Winter warmer: Willow, 4, and Fraser, 6, with dad Peter Gaw are dressed up for the celebrations. Picture: Matthew Furneaux
WOODEND will be transformed into a winter wonderland this weekend for Christmas in July celebrations.
The Woodend Business and Tourism Association (BATA) president Karen Cousens said the celebration would "warm up Woodend".
"We're trying to create a winter in wonderland feel. It's a relaxed event for the community, for the whole region and for tourists."
Retailers have decked out their shop windows in Christmas themes and will offer sales and promotions, and have street stalls.
Restaurants and cafes will also hold special dinners.
The event is an initiative of Woodend BATA to help stimulate the local economy.
The festivities begin on Friday and end on Sunday.
In Trentham, the town's combined churches committee will hold a Christmas in July dinner on Saturday, July 28.
The celebration will include a performance from the Cool Harmony Choir. It starts at 6.30pm at the Trentham Mechanics Hall. Tickets are $30. Book with Geoff Manning on 54241572.