Hundreds of families and young believers braved freezing temperatures and high winds, lining Chippewa Street to catch a glimpse of the big elf himself during the city’s annual Santa Claus Parade. The air was filled with anticipation as children, bundled in winter coats, toques and mittens, eagerly awaited the procession. When the parade began, a loud roar rang out from a group of children screaming ‘Merry Christmas’ while grinning and waving to other children across the street. Children share their holiday hopes For nine-year-olds Emma Sheldrake and her friend Renne Clouatre, the parade was a highlight of their holiday countdown. They waved ecstatically when Santa Claus looked over at them with a grin and waved back. “I’m very excited for Christmas,” Sheldrake said. “Being with family and friends is my favourite part.” Both girls laugh that “for the most part” they’ve been well behaved this year as they are start thinking about what could be under their trees when they wake up on Christmas morning. “I’m hoping for dolls (and accessories),” said Sheldrake. “I like the hot cocoa and the cookies,” added Clouatre. A little bit down the street, Finn Woodock-Roy, 9, and sister Violet, 7, are hoping for a fun-filled holiday. “I’m very excited to open gifts and see my family,” Finn said. His sister Violet was captivated by the parade atmosphere. “I like all the people waving at me,” she said, snickering. Centennial-themed celebration This year’s parade, featuring about 45 floats, celebrated the theme ‘100 Years of Christmas in North Bay’, coinciding with the city’s centennial anniversary. One historical float featured posters highlighting significant local events, including 1921 – the first season of the North Bay Trappers, 1934 – the birth of the Dionne Quintuplets, 1963 – NORAD’s North Bay Underground Complex became operational, 2002 – the carousel at the waterfront began operation and 2025 – a 25-year-old North Bay time capsule was opened in March. The procession was a vibrant mix of community spirit and classic holiday characters. North Bay firefighters cranked their horn as they approached, while Mayor Peter Chirico was riling the children up as Santa’s float inched closer and closer. Buddy the Elf was in the Christmas spirit handing out candy canes to young and old while the Grinch followed a bit behind sulking, clearly not in the holiday mood yet. Canada Post workers were collecting letters to Santa and Radar, the North Bay Police Service’s mascot, was waving to everyone from his float. Santa’s grand arrival and future plans The parade culminated with the arrival of its special guests. Christmas tunes and carols were being played from the St. Joseph-Scollard Hall’s Marching Band as flag twirlers led them in synch enthusiastically. Santa and Mrs. Claus were bundled up tight on their sled, with Santa swapping out his traditional red and white hat for a stylish, black top hat With the success of this year’s event, organizers said they’re already coming up with ideas and concepts for next year’s parade. The festive celebrations continue across the region, Timmins held its parade on Saturday night, while Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury both have their own parades running next weekend. RELATED STORIES:
