Santa Claus is coming to town to mark Oakville parade’s 75th anniversary
Published October 12, 2023 at 12:29 pm
Santa Claus is coming to town next month and he’s got a special reason to celebrate.
This year’s Oakville Santa Claus Parade will mark the 75th anniversary of the popular holiday event when it arrives downtown on Saturday, Nov. 18.
“The Oakville Santa Claus Parade is one of my favourite events that the whole community rallies behind each year to make it successful,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “I can’t wait to see your smiling faces lining the parade route!”
The theme for this year’s star-studded event is all about holiday movies and icons.
Bill Hughes, then President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, organized the first Santa Claus Parade in 1948 to encourage business in downtown Oakville.
The annual holiday event is now organized by a volunteer committee in partnership with the Town of Oakville and the business community.
Oakville residents are encouraged to dress up in their favourite holiday attire and take the free Santa shuttle from the Oakville GO Station. The shuttle runs every five to 10 minutes, starting at 8 a.m.
The parade starts at 9 a.m. Parade goers are encouraged to plan ahead and get a spot along the parade route to take in the sights and sounds of the creative floats.
“The Oakville Santa Claus Parade Committee is excited the community is coming together in celebration of the parade’s milestone 75th anniversary,” said Cathy Duddeck, Oakville Ward 2 Councillor and Santa Claus Parade Committee Chair. “We continue to actively look for participants, sponsors and volunteers to help make this year’s parade extra special for everyone.”
The Oakville Santa Claus parade relies on the support of residents, local businesses, and volunteers to get it off the ground ever year.
The town is seeking sponsorship and any financial contribution to ensure the success of this popular event that brings the community together. Amounts higher than $20 will receive a tax receipt.
The parade is also accepting applications for floats, walking groups, bands, and volunteers for costumed characters and more. The application deadline is Nov. 5, 2023. The best overall float will receive free entry in the 2024 parade.
Kids 10 years of age and younger can also enter a colouring contest to win a chance to ride on a float with Mrs. Claus, who will once again be leading the Oakville Santa Claus Parade as the Grand Marshall.
Download the colouring sheet or pick one up at any of the town’s community centres or Oakville Public Library locations and email a picture of the entry to [email protected]. The contest closes on Friday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m.
For more details about sponsorship, applications, the colouring contest and the event, visit here.
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