The event, in its 39th year, is coordinated by Mitchell Conservatorium as a way to bring the city together for a musical extravaganza. 

Mitchell Conservatorium executive director Graham Sattler said the night will feature everyone’s favourite traditional carols and Christmas songs, all performed by local musicians.

“This year the Conservatorium has taken a bit of a different approach in that we auditioned for community members who wanted to be involved,” Mr Sattler said.

“That was a very exciting process and very successful.” 

Among the musicians performing at the event is Smith and Jones, George Sargent, Allegri Singers, the Bathurst City and RSL Concert Band, which will support all the soloists, and Peter Denmead, a member of the band.

“He will be both playing in the band and, for the first time, stepping out for a solo, singing O Holy Night,” Mr Sattler said.

The program also includes 10 community carols for the audience to sing along to.

The evening will be led by emcee Lauren Plenderleith.

“She starred not so long ago in [Carillon Theatrical Society’s] Rock of Ages and, I think for the first time, the emcee and I will be singing a duet,” Mr Sattler said.

Carols by Candlelight will start in Machattie Park at 6.30pm on Sunday with musical entertainment, before the mayor formally welcomes the crowd at 7pm.

People will be able to purchase glow sticks to boost the festive atmosphere of the night. 

Mr Sattler said the carols have something for every member of the family, children in particular.

“We have it on very, very good authority that the big man himself, Mr Claus, will make an appearance,” he said.

“We’ve been told he does favour the Bathurst carols.”

Mr Sattler said Carols by Candlelight is a major family event on the community calendar and one not to be missed.

“It is so accessible, it is such a beautiful park at this time of year and it is family entertainment from go to whoa,” he said.