Launceston Christmas carols: Man to face court after allegedly sparking panic with knife at family event

A Christmas carol event in Tasmania descended into chaos on Sunday evening when a man carrying a 30cm knife emerged from the crowd.

Police said the 48-year-old man was sitting among chanting groups at City Park Launceston before displaying a large black-handled knife.

While the people around noticed the gun and quickly moved away from the man, the police intervened immediately.

No one was injured and the Kings Meadow man was taken into custody and will appear in court on Monday morning. He was publicly accused of being illegally armed.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the police.