Thousands of people, young and old, lined the streets of downtown Toronto to take part in the annual holiday parade.
Contents of the article
The wait was worth it for those who braved the cold Sunday afternoon to see someone special.
Advertisement 2
Contents of the article
Wrapped in tuks, mittens, scarves and their warmest winter coats, thousands of people, young and old, lined the streets of the city center to take part in the annual celebration. The original Santa Claus parade.which has been held in Toronto for 121 years.
Contents of the article
Contents of the article
Before the festivities began, thousands of people donned Santa hats and sneakers to walk the parade route as part of the Holly Jolly Fun Run, a 5-kilometer event that features… fundraising for the parade.
The parade itself started at Christie's Pits and headed east on Bloor Street, passing the Royal Ontario Museum before taking a short detour down Hosking Avenue and around Queens Park to head down University Avenue en route to Wellington Street before ending at St. Lawrence Market.
Your midday sun
Contents of the article
Advertisement 3
Contents of the article
RECOMMENDED VIDEO
We apologize, but this video has failed to load.
A special message from Santa ahead of Christmas
There was no shortage of live entertainment along the route, as the parade featured more than two dozen floats and thousands of marchers, including everything from clowns and dignitaries to dancing soldiers and snowmen, as well as a variety of marching bands that livened up the crowds.
After about an hour of waiting, the man of the hour arrived. On board the float with his sleigh and reindeer, Santa Claus greeted and waved to children and parents, wishing them all a Merry Christmas, which is 32 days away.
“Oh, look at all the smiling faces,” Santa said to a group of children as he walked by. “I love you all. Don't forget to be kind!”
As Santa's float disappeared into the street, many children went home smiling, hoping that on December 25th they would get what they wanted.
Advertisement 4
Contents of the article
Donations for the parade continue
The original Santa Claus Parade returned after a financially difficult 2024, during which organizers asked for donations to help stay afloat.
The organizers began GoFundMewhich set a goal of $250,000. So far, more than $143,000 has been raised, with donations continuing. Donations can also be made through CanadaHelps.
Read more
Contents of the article
