We made this Christmas brighter for 2,500 kids who had a day out they’ll never forget at the Variety Kids Christmas Party.

This year marked the 28th anniversary of the event and first since Covid-19 cancelled the party for the previous 2 years. Brisbane’s event was one of 18 across Australia and New Zealand, which in total benefitted over 35,000 kids living with a disability.

The majority of kids invited to the party came from four groups: critically ill, intellectually impaired, physically impaired and financially underprivileged. With the many families who joined and volunteers who got involved to help out on the day, Brisbane’s Convention & Exhibition Centre was bustling.

Thank you to the amazing volunteers who supported this event.

There was entertainment, rides, food, face painting, crafts, interactive displays, a petting zoo and much more. A Variety Liberty Swing was set up so kids who require a wheelchair could experience the joy of being on a swing. The Variety Kids Choir got an opportunity to sing Christmas carols for the crowd. The kids also got to meet Bluey in a live interactive experience, as well as guests from My Voice and My Kitchen Rules.

The kids got to meet special guest Bluey who performed on stage.

And of course there was one other special guest… Santa Claus! Each child received at least two to three high quality presents from Santa.

This unforgettable event has made an incredible impact in the lives of kids who need it most this Christmas. The smiles on the kids’ faces said it all – it will be a day they will cherish for many years.