High River Celebrates 40th Santa Claus Parade with Netflix Film Crew

The annual Santa Claus Parade in High River, Alberta, drew large crowds on December 1, 2023, as the town celebrated its 40th anniversary of this cherished holiday tradition. The event took on a festive flair with snow falling throughout the night, creating a picturesque backdrop for the parade, which attracted the attention of a Netflix film crew shooting the upcoming holiday film, The Bodyguard.

Residents and visitors lined Main Street to witness the vibrant display of floats, including one featuring the cast of the film. This year’s parade showcased dozens of floats, fire pits, and complimentary food and beverages, culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus himself. The Santa Claus Parade began in 1985 when a local man organized a small gathering for his wife, who adored Christmas. Over the years, the event has grown significantly, largely due to the dedication of numerous volunteers.

Joyce Barton, a longtime attendee, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “The Santa Claus Parade is the best event in High River. You just have to experience it to experience joy.”

The Bodyguard, which is currently in production, features a star-studded cast including Leighton Meester, Jared Padalecki, Andie MacDowell, and WWE superstar C.M. Punk. The film’s presence at the parade not only added glamour but also highlighted the community’s festive spirit.

The combination of local tradition and Hollywood glamour created a unique atmosphere that resonated with attendees. The successful integration of a film shoot into a community event exemplifies the growing intersection of entertainment and local culture, showcasing how small towns can capture the interest of major production companies.

As the night progressed, families enjoyed the festive spirit and the sense of community that events like the Santa Claus Parade foster. With a successful 40 years behind it, High River’s tradition seems poised for continued growth and enthusiasm in the years to come.