THIS year’s festive season in Fremantle kicks off November 28.

Phoebe Freeman vividly recalls the celebrations of her youth which took place, as today, in Kings Square: “The Salvos band came along and played, and groups would be singing… the whole square was decorated with balloons and streamers.” Many such sights have remained a constant as Fremantle city council prepares for its celebrations.

The highlight of its Christmas Spirit event, starting 6.30pm Friday November 28, is illuminating the giant Moreton Bay fig tree in Kings Square. For the first time, visitors will be encouraged to donate to the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation. Festivities will also feature market stalls, live entertainment, and carollers.

The council also plans to brighten up city streets and public spaces.

Freeman recalls how the Christmas revelry of her adolescence was, “very crowded; everyone brought along their families and we ran into cousins and friends”.

by NICK WYCHE