Timmins celebrates a vibrant Santa Claus parade despite wintry weather

Despite a day-long onslaught of freezing rain and heavy snow that cast doubt on the festivities, the 36th annual Santa Claus Parade illuminated the streets of downtown Timmins on a winter-like Saturday night. The commitment to the community tradition remained unwavering from the outset.

“I woke up this morning and there was a comment about whether or not we’re going to have a parade, and I can only say the show must go on,” said Cory Robin, the executive director of Downtown Timmins (BIA) and the parade’s marshal.

Record-breaking participation, award-winning floats

This year’s parade, themed ‘Lights, Music and Magic,’ was a remarkable community effort that featured a wide array of imaginative entries from a record-breaking 67 participants. The vibrant participation from youth groups, ranging from schools to cadets to dance academies, brought an infectious energy to the route.

“It’s clear how much time, creativity, and hard work goes into these entries,” noted one judge in a BIA news release.

The creativity and craftsmanship on display were formally recognized with the announcement of the parade award winners.

The full list of 2025 award winners is:

Best in Theme: École Secondaire Publique Renaissance

Best Walking Group: Rock & Gold Gymnastic Club

Best Small Entry: Typo-Press Printers Ltd.

Best Large Entry: Rubino’s Petro Canada & Robino’s Esso

Most Spirited: Melissa Kelly Dance Academy & Girones Bourdon Kelly Lawyers

Brightest: Johnston’s Electrical Construction Ltd.

Best Animated: Northern Diamonds Academy of Dance

Most Original: Red Apple

Most Artistic: O’Gorman High School

Judges’ Choice: Alika Sari-Sari Store

Crowd Pleaser: Harley Owners Group Chapter 9998

Cherished tradition for families

For many families, braving the elements to attend the parade is a cherished ritual passed down through generations.

“Oh, I got three kids now and it’s been a tradition,” said Timmins resident Trevor Tobico.

“We always come every year, and I’ve been doing it since I was a kid.”

The spectacle of lights and music was a major draw for attendees.

“Love it. Love all the lights. Love the people. Snow sometimes is nice too,” said Robin Martin from South Porcupine.

Samantha Pecore, who brought her young daughter Kemi from Porcupine, shared the sentiment.

“It always gets us in the holiday spirit,” she said, noting that her favourite part is seeing all the lights and the happy children.

The successful and safe event was credited to the City of Timmins for keeping the streets cleared and sanded and to all emergency service workers.

“With over 1,000 volunteers and parade participants – and a tremendous turnout of spectators who braved the elements – the event stands as a testament to the strong community pride,” said the BIA.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Lydia Chubak

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