Carols FAQs

Where and when is the event?

Carols in the Park is being held at Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve (Higgins Road, Bentleigh) on Saturday 13 December 2025.

The event will run from 4.00pm – 8:00 p.m.

The entrance is located on Higgins Road or via Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve 

Do I need to book for this event?

This event is free to attend. Bookings are not required.

What should I bring?

We all know Melbourne weather can be unpredictable! This is an outdoor, evening event so please keep an eye on the forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions.

The event will be held within Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, seating is not provided. We strongly recommend guests bring their own picnic blankets to sit on as the ground may be wet.

Guests who BYO chairs will be allocated towards the back of the event space, so that all children and guests sitting on the ground can see the carols without obstruction of chairs.

Is the event accessible?

Increased parking spaces for those with an Australian Disability Parking Permit will be available alongside the perimeter of Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve (within the traffic-controlled areas). 

The event space is within Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, with large, grassed areas and concrete paths circulating the space.

Accessible toilets are available at the venue.

Auslan interpreters will be on stage.

We are more than happy to assist if you have access requirements in order to participate in the event. To discuss your access requirements with a Glen Eira staff member, please contact the Arts & Culture team via phone 03 9524 3333 or email arts@gleneira.vic.gov.au

Are there any road closures or traffic changes to know about?

In order to ensure safety for all pedestrians, speed limits will be reduced on Higgins Road whilst the event is in progress.

We ask that you take care when driving near the event site due to increased patrons walking to the event.

Is there parking available nearby?

There is limited parking available in the streets surrounding Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve. We strongly recommend walking, cycling, or catching public transport wherever possible.

The closest station to the venue is Bentleigh Station (approx. 11-minute walk).

Will there be food and drinks available for purchase?

Yes, there will be a range of different food and drink options available to purchase from food trucks and vendors on the evening.

Guests are also welcome to bring along a picnic (no glass please).

Can I bring my dog/pet?

Dogs and pets are permitted within the grounds of Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, please ensure they stay on a leash.

Can I bring a pram?

Yes, prams are welcome but will be asked to be folded down if sitting within the central lawn area.

Can I smoke at the event?

No, all Glen Eira City Council events are smoke and vape-free.

Will the event be called off if it’s raining?

This is an outdoor event and in the case of heavy rain or dangerous weather, the event may need to be cancelled in the lead up to, or on the day of the event. Follow us on the Glen Eira Council’s Art and Culture Instagram and Facebook pages for up-to-date information.

What happens if my child gets lost?

Please alert a Glen Eira City Council (uniformed) staff member or security guard if your child is lost. The Glen Eira City Council Information marquee is the meeting point for lost children. 

All Glen Eira City Council's staff members and security guards are trained in lost child procedures.

Is there medical help available if needed?

St Johns staff will be on-site at Carols in the Park.

What happens if I hurt myself?

First Aid staff are on site at all events.

How do I contact Council's events team?

Our events team can be contacted on 9524 3333 or arts@gleneira.vic.gov.au