WHOEVER made the decision to postpone the Carols by the Bay event in Cowes, from the wintry night of Tuesday, December 16 to be able to enjoy the glorious evening weather of Tuesday night, December 20 this week should take a bow.

There’s no doubt the weather made the occasion and as many as 3000 people came out to celebrate.

Most dubbed it Cowes' best-ever carols.

There were many highlights from the 80-strong Sisters and Misters choir showing some great harmonies in numerous loved Christmas carols, to the Cowes Primary School Choir with a memorable version of 'Feliz Navidad', the very talented Imogen Price and her small band with Paul Kelly's 'How to Make Gravy' and ultimately the veteran performers; Rob Watson, John Obee, Steve Gysbers and Mike Foenander of ‘Rock House’ bringing it home; it was a professionally run event with MCs Peter Paul and Natasha Crestani keeping the music coming.

And at the end of the night, sponsored by the Phillip Island RSL, the Bass Coast Shire Council put on a stunning fireworks display during which hundreds of bombs exploded in the air above the Cowes Jetty.

The crowd featured hundreds of family groups, couples sharing a blanket on the ground or deck chairs, kids running around excitedly in Santa hats and other festive attire… it will be the highlight of Christmas for many.