Carols sung with a military bearing

Rockingham Foreshore is set to be beaming with Christmas spirit on Saturday when the City turns on its lights display and military bands perform carols for more than 3500 people.

Father Christmas will make a special appearance on a motorcycle cavalcade provided by the Military Brotherhood Military Motorcycle Club and escorted by police.

Rockingham RSL member Major Lyndon Jackson said he looked forward to seeing and hearing the Rockingham artists perform in the first half of the gig, which starts at 5pm.

He said the second half would feature a combined ensemble from the Australian Army Band Perth and Royal Australian Navy Band WA, conducted by Major Peter O'Connor.

HMAS Stirling commanding officer Capt. Angela Bond is expected to deliver the Christmas message to the City of Rockingham and join in a tribute to defence force personnel deployed overseas this festive season.

Major Jackson urged families to bring chairs or a rug, picnic, candles and their carolling voices to join in the free event and celebrate Christmas.

Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels, accompanied by 2015 Sports Star winner Holly Barrett, will officially turn on this year's display.

The Christmas Lights display runs from the Peace Pavilion at the foreshore up Railway Parade to Kent Street until Sunday, January 31.