The City worked closely with Variety WA in an effort to help it raise the required funding through approaching a number of potential sponsors, however the funding shortfall could not be secured.
Chair Commissioner Eric Lumsden said the City confirmed its $60,000 sponsorship of the 2018 event in June this year, committing to the same level of funding as the previous two years.
“Carols by Candlelight has been a tradition on the Christmas calendar and it’s disappointing previous major sponsors and event partners were unable to support the event this year.
“In spite of the City’s best efforts it is not in a position to meet the $290,000 gap in funding, required for Variety WA to host the event.
“The City is currently exploring options to present a smaller carols event as part of its overall Christmas campaign, however this has not yet been determined.”
As part of The City at Christmas, the City will host a full calendar of events and activations throughout November and December, including the return of the Christmas Lights Trail.
Major crowd pleasing events such as RAC Christmas Pageant, Symphony in the City and Christmas Nativity will also return this year, keeping nostalgic Christmas traditions alive.
Issued by Michael Holland, Senior Media Advisor, 9461 3425, michael.holland@cityofperth.wa.gov.au