment, which will once again be provided by the Bethlehem Baptist Church band.

And by public demand, the night will also be capped off with a fantastic fireworks display.

A Night Before Christmas will continue its legacy of being a free community concert for thousands of families in the region.

The free tickets will be available on Thursday, November 16, at 9am, by visiting: www.anbc.co.nz

Event organisers say that due to the demand seen last year, the area of the event has been increased so people don’t miss out.

Attendees shouldn’t overstock their free tickets, and only book for those they know are coming.