COVID has halted usual carols by candlelight events in Albury-Wodonga this year.
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Albury will not have its stage show, while Wodonga's Christmas celebration will now be streamed.
Albury mayor Kevin Mack said: "Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we won't be able to host Carols by Candlelight in its traditional format this year.
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"However, we are working with our business community in planning an alternative Christmas program that will celebrate the joy of the festive season in an entirely new way for 2020.
"We look forward to announcing the details soon."
Normally thousands pack into QEII Square each December for the carols which were first held by the council in 1977.
Albury City Band secretary Linton Rousseau said it was disappointing but not surprising.
"Obviously we'd like to have them happening because it is a community thing and we're a community band," Mr Rousseau said.
"We're not going to cry about it, but we'd like to hope something can happen."
Mr Rousseau said the band had not been told what the new program may entail.
Meanwhile, organisers of Wodonga's Carols by Candelight have opted to webcast their concert from The Cube on Sunday December 20, rather than cancel.
Co-organiser Jacob Mildren said it was disappointing not to be staging the event at Willow Park but it was hoped a streamed carols would still bring the community together.
"This year Wodonga Carols will be streamed live on YouTube from The Cube," Mr Mildren said.
"You will be able to tune in on your smartphone, iPad, and watch live from the YouTube app on your smart-TV.
"Although we cannot sell candles, we still want to raise all important funds for Albury Wodonga Health.
"This year, we will be starting an online donation portal where you can buy a 'virtual candle' to show your support for our local health service."
Singers, a choir and the Wodonga Brass Band will perform live from 7.30pm to 9pm on the day.