Families Gather for Festive Fun at Rotary Santa Claus Parade

Families and friends filled the streets of Sault Ste. Marie on Saturday for the annual Rotary Santa Claus Parade, a beloved tradition that celebrates the holiday season. Attendees enjoyed a festive atmosphere as they gathered to see Santa Claus and collect candy along the route.

Eight-year-old Liam McCourt was among the excited children eagerly awaiting the parade. With candy and a glimpse of the “Jolly Old Elf” as his top priorities, Liam not only planned to enjoy the sweets he collected but also to share with other youngsters. He attended the event with his grandmother, Nancy Parr, his sister Lily, aged 13, who participated on the float from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School, and family members Heidi Parr and five-year-old Bella Swanson.

The parade held special significance for two-year-old Layne Olar, who celebrated his birthday just a day before the event. Surrounded by loved ones, including his great-grandmother Denise Hoskins and mother Nikita Olar, Layne experienced a joyful moment reflecting the same warmth that Denise felt as a child when attending parades with her own grandmother. “It’s just to see the smiles on their faces,” said Denise, expressing her delight in sharing such experiences with her grandchildren.

Adding to the festive spirit, Tina Grisdale showcased her creativity with handmade Christmas attire, including a crocheted Santa hat and festive mittens. Accompanied by her family, including daughters Amber Desjardins and Megan Grisdale, husband Jim Grisdale, and granddaughter Mikayla Grisdale, Tina fondly recalled attending parades since she was just a year old. “I love Christmas and the community spirit generated by the annual event,” Amber shared, highlighting the enthusiasm that accompanies the parade participants.

The weather presented a unique challenge, with rain and wet snow adding to the atmosphere, although conditions remained mild at approximately 3°C. Schools such as St. Mary’s French Immersion, Superior Heights Collegiate and Vocational School, and St. Mary’s College, along with local businesses including Soo Mill, Service Rentals, OutSpoken Brewery, and Studio Dance Arts, all contributed to the parade, demonstrating a strong sense of community involvement.

As the parade progressed, Santa Claus, the guest of honor, greeted excited children with a simple yet heartfelt “Merry Christmas” and his signature “Ho ho ho,” as his float moved swiftly past the Queen Street and East Street intersection.

Preceding the parade, the inaugural Big Santa Run took place, benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters Sault Ste. Marie. This event added another layer of community engagement to the festive day, highlighting the spirit of giving that characterizes the holiday season.

The Rotary Santa Claus Parade remains a cherished tradition for many, bringing families together and fostering a sense of joy and community spirit that resonates throughout the region.