Santa Claus marches through Downtown for annual parade
Santa Claus saluting the crowd during the parade in Barrie, Ont., on Sat., Nov. 16, 2024 (CTV News/Chris Garry)
The streets of Downtown Barrie were packed Saturday evening for the annual Santa Claus Parade and Noella Tree Lighting Celebration.
It was the 75th anniversary of the parade, which featured 75 floats, the usual bands and groups, a route that spanned from Lakeshore Drive to Dunlop Street, and of course, the big man in red.
“I think after Remembrance Day is done everyone is ready to celebrate,” said Ashley Chappell, supervisor of special events for the City of Barrie. “I think this is the kickoff for a lot of people on the holiday season.”
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The parade route ended in Meridian Place and was followed by the annual lighting of the 30-foot Winter Tree.
There were also plenty of vendors and live music, highlighted by a performance from Muskoka singer/songwriter James Gray.
The festivities were delivered by the City of Barrie, the Downtown Barrie BIA and the Barrie Chamber of Commerce.
“I think that it’s a perfect way for everyone to come down and enjoy the season,” added Chappell. “Everybody really gets excited and gets a little chill when they see the lights on the tree start up. And of course, seeing Santa is what everyone lives for.”
The festivities continued Sunday with a festive market offering plenty of unique holiday gift options and a tree lot where Christmas trees could be purchased. Proceeds from tree purchases supported Hospice Simcoe.
There were also Santa parades in communities that included Alliston, Angus, Bradford, Collingwood and Cookstown this weekend.
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