Up in the clear night sky were Chinese lanterns floating and dimming as the fire burned out.
And right beneath, hundreds of Port Moresby residents gathered for the carols by candlelight at Murray Barracks.
Families, couples, friends, came together as early as 6pm for that one night of joining voices as one into the magic of Christmas.
Various performances included acrobatic display and singing featuring bands, church choir groups and PNG’s known musicians.
Governor for NCD, Powes Parkop, who’s behind the initiative, was at the event to thank those who turned up.
“Our country has gone through a lot this year and despite the countless challenges, we are still together as a nation.
“This event is to strengthen us, give us that uniting feeling,” he said.
The sky opened at around 9pm later that night, but residents braved the showers, choosing candles and carols over home.
Into the night, they sang, Feliz Navidad, Santa Clause is coming to town, Rudolf the red nose deer and more, to be rewarded by Jokema Band at the end.