The Santa Claus Parade

Photos by Alan L Brown - May 2004

Eaton's, Timothy Eaton's famous department store, ran this parade for 78 years when, unable to financially continue it, turned it over to a local volunteer group. On the north-west corner of Queen Street West and James Street, stands this Ontario Heritage Trust plaque which says:

In 1905, Timothy Eaton's department store began the tradition of the Santa Claus Parade. Initially, the parade featured Santa Claus on a horse-drawn cart. The parade has grown in size and splendour to include upside-down clowns, colourful marching bands, mascots, characters in elaborate costumes, ornately-decorated floats and - of course - Santa Claus himself. Over the years, Santa has travelled from the North Pole by train, coach, ice floe, airplane and sleigh pulled by nine reindeer. In 1982, a local volunteer group assumed responsibility for the parade. One of Canada's longest-running traditions, the parade remains focussed on bringing joy to children and continues to enchant and entertain people of all ages.

Plaque Location Co-ordinates: N 43 39.132 W 79 22.848

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