There’s so many things to do, markets to shop from and light shows to see this time of the year that the true meaning of Christmas can sometimes get lost in the process. The annual Wayside Chapel Christmas Day Street Party is a good reminder of what the festival stands for — generosity, acts of kindness and community. The annual festival returns this December with a free seated Christmas lunch for those doing it tough and tons of festive trimmings lined up.
Wayside Chapel Christmas Day Street Party
For one day only on Sunday, December 25, Hughes Street Kings Cross will be packed to the rafters with celebrations including live music, pop-up events, long tables and a special visit from Santa for the kids
With a mission to aid those experiencing homelessness and social isolation, Wayside is reaching out to Australians to pitch in and help those less fortunate.
“There are 37,715 people experiencing homelessness in NSW, and alleviating loneliness and disadvantage is more important at this time of year than ever,” Pastor and CEO of Wayside Chapel, Rev. Jon Owen said in a statement.
The program includes a morning service and breakfast followed by a free Christmas Lunch for the community. The street party will follow soon after with live music, face painting, a fake tattoo parlour and Santa himself taking over the premises.
On the menu are up to 20 hams, 80 kilograms of prawns, and 800 puddings. Hundreds of people have participated in the annual event over the years especially those with nowhere to go on Christmas.
If you’re unable to attend but would like to help out, you can head to Donate A Plate and make someone’s Christmas Day a little brighter.