Running on Thursday, December 14 from 3pm, the Christmas event will again see the town of Bega transform into a “haven for fun and community”.

“Littleton Garden and Ayres Walkway will be alive with markets and entertainment, businesses across town will be decorated and open late, kids will be singing carols and rumour has it there is even going to be an appearance from Santa himself,” organiser Cayce Hill said.

Former Bega Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Mal Barnes said the event brings the community together and helps local business during the Christmas build up.

“It’s good for both the community and small businesses,” he said.

“The community needs some activity to get involved with at this time of year. Businesses can open up and join the party, it’s great for the town. I know the Cobargo one was successful last week, so hopefully we will have similar results in Bega.”

Local cafe owner Phil Indovino said last year’s inaugural event was the busiest trading day he had seen his two years of operation.

Mr Barnes said with many shoppers looking online for a bargain, these events are more important than ever for local businesses. 

“Anything to generate people coming into town we need to embrace and build upon,” he said.

“People are drifting to the internet these days. They are often too busy in there lives now, which doesn’t give them time to shop locally. Events like this bring the community together, and also has a flow on effect to create jobs.”

There will be live music at the Bega Valley Regional Gallery and businesses across town.

Gallery director Iain Dawson said the space will be open late, and offer the opportunity for the community to see the gallery’s new exhibition of video and sculptural work by artist Justene Williams.

“We are encouraging younger people who don’t usually go to the gallery to go along,” he said.