Geelong's much-loved Floating Christmas Tree has returned as the shining centrepiece of the festive season.
For the 12th year, the 25-metre-tall structure was towed across Corio Bay this morning to take pride of place at Steampacket Quay.
Boasting new light features and music programs, the Floating Christmas Tree will make its official 2025 launch alongside Carols by the Bay this Saturday 22 November.
The sparkling sensation is a true local triumph.
After being stored in pieces for most of the year, the tree was carefully reassembled piece by piece at Mackey Street Marina throughout October.
When the weather and tides were right, it was transported atop its heli-pad home to the waterfront.
Among the local contractors working on the project are Hanlon Industries, Total Events, Elstone Diving Services and Barracom.
Final testing and finishing touches will take place over the coming days ready for Christmas in Geelong opening night on Saturday.
Carols by the Bay, hosted by Denis Walter, will begin at 7.30pm in Steampacket Gardens, pausing at 9pm for the lucky 'Flick the Switch' winner to light up the Floating Christmas Tree.
Then the full spectacle will be on display with 17,000 coloured pixels, 200 lights, 30 digital windows, 300 metres of LED neon rings, and two new music programs, supported by 3.5 kilometres of cabling.
Last year according to foot traffic data, an average 20,000 people visited the Floating Christmas Tree per day, and many stayed to explore the nearby precinct and surrounds. An impressive 56 per cent of survey respondents rated the Floating Christmas Tree experience as 'excellent' and a further 30 per cent rated the experience as 'good'.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
The tree lights up more than just the bay, it lights up our city. It's an open invitation to explore Geelong. People come to see the lights, then stay to enjoy our restaurants, shops and waterfront. It's a wonderful entry point to everything the region has to offer.
Councillor Eddy Kontelj, Chair of the Arts & Culture, Hospitality & Live Entertainment portfolio
The much-loved Floating Christmas Tree brings so much joy and excitement to our community and I'm certain there is much anticipation for its arrival. The tree is a showcase of local skill, creativity and festive spirit. That theme is continued throughout our program for people of all ages to celebrate the season.
The interactive tree will play six-minute shows every 15 minutes from 8.30pm-midnight each night until Wednesday 7 January.
To personalise the production from your phone, such as changing the colours, visit geelongchristmastree.com.au
Traffic controls will be in place around the waterfront this Saturday for Carols by the Bay and the lighting of the tree.
For more details about opening night, and the full Christmas in Geelong program, visit our Christmas hub .
