Avalanche City and Nomad are taking centre stage at the new venue for this year's Cox Partners Christmas at the Park.
For the first time in the event's 16-year history the festive celebration is being held at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds in Hastings on Saturday, December, 17.
Event organiser David Trim said the event would alternate between Hastings and Napier every year, so it provided an opportunity to celebrate Christmas as a unified region.
Another new addition to this year's event is Mahons Amusements who are bringing a range of entertainment and rides to create a carnival atmosphere.
Gates open at 2pm and live music begins at 5pm.
Fireworks kick off about 9.30pm and Mahons Amusements rides end about 11pm.
Mr Trim recommended families also visit the Fiesta of Lights, which opens at dusk at the Showgrounds.
Mr Trim said sponsors, donors and volunteers from Cox Partners Estate Agents, Hawke's Bay Showgrounds, Hastings District Council, Napier City Council, Hawke's Bay Regional Council, The Hits 89.5 FM and Laserforce ensured the event stayed free to the public.
Hawke's Bay Regional Council are sponsoring buses from Napier, Havelock North and Flaxmere to the event for a $2 return with preschoolers free.
Elwood Rd will be closed from Otene Rd to Karamu Rd and car parking will be available from the showground entrance off Karamu Rd and Kenilworth Rd.
Additional parking is available on the northern end of Elwood Road with shuttles taking people to the site.
Donations will be collected for the Kaikoura earthquake relief efforts, and security will help ensure the event is glass-free, alcohol-free and drug-free.
For more information visit Eventfinder.