Get ready, folks! Niagara Falls is about to kick off the holiday season with a bang, and guess who’s leading the charge? None other than the big man in the red suit himself! Sponsored by the Ontario Power Generation, the Santa Claus Parade is shaping up to be a magical extravaganza. And hold onto your sleigh bells because Mayor Jim Diodati, City Council members, dignitaries, Police Chief Brian MacCulloch, and our fearless firefighters are all hopping on the festive sleigh.
Date: Saturday, November 18th at 3:30PM
Location: 5049 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 4E2
Santa Claus Parade, Presented by Ontario Power Generation | 3:30 p.m.
Picture this: Over 50 community groups, bands, floats, characters, performers, and, of course, the jolly man in red will be parading through the streets, spreading cheer like confetti. Rain or shine, this spectacle is happening. No Grinchy weather can stop our holiday spirit.
Niagara Health Foundation Tree Lighting | 5:15 p.m.
But wait, there’s more! Right after the parade, in Centennial Square at City Hall, the Niagara Health Foundation Tree Lighting, sponsored by Alectra, will transform the square into a twinkling wonderland. And here’s the kicker – it’s not just about the lights; it’s about giving back. This lighting ceremony marks the beginning of the Celebration of Lights, an initiative to raise funds for much-needed hospital equipment. So, every twinkle is a gift to our local hospitals.
Santa Claus Meet & Greet, Presented by Niagara Helicopters | 5:30 p.m. (Immediately Following the Tree Lighting)
Hold onto your hot cocoa because the festivities continue! At around 5:30 p.m., Centennial Square becomes the North Pole, where you can meet and greet the man of the hour – Santa Claus! Thanks to Niagara Helicopters, it’s not just a photo op; it’s an experience. Live entertainment, hot chocolate that warms the soul, and delicious bites from food trucks (Cookies by Gia and Soup & Things) are all part of the package, courtesy of Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc.
Route & Road Closures
Now, for the logistics. The parade magic will start on Victoria Avenue at Armoury Street, heading north on Victoria to Valley Way. Then, it’ll take a scenic turn from Valley Way onto Queen Street, wrapping up the spectacle at Centennial Square in front of City Hall.
Convenient parking lots, accessible via parking meters, are strategically located near the parade route for attendees.
So mark your calendars, bundle up in your coziest holiday sweater, and get ready to be swept away by the enchantment of the Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade. It’s not just an event; it’s the spark that ignites the festive season in the heart of our beautiful city. See you there, and let the holiday magic begin!
Date and Time: Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 3:30 p.m.
Location and Route: Starts at Victoria Avenue and Armoury Street, then travels along Valley Way and ends at City Hall in Niagara Falls
Niagara-on-the-Lake Christmas Parade: Jolly Old Saint Nicholas Rides Again
Experience the charm of the Christmas Parade in the historic Old Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake on Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 11 AM to 1 PM. The parade begins at the intersection of King and Centre Street, following a traditional route down Castlereagh, Wellington, Byron/Prideaux, Simcoe, and Queen Streets. Residents and visitors alike can revel in the festive atmosphere as Jolly Old Saint Nicholas and a host of other holiday characters bring the streets to life.
Those eager to participate in the Christmas Parade must complete the entry form by November 24, 2024. With limited parking due to street closures, attendees are advised to plan ahead for a delightful day with family and friends.
Date and Time: Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 11:00 AM.
Location: King and Centre Street, following a traditional route down Castlereagh, Wellington, Byron/Prideaux, Simcoe, and Queen Streets.
Thorold Santa Claus Parade: 30 Years of Festive Tradition
In Thorold, the Santa Claus Parade is not just an event; it’s a tradition that has spanned 30 years. Scheduled for Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the parade is a festive array of community floats, marchers, entertainers, and bands. This year, the theme is “Winter Wonderland,” adding a touch of magic to the holiday season.
The parade begins at the intersection of Collier Road and Sullivan Avenue, traversing east on Sullivan Avenue, continuing to Front Street, and concluding at the intersection of Front Street and Regent Street. Spectators can line the sidewalks along Sullivan Ave and Front Street for the best views.
Date and Time: Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Location: Collier Road and Sullivan Avenue, traversing east on Sullivan Avenue, continuing to Front Street, and concluding at the intersection of Front Street and Regent Street.
Fort Erie Santa Parade: A Joyous Arrival in Fort Erie
Santa Claus is making a grand entrance into Fort Erie on November 18, 2023, starting at 5 PM. The parade route begins at Central Avenue and Jarvis Street. It’s a spectacle that promises to light up the streets and hearts of Fort Erie residents, welcoming the holiday season with warmth and joy.
Date and Time: November 18, 2023, starting at 5 PM
Location: Bridgeburg Historic District, Fort Erie Ontario. Pre Party on Central Avenue and Jarvis Street.
Grimsby Santa Claus Parade: A Nostalgic Journey through Classic Christmas Movies
Continuing the festive fervor, Grimsby’s 66th annual Santa Claus Parade is a timeless tradition that marks the commencement of the holiday season. Scheduled for Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 5:15 p.m., this event is one of the longest-running in the town. Featuring over 90 entries, including community floats, walking groups, and marching bands, the parade promises an evening of festive delight.
The theme for 2023, “Classic Christmas Movies,” sets the stage for a parade that pays homage to beloved holiday films. The procession winds its way from Blessed Spirit Secondary School, travels east along Livingston Avenue and Main Street, and concludes at the Ontario Street intersection in downtown Grimsby. With the parade spanning five hours, attendees are advised to check the weather and dress warmly, and on-street parking is available near the route.
Date and Time: Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 5:15 p.m.
Location: Starts at Blessed Spirit Secondary School, travels east along Livingston Avenue and Main Street, and ends at the Ontario Street intersection in downtown Grimsby.
West Lincoln Claus Parade: A Traditional Evening Extravaganza
The West Lincoln Claus Parade, commencing from the community centre and concluding at the Village Square Mall area, is a proud presentation of a traditional-style evening parade. Set for Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 5:00 PM, the parade promises a delightful showcase of community spirit and festive cheer.
Date and Time: Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 5:00 PM.
Location: West Lincoln Community Centre, 177 West St., Smithville to Village Square Mall, 249 St. Catharines St., Smithville
Pelham Santa Claus Parade: Fenwick Welcomes the Holidays
Hosted by the Fabulous Fenwick Lion Club, the Pelham Santa Claus Parade is a heartwarming event for all. Starting at Bethany Christian Reformed Church on Balfour Street, the parade winds its way through the downtown core of Fenwick to Church St. The grand finale takes place at Centennial Park, creating a festive culmination of holiday spirit.
Set for Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 03:30 PM, this parade is a community celebration that adds a touch of magic to Fenwick’s holiday season.
As the holiday season unfolds, these Santa Claus Parades in and around Niagara promise a joyous start to the most wonderful time of the year. Gather your loved ones, bundle up in festive attire, and immerse yourself in the magic of these heartwarming events that bring communities together in the spirit of Christmas.
Date and Time: December 9, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 03:30 PM
Location: 1040 Balfour St, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0
Merry and Bright: Welland Santa Parade & Tree Lighting
Downtown Welland becomes the epicenter of holiday festivities with the Welland Santa Claus Parade, Civic Square Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a Merry Chili Christmas – a trifecta of events that promise merriment for all.
Set against the backdrop of Civic Square, the festivities kick off on Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 5 PM to 8 PM. Following the parade, Santa Claus and Mayor Campion illuminate Welland’s Christmas tree, accompanied by the harmonious tunes of Sing Niagara. Kids can drop their letters to Santa in the dedicated mailbox and engage in crafting activities with the Niagara Art Gallery.
For those with a penchant for chili, a Merry Chili Christmas awaits, featuring free chili samples and a cook-off between Welland’s Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief. The event is a celebration of community and holiday spirit, bringing residents together in the heart of Welland.
Date and Time: Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 5 PM to 8 PM.
Location: Civic Square, Welland
Port Colborne’s Santa Claus Parade: A Luminous Procession of Community Spirit
Port Colborne comes alive with the luminous Port Colborne’s Santa Claus Parade, where local businesses, community groups, schools, and more join forces to light up the streets. Taking place on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 6:30 PM, the parade commences at Port Colborne High School and winds its way to City Hall, creating a magical spectacle for all to enjoy.
Date and Time: Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 6:30 PM.
Location: 211 Elgin St, Port Colborne, ON L3K 3K4