Mark your diaries for Saturday 13 December 2025, when Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama will come alive with festive cheer, community spirit and a stellar musical line-up — all part of one of Adelaide’s most enduring and heartwarming traditions.
“Country music is one of the world’s most popular genres and we’re proud to showcase country music artists at Carols,” says St John Ambulance SA CEO Maree Geraghty.
Leading the charge is James Johnston, who’s taken the country scene by storm. With over 134 million streams to his name and a dynamic, modern sound, James is set to bring high energy and contemporary flair to the Carols stage.
“I’m so excited to bring a little country to Christmas at this year’s St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight. Who says you can’t have a fiddle and sleigh bells in the same song! This is going to be a special night!” Johnston says.
Joining him is the always-popular Amber Lawrence, a Carols favourite and one of Australia’s most decorated country artists. With a career spanning more than 20 years and multiple Golden Guitar Awards under her belt, Amber’s heartfelt lyrics and vibrant performances continue to strike a chord with audiences of all ages.
“I can’t wait to perform at Carols by Candlelight. It’s a magical night that brings people together, and I’m so thrilled to be sharing the stage with James and so many other incredible artists,” Lawrence says.
“It’s going to be a beautiful way to kick off the festive season.”
This year’s event will once again be hosted by 7NEWS Adelaide’s Rosanna Mangiarelli, Will Goodings and Amelia Mulcahy, and broadcast nationally — showcasing the joy of South Australia’s Christmas celebrations with the rest of the country.
Families, friends, and festive fans are encouraged to dust off their favourite Christmas gear and head to Elder Park early. Gates open at 3pm, with the City of Adelaide Pre-Show Concert from 5pm and the main event lighting up the night from 8:30pm, capped off with a spectacular fireworks finale.
With more performers and surprises still to be revealed, the 81st St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight promises another unforgettable evening of song, celebration and Christmas spirit.
More on St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight at adelaidecarols.com.au/event
