Councillors are expected to discuss a report at Tuesday's council meeting which provides them with alternatives to having a fireworks display at the end of its Carols by Candlelight event.

Across the past two years, there has been a notable increase in social media submissions and comments from residents asking the council to not hold fireworks due to environmental concerns, the cost, and the effect on wildlife.

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Last year, councillor Kellie Marsh proposed to cancel the fireworks due to the bushfire risk and the perception in the community, however, they ended up going ahead.

Council staff have detailed the pros and cons of having traditional fireworks, low-noise fireworks, a laser light show or using the $4000 budget towards celebrity entertainment.

Mayor Marianne Saliba said she wanted to see the fireworks stay.

"The Christmas carols is the only event where the council has fireworks," she said. "Many families come to the celebration to see Santa Claus and the fireworks."

Cr Saliba said the fireworks risk was well managed, especially last year when organisers met with the Rural Fire Service to ensure it was safe.

She said people had a lot of notice about the time of the fireworks and could ensure their pet was safe and protected from the noise.

"I don't want to take the fireworks away from the event because kids love them," Cr Saliba said.

Another option is low-noise fireworks, which cost $800 more however are generally considered less spectacular. Those types of fireworks are usually used at stadiums or wedding venues.

The laser light show, which works by emitting coloured beams of light into the sky and are often accompanied by/choreographed to loud music, can be difficult to see if the location and weather conditions are not right.

"In theory, the beautiful, natural environment of Reddall Reserve provides a spectacular location for a high quality laser show. In reality, the wide open space is not at all conducive to a successful presentation of this nature," the report said.

"There are very limited built or natural landforms that can provide adequate containment to 'bounce' the light meaning a significant addition of smoke and haze is required for the lasers to be viewable with any impact at all. This requires complex infrastructure and cost."

The audience would also need to relocate from the stage area, which presents logistic challenges and it could cost between $20,000 - $25,000.

"Public feedback on recent laser light shows in other LGAs has not been positive with viewing issues, lack of impact, lack of a celebratory moment and the substantial increase in costs the predominant concerns," the report said.

Cr Saliba said the alternative low-noise fireworks or laser light show were not economical.

The other option is to cancel the fireworks and use the $4000 usually spent on a higher quality stage program.

The report notes the carols event is largely community-based singers participating on a volunteer basis however with the extra money, the council could attract a higher profile 'celebrity style' performers.

There was a mixed reaction on social media. Many people did not want the fireworks to go ahead as it scared animals.

Shannon McDonald said "no fireworks, not good for animals and a waste of money. Maybe put the money towards more showground rides and entertainment."

Tiffany Williams also did not want fireworks.

"Seen one, seen them all," she said. "Go for a laser show or something different. All the poor animals suffer."

Rhiannon McDonagh said "we really don't really need celebrity performers unless they are Australian based. I am all for no fireworks."

However, there were many who wanted the tradition to remain.

Rod Gallegos said the event would "not be the same without fireworks" and Andrew Faulconbridge's preference was to have the display as "the laser light show at Wollongong was very average".

Michelle Haynes said "fireworks and a laser show would be awesome".

A change to the current display is unlikely to be decided for some months, as the event may not proceed depending on the state government's COVID-19 restrictions for large gatherings.

The council reduced its events budget by $120,000 in anticipation it would have to cancel large events such as Carols by Candlelight, Shellharbour Surf and Skate Festival and Australia Day Breakfast.

However, if large events are permitted then there is the option and budget to hold the event on Friday, December 4.

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