
Photo credit Lenka Gazova
A New Tradition? We sure hope so! — Contributed by Lenka Gazova. The Santa Claus Parade has been spreading joy for over 100 years! Attended by thousands of spectators, volunteers and sponsors each year. Since 1980, the parade has started near Christie Pits Park. This year however, due to ongoing city construction, the organizers decided to change the location. The parade began at Bloor & Parliament Street; the proximity to subway stops and wide terrain made it an ideal location.
Cabbagetown children had a big advantage this year! For most it was just a few minutes walk towards Bloor Street to watch the parade preparations. Marching bands warming up their cane drumsticks, glittering floats getting lined up behind each other, and special tricks by clowns, energized the kids. Some were even lucky enough to get free yummy snacks!
Thousands of people came hours before the official start time of the parade to get the best spot for viewing. For many this was their first Santa Claus parade. Pre-dawn lawn chairs and stockpiles of snacks were available.
Once it officially started, there HE was. Santa Claus with his reindeers spreading holiday cheer, waving to the crowd: “Merry Christmas to all! Ho Ho Ho!”