The Dingo Beach Christmas Market was a resounding success, thanks to the incredible efforts of the volunteers who brought this festive family event to life.
The market featured a diverse array of stalls and entertainment, filling the air with holiday cheer and creating a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Santa’s grand arrival was a standout moment, making a spectacular entrance aboard a fire truck, flanked by his cheerful elves and the dedicated Gloucester Rural Fire volunteers. They added a special touch by offering a gift-wrapping Christmas gift.
The event was made even more memorable through the support of the Dingo Beach Store and Hotel, alongside the generosity of local residents who donated to ensure a truly festive experience for everyone.
A heartfelt highlight was the success of the Dingo Beach Wishing Tree Appeal, which brought smiles to many children by delivering gifts. The community spirit was truly alive, making this year's celebration one to remember.

Carol singers, performing to the crowds
Queensland Rural Fire Services helping out with Christmas Gift wrapping
Families enjoying meeting Santa
Santa and his elves meeting all the well-behaved children
Gypsea Beachwear, one of the fantastic stalls at the market
Santa arriving in a firetruck
Santa’s elves arriving
Santa greeting attendees upon arrival
Big waves from Santa
Dingo Beach wishing tree provided by Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
Children enjoyed meeting Santa

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The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is in full swing, and with only a couple of weeks left until Christmas, gift wrapping often becomes a last-minute headache. But thanks to the volunteers from Mackay’s SCOPE Club, you can turn that chore into a moment of relaxation – all while supporting local charities.
From now until Christmas Eve, the SCOPE team will be stationed at Home Co between Thrifties and Spotlight, offering their expert gift-wrapping services daily from 9am to 4pm. For just a gold coin donation per gift (please consider donating more for larger items), they’ll transform your presents into beautifully wrapped treasures, with proceeds going to local causes like Chances House (Australian Street Aid Project), Orange Sky, and Mackay Animal Rescue Society (MARS).
What’s even better? Your gifts don’t need to be purchased at Home Co. Bring in your items from anywhere, drop them off in the morning, and return later to collect your perfectly wrapped presents. With a wide selection of colours available, the volunteers can even try to match a theme if you have one in mind. Try to separate gifts for specific people into separate bags, so once they are wrapped, you know who to label them for. 
While you wait, why not take a well-earned break? Nearby K&Co Café offers the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat, giving you a few minutes off your feet during the holiday rush.
Support the community, tick gift wrapping off your to-do list, and enjoy a little holiday cheer – it’s a win-win for everyone!

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Sheryl Cuttriss and Joan Williams were gift wrapping last year at Home Co. SCOPE are wrapping gifts for charity again this year. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Friday 13th December  

Crochet & Conversation  
9am
Join a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals for crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. Everyone is welcome, whether crafting or just enjoying the vibe. Look for the yarn under the shade sails or inside, weather permitting!
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade.

Ceramic Fish Workshop
10am
Paint, construct and add your personal touch to these elements that will be featuring in the Placemaking Mky's Chinatown urban beautification project for the old petrol station in Nelson Street.
57 Wood St, Mackay

Mackay Show Xmas Mega Market  
5pm
The 2024 Mackay Show Christmas MEGA Market is set to take place on December 13th at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds. This event promises to be an enjoyable evening for the entire family! It begins at 5 PM, with a special visit from Santa at 6 PM
Mackay Showgrounds

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Nathan Kennedy LIVE at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 14th December

Christmas Bake Sale
8am
Pop on down for some homemade goodies and Christmas treats
Portside Takeaway & Conveniance

Calligraphy Workshop With The Neighbourhood Hub
1pm
Learn the wonderful calligraphy art with local generational Mackay Chinese family, Lyla and Mark Shew. Learn why these prayer cards are made for the Chinese New Year and make your own, or contribute to the #PlacemakingMkyChinatown project leading into Chinese New Year + Spring & Lantern Festival for the 29th Jan - 12th Feb, 2025.
$10 p/p for materials @ Mackay Masonic Centre – please bring cash.
57 Wood St, Mackay

Pickleball Mackay Christmas Party
3pm
Pickleball Mackay invites everyone to a festive season celebration to mark an incredible year with its amazing pickleballers. Join in for an evening of fun, food, and, of course, plenty of dinking!
125 Kippen Street

Twilight Pinnacle Markets
4pm
Mighty Fungi AU welcomes you to a world of fresh, local goodness. Offering a variety of mushrooms, honey, and more, Mighty Fungi AU focuses on providing high-quality, locally sourced products.
37 Sapphire Ct, Mackay

Sunday 15th December  

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Epoxy Resin Nibbles Set
2pm
Participants are invited to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of creativity while crafting a beautiful epoxy resin nibbles board and wine glass set. Creations will need at least 24 hours to cure, with collection details provided during the workshop. Hosted by Michelle, the session includes all art supplies—just bring yourself. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Ages 16 and 17 must be accompanied by a participating adult, and the workshop is not suitable for those under 15. Seats are limited, and bookings are essential.
The Creative Art Studio by Michellemdv Designs

Al’s Rock & Roll
5-7pm
Enjoy dinner, a cold beer, and incredible rock and roll tunes by the talented Al at the Goosies…A perfect night of music, food, and fun awaits!
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Christmas Light Ride
6.30pm
Cycling enthusiasts are invited to a festive and social ride to light up the night in celebration of the season. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes and attire with tinsel, baubles, stars, and lights, with helmets being a mandatory part of the dress-up. The ride will maintain an average pace of 23km/hr. An updated map of Mackay's festive lights will be shared in this post, so stay tuned!
Corry Cycles

Tuesday 17th December  

MKY City Heart Collective Meeting
5.15pm
The Mackay Chinatown Project, set for January 2025, is calling for passionate individuals to get involved and transform the streetscapes of Mackay's CBD. Join a dynamic group of like-minded contributors eager to inspire change. With exciting activations, creative ideas, and bold plans on the horizon, the upcoming team meeting offers an opportunity to discuss and reimagine the city centre.
Moss On Wood

Wednesday 18th December  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Explore A Gym
9am
Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a non-structured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child
5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay

Thursday 19th  December  

Kids Xmas Watercolour
10am
This Christmas school holidays, kids 6+ and their guardians can join a fun workshop. Children can attend alone, or guardians may join in. The session includes a live demonstration, practice time, and guidance to create personalized A4 watercolour artworks (Festive Llama or Gingerbread House). It's a fun, group-friendly session with beginner-friendly instructions. Bring a water bottle; no snacks provided. Limited seats available, bookings essential.
Shop 1, 3 Ungerer St , Mackay

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

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The Bowen Community Centre, in partnership with Sally the Support Worker and Kristy from MADEC, hosted a lively social inclusion event that brought the community together and showcased local services.

The event featured pop-up shops from various agencies, offering resources, giveaways, and engaging activities with attendees welcoming Housing Older Women Support Services (HOWSS) and Footprints, who provided chocolates and essential housing information. OT4U Occupational Therapy offered practical resources, while Interjobs Recruitment Agency charmed attendees with creative coffee cups and brochures.

Grays Bay was the perfect backdrop for a paddle board demonstration by the local group, showcasing their regular Saturday activities. Stella Life delighted participants with gift bags, and Ferros Care helped attendees prepare for summer with fans and seasonal resources. Bowen State High School's guidance counsellor, Lauren, proudly represented the school with a wealth of information about its achievements.

Flexicare impressed with their resources and brochures, while Michael from PCYC ensured young attendees left with exciting freebies. A special congratulations goes to Sam Walten, who won the paddle board family hire package.

The two-hour event attracted over 100 participants of all ages, celebrating connection and inclusivity. With vibrant displays, engaging activities, and collaborative efforts, the event exemplified the power of community spirit.

The Bowen Community Centre, along with its partners and contributors, extends its gratitude to all who participated, making the event a resounding success.

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This Friday festive shoppers from across the region are invited to participate in the sparkling returning of the Twilight Christmas Markets which are due to take over the main street of Proserpine.

Discover a variety of market stalls, delicious food, and live entertainment.

Kids can enjoy free face painting and complimentary train rides, while Santa Claus makes a special appearance. Plus, try your luck with the Ham Wheel and enter the fun Christmas raffle for a chance to win great prizes!

The idea for rekindling this much-loved event came about when Local Cafe owner Gabby Sinclair, had customers come into her cafe Deja Brew mentioning how nice it would be to have the Twilight Markets return.
So along with guidance from Tarnia Patton, founder of the Proserpine Community Markets, and the help of a few friends, the Twilight market has made its inaugural return to Proserpine on the 13th December 2024.
Lots of local businesses have joined together to recreate the magic of the previous twilight market held in Proserpine.
It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends. Don’t miss out, get ready for Christmas with the Proserpine Twilight Markets.
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What: Twilight Christmas Markets
When: 13th December, 5 – 9 pm
Where: Main Street Proserpine

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Lace up your dancing shoes and find a crown because SOS will transform the Airlie Beach Hotel into Dancing Queen central across three free shows this December!
One of the nations most treasured and celebrated ABBA Tribute Shows, SOS, will grace the stage of the Airlie Beach Hotel once again to perform iconic tunes like Chiquitita, I Have a Dream, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! and of course, Dancing Queen.
In September of this year, SOS ignited the Airlie Beach Hotel with their energetic and captivating performance with Band Manager, Sam Bennett adding how much the band adores the seaside township.
“We always love our trip to Airlie Beach itself, it’s a well-deserved break in the sunshine from the very unpredictable Melbourne weather,” shared Sam.
“Everyone is always on holiday time there and it’s very easy to perform to a crowd that is there either on holiday or living that holiday lifestyle.”
A band renowned for their stage presence and contagious vibes, SOS have been both performers and ABBA addicts for many years, with audiences across the country falling in love with the band’s ability to recreate the sound, music and look of the Swedish pop sensation.
Armed with both fabulous outfits, outstanding vocal talents, iconic ABBA dance moves and Swedish accents to match, SOS perfectly perform a show that is both exciting to witness and even more exciting to be part of.
“I think doing an ABBA tribute show is the same thing as theatre, you’re performing as a character,” added Sam.
“We perform as Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Benny and Björn, we are a character, we have a story and a history - we all have our own connection to these songs, both in reality as performers, but also in characters.”
SOS will transport audiences back in time with the 70s sounds of disco beats to create an energetic dance party like no other, just in time to match the festivities and lively atmosphere of the silly season!
In an exciting addition, the Airlie Beach Hotel’s dazzling dance floor will be a hive of activity with the community invited to bust a move and have a groove on Friday 20 December as well as Saturday 21 December and Sunday 22 December from 2pm to 5:30pm!
“It’s always a fun and high energy afternoon, so if anyone is even remotely near Airlie Beach Hotel, please come down!”
Although you should expect to be drawn to the dance floor for the entire performance, table bookings are also available for either Friday, Saturday or Sunday afternoon with the Airlie Beach Hotel inviting you to come along and witness the music of ABBA come alive through the talents of SOS!

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What: SOS ABBA Tribute Show.
When: Friday 20, Saturday 21, and Sunday 22 December from 2pm to 5:30pm.
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.
More Information: thepubairliebeach.com.au/

Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to SOS, a high energy ABBA show this December!

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The festive spirit shone brightly on Saturday, December 7th, as Murroona Gardens hosted its much-anticipated 2024 Community Christmas Carols.
Held at the Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre in West Lane, the event brought together families, friends, and locals for a magical evening filled with music, community, and holiday cheer.
The atmosphere was nothing short of enchanting as attendees gathered to celebrate the season. The night featured a wonderful selection of carols, festive activities for all ages, and a variety of holiday treats, making it a truly special occasion for everyone.
One of the highlights of the evening was the Christmas Carols Raffle, which offered an array of fantastic prizes. With tickets available for just $2 each or three for $5, attendees had the chance to win while supporting efforts to make Christmas extra special for the residents of the Murroona Gardens care community. The raffle was drawn during the event, adding an extra element of excitement to the night.
The event was made even more memorable by the warm community atmosphere, with locals coming together to celebrate the joy of the season. With festive music in the air and smiles all around, this year’s Community Christmas Carols at Murroona Gardens was undoubtedly one of the most memorable yet.
Mayor Ry Collins said: “I had a great night out in Bowen last night full of fantastic Christmas festivities and community spirit”.

“The team at Murroona Gardens turned on the lights and turned up the music opening their facility for the community Christmas carols.

“It was great to see so many families in attendance as well as many of the elderly residents.”

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Get ready for the ultimate holiday celebration! Christmas Actually, the five-star festive smash, returns to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on December 14th and 15th, promising to be the perfect start to your Christmas season.
Led by Australian cabaret legend Libby O'Donovan OAM, this all-star cast brings the beloved holiday film Love Actually to life with an unforgettable mix of music, comedy, and charm.
Relive the magic of Christmas with iconic songs by Mariah Carey, The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, and more, performed by a star-studded lineup including Joshua Robson (Phantom of the Opera), Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves), and Joseph Naim (Come From Away, The TEN Tenors).
A rockstar band of Australia’s finest musicians will bring these festive hits to life in spectacular fashion.
Filled with quirky moments, nativity lobsters, and plenty of laughs, Christmas Actually is the ultimate feel-good show of the season. It’s a festive treat for all ages!

WHAT: Christmas Actually
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: December 14–15
Tickets: $53–$69

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Friday 13 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm–8pm)

Saturday 14 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sex & Chocolate (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)

Sunday 15 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sex & Chocolate (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm–9:30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)

Thursday 19 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)

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December

13         FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Cannonvale Library, from 10am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14         Book Launch, Beach Book Boutique, Airlie Beach, from 11am
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15         Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
22         Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29         Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
30         Dune Rats, Magnums Airlie Beach, from 7:30pm
30         New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, & Collinsville Showgrounds, from 8:30pm

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The Whitsunday Carols on the Beach event attracted a vibrant crowd of over 1,000 attendees this year, with clear skies adding to the festive atmosphere.
Event highlights included dazzling roving angels on stilts, playful hula-hooping elves, and the long-awaited return of local kindergarten children performing for the first time in years—a heartfelt moment that quickly became a crowd favourite.
There was also a wide variety of food stalls, offering a mouthwatering selection from waffles to wood-fired pizza, catering to all tastes.
With such a successful event, organisers are already gearing up for next year, promising an even grander celebration that will build on this year’s festive spirit...

The annual Whitsunday Carols on the Beach event was a resounding success, with attendees enjoying an evening of festive fun under clear skies.
Despite initial rain concerns, the event was spared.
"Everyone was obviously very happy that it didn't rain," said Caitlin McLuskey (Mrs Claus) reflecting on the good fortune of weather.
This year's carols featured an exciting mix of entertainment, including roving angels on stilts and hula-hooping elves, which received lots of positive feedback from visitors.
"Quite a few people commented that they really enjoyed the additional entertainment aspects," noted Caitlin.
One of the biggest highlights was the performance by local kindergarten children, who performed on stage for the first time in several years.
"For me, my personal highlight was seeing the little kindy kids get on stage.
“They were just so cute," Caitlin shared.
With food stalls offering everything from waffles to pizza, and more than 1,000 attendees filling the lawn, the event was a true community gathering.
"It was packed, maybe 1,000 to 2,000 people. The lawn was full," said Caitlin.
Plans are already underway for next year's event, promising even more festive cheer.
"We're looking forward to seeing everyone again next year and making it even bigger and better," Caitlin added.

Looking for activities to get yourself in the festive spirit this December?
Here are all the events you need to attend to get Christmas ready!
   • CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMPETITION– enter by 15th December 2024.
   • BOWEN CHRISTMAS STREET PARTY – Friday 29 November, Bowen Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm
   • MURROONA GARDENS CHRISTMAS CAROLS – Saturday 7 December, Murroona Gardens, 6pm
Library Activities:
All four of our regional libraries - Bowen, Collinsville, Cannonvale, and Proserpine - invite you to join in a week of daily self-led Christmas craft activities.
   • 16 - 20 December | 9:00am - 4:30pm SELF LED CRAFT ACTIVITIES No booking required
Proserpine Entertainment Centre:
Live Shows
ANDREWS & BING CHRISTMAS SWING
Friday 6 December 11am
TONI CHILDS: A RETROSPECTIVE
Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm
Sunday 15 December 2pm
CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY: The music of love actually live on stage 7.30pm
Wednesday 18 December  11am & 3pm
MADA’S MAGIC MARVELS
Cinema
7-9 December GLADIATOR II
7-9 December WICKED
19 December - 1 January MOANA 2
19-24 December RED ONE
26 December - 8 January SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 Cinema

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Many people kick off the festive season by settling in to watch Love Actually—a beloved holiday tradition. But this year, why not elevate the experience with Christmas, Actually.
Join the Proserpine Entertainment Centre for a sensational live performance of your favourite tunes from the iconic Love Actually soundtrack. This festive celebration is set to bring the magic of the holiday season to life with a rockstar band featuring some of Australia’s top musicians and vocalists, including Joshua Robson (Phantom of the Opera), Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves), and Joseph Naim (Come From Away, The TEN Tenors).
Led by Australian cabaret icon Libby O’Donovan OAM, this all-star cast will deliver the timeless hits from the beloved holiday classic Love Actually, infused with plenty of charm, comedy, and holiday cheer. It's the perfect way to make your Christmas extra special!
Bursting with nativity lobsters, cinnamon sticks and endless fun, Christmas Actually is the ultimate silly-season starter.
Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out! Be sure to secure your spot by calling the friendly team at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 0494 504 05.
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What: Christmas Actually?
When: Saturday 14th December, 7:30pm & Sunday 15th December, 2pm.
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

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Christmas Actually is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this December!

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The Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to celebrate the holiday season with its mouthwatering Christmas Lunch buffet this Saturday, 7 December, from 12pm to 2:30pm. This festive feast promises a delicious variety of hot and cold dishes to suit every palate.

The Hot Selection includes classic favourites like honey-baked ham with honey mustard sauce, roast lamb with rosemary gravy, and roast chicken pieces with gravy. Indulge in comforting sides such as broccoli and cheese macaroni, garlic and rosemary roasted potatoes, minted steamed vegetables, and freshly baked bread rolls. For dessert, savour traditional Christmas pudding with custard or chocolate cherry pudding.

The Cold Selection offers creamy pasta and smoked potato salads, fresh prawns, curried mango coleslaw, and sweet treats like pavlova, mango and macadamia cheesecake, brandy snaps, ice cream with toppings, and assorted lollies.

Make this Christmas memorable with a delectable meal at the Airlie Beach Hotel!

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This non-alcoholic christmas punch recipe is the perfect holiday drink. It can be made in a big batch for a christmas party or for 1.
If you're hunting for an easy, delicious non-alcoholic Christmas punch, you've found it. Planning a holiday event can be busy enough without having the additional task of preparing and serving drinks, so why not whip this up in advance and your guests can serve themselves!

INGREDIENTS
   • 2 cups Low sugar cranberry juice
   • 1 cup Orange juice
   • 1 cup Pineapple juice
   • 2 cups Sparkling apple juice or cider *see notes for low sugar option
   • 1 cup Ginger ale
   • Orange slices, cranberries, pomegranate seeds and/or cherries for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS
   1. Mix cranberry, orange and pineapple juice in a punch bowl or large jug.
   2. Add sparkling apple juice/cider and ginger ale and mix gently.
   3. When you're ready to serve, add ice and fruit of your choice to garnish.

Notes: For a lower sugar option, use sparkling water or sugar free lemonade instead of sparkling apple juice.

Mindfulmocktail.com

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