Geelong’s Gala Day tradition is set to see some major changes in 2008 to allow the entire community to be involved in the iconic event.

Celebrating it’s 92nd year, making it one of Australia’s oldest parades, the Gala Day Parade and Family Fun day is making the move to a Saturday, enabling people who may have otherwise missed out in taking part because of their work or school commitments during the week, to get along and enjoy a fun day out.

Above: The fun and colour of Gala Day is moving to a Saturday

To be held on Saturday 22nd November, this year’s Gala Day will also see the Family Fun Day return to the city’s spectacular waterfront at Steampacket Gardens. The colourful carnival will feature family entertainment with spectators treated to a spectacular stage programme with something for all ages. Market and food stalls, rides, show bags and roving performers will all form part of the new and exciting Family Fun Day providing free entertainment for the families of Geelong.

2008 will also see the first year that businesses can team up with schools in a community float grant program, allowing local organisations to sponsor school floats and give schools the opportunity to make the biggest and best floats seen since the parade’s inception!

Above: Schools can still take part in Gala Day by applying for a grant to build a fantastic float!

The event will continue the tradition of raising funds for the Geelong Hospital, with this year’s proceeds going to the redevelopment of the new Emergency Department.

Chair of the Gala Board, John Frame, says that the move to a weekend is an exciting change.

“We hope that by holding Gala Day on a Saturday that a greater number of people within our community can get involved, join in the fun and most importantly, support our hospital,” he says.

“The new day will help to ensure that the Gala tradition can continue well past it’s 100th anniversary in eight years time.”