Kawerau Christmas in the Park got underway this afternoon and with a rich line up of talented performers from across the Bay of Plenty and New Zealand.

The annual Christmas event celebrates Christmas with a bang with organizers saying this year's line-up is the best so far, organisers say.

Christmas in the park in Kawerau.

The afternoon kickeds off from 1pm with the 1xx Community Christmas Concert featuring the best of local Bay performers before the headline show from 7pm.

The evening show showcases the best of New Zealand entertainment including New Zealand top reggae band 1814 accompanied by Russell Harrison, Sharon Emirali, Alisha Fai'Hulton, Haylee Nitschke and local musicians The Tait Kora Band and teen sensation Cameron Rota before a 'massive' fireworks display to cap off the night.

Kawerau District Council events coordinator Lee Barton says this evening is going to go off like a bang.

"Bring the family to Kawerau Christmas in the park for a festive fun night in Kawerau.

"The weather is absolutely stunning and the birds are humming and we are going to celebrate Christmas with a bang."

Organizers would like to remind everyone that the Kawerau Christmas in the Park is all about the family and is drug, gang memorabilia and alcohol free.