The Christmas tree in the Brisbane Street mall has been installed and decorations depicting trees, presents and stars have been hung from the lamp posts in the CBD.

But there's nothing else more quintessentially Launceston Christmas than to see the lines of children and their families lining St John Street patiently waiting for the start of the Apex Club of Launceston Christmas Parade, which took to the streets on Saturday.

The Apex Club of Launceston is the epitome of community spirit, with a group of only eight volunteers the group that puts on the Christmas Parade each year.

The event is a staple for young and young at heart and is part of a number of Christmas celebrations in Launceston.

Last year, the Christmas Parade was on the brink of cancellation after the Apex Club was unable to secure the entire funding amount needed to host the event. Christmas is a time for celebrating with family and friends and events like the Launceston Christmas Parade is one way that families can come together without pressure of cost. With many people feeling the pinch this year, it's vital that events like the Christmas Parade are supported by local government and other bodies to help provide festive cheer. Bringing Christmas to those who are struggling is a key tenet of The Examiner's Empty Stocking Appeal, which aims to raise funds for four charities: the Salvation Army, City Mission, the Launceston Benevolent Society and St Vincent de Paul.

This year we set ourselves an ambitious target of $90,000 but with only $27,000 so far secured - we are a long way off that goal.

While we understand everyone is feeling the pinch, every dollar counts and we'd like everyone to consider donation. All funds raised by the appeal are distributed between the four Tasmanian charities, which they then use themselves to provide vital support and programs to people in need.

Bank transfer: BSB 035822, Account 011443538. Using BPAY: Biller Code 49429, reference 0110 30091 9001443538 8.