One of Newcastle's most iconic traditions - carols in King Edward Park - brought some joy and cheer to the city on Saturday night.
It was a new-look event this year, named Christmas Under the Stars, combining live music and a family movie.
Newcastle Permanent staged the free event, with help from the City of Newcastle and Newcastle Herald.
Jackson and Matty from 105.3 NEW FM hosted and Santa made an appearance.
Meanwhile, Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser will on Monday move to donate $4500 to drought-affected families in the Upper Hunter.
The council money was intended for fireworks for the carols at Speers Point Park on Sunday. The event went ahead, but the pyrotechnics were cancelled because of the drought and bush-fire crisis.
Ms Fraser said the money would be given to Our Shout this Christmas, which aims to raise $500,000 to enable 500 drought-affected households to each receive a $1000 to spend over the festive period. "It would be a meaningful way for council to provide support to Upper Hunter communities," she said.
