Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
HUNDREDS of children, parents and friends gathered at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre on Friday for the much-loved Carols by Candlelight event, celebrating through music, joy and the spirit of giving as the city officially stepped into the festive season.
The annual event, hosted and curated by the City of Bulawayo in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Bulawayo, once again brought communities together in a warm display of tradition and generosity.
Children from various local schools combined to lead the singing of joyous festive songs that quickly ignited the Christmas spirit. This year’s choir was complemented by the Salvation Army Brass Band, whose performance added originality and impressive musical flair.
Notable councillors in attendance included Thandiwe Moyo, Suzan Sithole and Deputy Mayor Councillor Edwin Ndlovu, who represented Bulawayo Mayor, Councillor David Coltart.
Delivering the keynote address, Councillor Ndlovu highlighted that Carols by Candlelight has been part of the city’s cultural fabric for nearly 70 years. He praised the partnership with the Rotary Club, noting its continued impact in mobilising donations for the less privileged so they too can enjoy a cheerful Christmas period.
“This event signals the start of the festive season. The City also uses Carols by Candlelight to reflect on the year coming to an end and to plan for the years ahead. All the donations received here will go a long way in supporting underprivileged children so they experience a comfortable Christmas season,” said Councillor Ndlovu.
He went on to encourage residents to enjoy the festive season responsibly.
Rotary Club representative Melisa Matshazi, described the 2025 edition as a success, with hundreds participating.
“Carols by Candlelight is all about spreading the joy of the season and giving back to those in need. This year, we attracted about 500 participants, who joined us in celebrating the beginning of the festive season.
“Each year, the Rotary identifies and supports children’s homes that house the most vulnerable, prioritising those with limited sponsorship. All the money and donations we collected today go a long way in supporting causes that touch lives across Bulawayo, and we’ll soon identify the children’s homes that will benefit from this initiative,” she said.
Before being adopted by the Rotary Club, the Carols by Candlelight programme was first staged in Bulawayo by John Barham and Miss Una Etheridge, supported by a small band. The event itself originated in Australia in the 1930s, created by renowned radio personality and broadcaster, Norman Banks.
