Gather your family, friends and neighbours for the Northern Beaches' biggest Christmas musical celebration, the Manly Christmas Choral Concert on Thursday 8 December.

This free and exciting family event is returning to Manly Oval and will feature a host of Christmas favourites from 6.30 – 8.30pm with gates opening from 5pm.

Performed under the direction of Ms Margi Coen of the Sydney Vocal Arts Centre, choristers will be drawn from local primary and high schools, choral societies, drama and singing schools – along with more than 120 local residents.

Highlights will include 'Chestnuts roasting on an open fire' (performed by Alex Young); 'Little Drummer Boy' (performed by Ignite – accompanied by actual drummer boys), 'Mary Did You know?' (performed by Jack Vidgen), 'Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas' (Armondo Hurley), 'All I Want for Christmas' (Julia Manias) and a rousing performance of 'Feed the World' performed by Julia Manias, Natalie Theodore and Ignite.

Christmas Carols wouldn't be complete without a special appearance by Santa Claus and there will also be face painting for the kids, fun battery-operated candles courtesy of Cunninghams Property and a fireworks finale accompanied by the '1812 Overture' performed by Northern Beaches Orchestra.

Visitors to the event are encouraged to bring their picnic rug and picnic or enjoy the tasty treats from one of the six hand-picked food stalls, including The Lions Club of Balgowlah.

"This is a wonderful family friendly event and Northern Beaches Council is thrilled to be continuing the Manly Christmas Choral Concert tradition at Manly Oval for our community," said Northern Beaches Council Deputy General Manager, Planning and Community, David Kerr.